This project was built and designed by Nathan from Nathan Builds. It’s a sleek and durable cedar coffee table made from simple materials, perfect for elevating any patio or outdoor area.
Using basic tools and cost-effective lumber like 2x4s and cedar fence pickets, Nathan shows how to create a modern piece with clean lines and strong joinery. The result is a long-lasting table with a high-end look and minimal waste.
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Getting Started with the Materials
Nathan begins by selecting clean 2x4s and cedar pickets for the project. Each board is inspected for damage or leftover staples that could interfere with the tools.
To ensure better finish quality, the boards are either planed down or thoroughly sanded. This step helps achieve smoother joinery and a more professional result.
Preparing the Lumber for Assembly
The next step is trimming the 2x4s and pickets to consistent dimensions. Trimming also helps square the boards and remove rough edges from the factory.
Uniform sizing is especially important for the slats, which will make up the table’s top surface. Nathan uses quality offcuts to minimize waste and keep the visual appearance consistent.
Measuring and Cutting the Frame Components
With the boards prepped, Nathan cuts the vertical and horizontal leg pieces. A stop block setup helps maintain identical lengths for the repeat cuts.
While a table saw is preferred for speed and precision, miter and circular saws also work well for these cuts. The key is consistency and clean, straight edges.
Building the Leg Assemblies
The leg pieces are joined using pocket hole screws and outdoor-rated wood glue. This combination provides strength and long-term durability, especially for use in exposed environments.
Assembly is done directly on the table saw surface, which offers a flat and stable platform. This makes it easier to line everything up and check for square.
Installing the Tabletop Stretchers
Next, the long and short stretchers that support the tabletop are cut and installed. Each stretcher is positioned for a snug fit and double-checked for alignment.
Glue and screws are used again to hold the structure together securely. Nathan adjusts spacing as needed to ensure an even and balanced frame.
Laying Out and Gluing the Slats
Before gluing the top slats, Nathan dry fits each board to finalize spacing and orientation. He makes sure that the concave sides of the pickets face down, which helps with water drainage.
Rather than using nails, he relies entirely on wood glue and clamps. This creates a clean look without visible fasteners, while still offering solid holding power.
Trimming and Finishing the Table
Once the glue has cured, the ends of the slats are trimmed for a clean and even edge. Final sanding removes any rough spots and blends joints smoothly.
Plastic feet are added to the bottom of each leg to elevate the table slightly and keep it protected from standing water. This small detail can make a big difference in long-term durability.
Wrapping Up the Project
The completed table is strong, clean, and ready for use outdoors. Its modern profile makes it an attractive choice for patios, decks, or backyard seating areas.
With just a few hours of shop time and a modest material list, Nathan shows how to create something practical and good-looking. It’s a smart project that balances function and design.
Want to See the Full Build?
Nathan’s plans:
- Rough plans: https://bit.ly/CedarCoffeeTablePlans
- SketchUp: https://bit.ly/CedarCoffeeTableSketchUp