How to Build a Side Table

A Chunky Side Table Inspired by a Catalog Retailer

A little over a year ago, I built a coffee table similar to one found in a high-end catalog. The catalog price was $399 – yikes! I built the coffee table for about $50. Now it is time for matching end tables. The end tables in the catalog run $199 each and I built two of these beauties (yes, two!) that are a tad bit bigger at $30 for the pair!!

how to build a side table

how to build a side table finishing

The plans for the coffee table are easy to build. I drew up the plans for the end tables myself in order to customize the size to fit my needs. The construction method is quite a bit different, also. The plan drawings are at the end of the post.

Materials:

  • Four – 2×4 at 8′ (stud length is fine also)
  • One – 4×4 post at 8′ (these will be ripped down 3″ x 3″)
  • Kreg jig and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
  • Stain or paint and sealer

I started by cutting all of the lumber to length with the miter saw. These tables will each measure 18″ x 24″ x 20″.

how to build a side table assembled top

 

While I ripped the posts down to 3″ x 3″ on the table saw, the pocket holes were drilled with the Kreg jig set for 1-1/2″ material.

All of the pieces were sanded before assembly. At the same time, I assembled the table tops using glue, 2″ pocket hole screws, and clamps.

how to build a side table sanding

how to build a side table sanded top

I attached the shorter apron to the legs using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws. Because this piece is so short, I used a close-quarter drill to get into the tight space.

how to build a side table side

 

Next, I attached the longer aprons to the legs to connect everything together. After checking for square, I added the center support.

how to build a side table assembled frame

 

Last, I placed the table top face down, centered the leg assembly on it, and drilled screws through the pocket holes in the aprons and support into the top.

how to build a side table top

how to build a side table top secured

The tables were stained with Minwax stain in Provincial. After the stain was dry, I sealed the tables with Rust-Oleum’s Ultimate Polyurethane in Satin.

how to build a side table stained

how to build a side table completed

Wow! Fantastic work… Cheap, too!! (Featured with a lamp made using a liquor bottle!)

how to build a side table finished

how to build a side table with lamp

Plans to build the side tables:

Start by cutting all of the pieces to length. Drill pocket holes in the pieces as shown with the Kreg jig set for 1-1/2″ material. Attach the shorter aprons to the legs using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

how to build a side table legs side

 

Attach the longer aprons with glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws. After checking for square and making any necessary adjustments, attach the support in the center of the longer aprons using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

how to build a side table frame assembly

how to build a side table center support

Assemble the table top as shown using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws. Attach to the leg assembly using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws through the pocket holes drilled in the aprons and support.

how to build a side table top diagram

how to build a side table top secured drawing

If you have any questions about how to build a side table, leave a comment below!

Originally posted 2012-08-10 08:00:01.