This space-saving couch side table designed by DIYTyler. This table slides under the base of your couch and over the armrest, making it a clever alternative to traditional side tables.
Materials and Tools
- Wood (Ash recommended)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Wood dowels
- Construction adhesive (Liquid Nails)
- Clamps (Bessy frame clamps)
- Miter saw
- Table saw
- Band saw
- Router
- Sander
- Measuring tools (tape measure, squares)
- Felt pads (for protecting floors)
Step 1: Milling the Wood
Start by milling down your pieces of Ash to the desired thickness. Using a digital wixie gauge on your planer can help ensure precise measurements, although it’s not strictly necessary for woodworking. Once milled, move over to the table saw to rip down the pieces for the legs and the base of the table.
Step 2: Creating the Base
Begin with the base of the table. Cut 45-degree angles on all four sides of the base pieces. Glue them together using Bessy frame clamps. Allow it to cure before proceeding.
Step 3: Adding Splines
Once the glue has set, use a spline jig to create spline slots in the corners of the base. This will add extra strength to the joints. Cut small splines from offcuts of Ash and glue them into the slots. After the glue cures, flush cut the splines and sand them down.
Step 4: Making the Legs
For the legs, glue blocks in place that will allow you to make 45-degree cuts for the final leg lengths. Measure the angle needed for the legs, which is approximately 23 degrees, and cut accordingly. This step requires precision, so take your time to set everything up accurately.
Step 5: Gluing the Leg Portions
After cutting, glue the leg sections together and clamp them in place. It’s important to ensure that the spread of the legs remains consistent for a stable table. Once glued, set them aside to cure.
Step 6: Cutting the Tabletop
Now it’s time to cut the top of the table. Use the table saw to rip it down to width and cut it to final length. You might need to experiment with clamping methods to hold everything together securely as you glue the top to the legs.
Step 7: Final Assembly
Use construction adhesive to ensure a strong bond between the tabletop and the legs. Hot glue can be used on offcuts to provide even clamping pressure. Once everything is assembled, use dowels to reinforce the joints and ensure stability.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
After assembly, use a router to create a subtle round-over on the edges of the table. Sand the entire piece up to 220 grit for a smooth finish. For the final touch, apply a finish such as Rubio Monoco, but choose a color that suits your taste. Felt pads can be added to the bottom to protect your floors.
Conclusion
This DIY space-saving couch side table is not only functional but also adds a touch of elegance to your living space. Enjoy the convenience of having everything you need right at your fingertips while relaxing on your couch!