Simple End Table Plans

Build a Smith Side Table

Want simple end table plans? You got it! This table is fast and easy to construct using off-the-shelf lumber or pallet boards! Featuring angled braces at each opening, and a roomy shelf and top, this table will show off your building skills with pride!

simple end table plans_Copy

Materials:

  • 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws
  • 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
  • 1-1/4″ brad nails
  • Wood glue
  • Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
  • Finishing supplies (primer & paint, or stain, sealer)

Lumber:

  • 4 – 1×2 at 8′
  • 2 – 1×4 at 8′
  •  3 – 2×2 at 8′

Cut List:

  • 4 – 2×2 at 19-1/4″ – Legs
  • 8 – 2×2 at 20″ – Frame Stretchers
  • 8 – 1×2 at 15-1/4″ – Braces
  • 11 – 1×2 at 20″ – Shelf Slats
  • 7 – 1×4 at 24-1/2″ – Top

simple end table plans

Step One

Cut the pieces for the legs. Cut the taper (optional) using a jigsaw or bandsaw.

 simple end table plans_Legs

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the stretchers. With the pocket hole jig set for 1-1/2″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of each piece. Set four of the pieces aside, and attach the remaining pieces to the legs using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the braces. Mark the position for the angles by measuring down from the top of the piece at the dimension indicated then drawing a diagonal line from the top corner of the piece to the opposite corner of the drawn line. Cut the angles using a jigsaw, a bandsaw, or a miter saw. With the pocket hole jig set for 3/4″ material, drill pocket holes in each end. Note that there will be four right pieces and four left pieces. Secure the pieces to the stretchers as shown using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. the front face of the braces will be flush with the front faces of the stretchers. Set the other four braces aside.

 simple end table plans_Side Frames

Step Three

Cut the pieces for the shelf and drill pocket holes in each end. Locate the first piece 2-3/8″ in from the outside of the legs, then secure to the stretcher using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. Install the remaining slats spacing them approximately 1″ apart then secure using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws.

 simple end table plans_Slats

Step Four

Attach the remaining stretchers to the legs using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws. Attach the remaining braces using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws.

 simple end table plans_Stretchers

simple end table plans_Braces

Step Five

Cut the pieces for the top. The end pieces will overhang by 3/4″ at the side, top and bottom. Secure the first piece in place using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails, then secure the remaining pieces in place. Use a router with a decorative bit to cut an edge in the top.

 simple end table plans_Top

Finish as desired.

 

These simple end table plans are perfect for beginners. Have a request for a plan? Contact me at cher {at} designsbystudioc {dot} com!

Originally posted 2013-11-13 08:00:01.