Build the Julia Storage Coffee Table

An Easy to Build Open-End Table

The easy to build Julia storage coffee table features open ends where blankets and pillows can be stored or as a hiding place for pets and other assorted small creatures! The table is built using off-the-shelf lumber and few tools, so it makes a fabulous weekend project for any skill level!

Materials:

• 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
• 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws
• 2″ brad nails
• 1-1/2″ brad nails
• Edge banding (<– affiliate link!)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grits)
• Finishing Supplies

Lumber:

• 2 – 1×3 at 6′
• 3 – 2×2 at 8′
• 1 – 4′ x 8′ sheet of 3/4″ plywood

Cut List:

• 4 – 2×2 at 18-3/4″ – Legs
• 2 – 2×2 at 40″ – Lower Stretchers
• 4 – 2×2 at 22″ – Upper and Lower Stretchers
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 26″ x 44″ – Bottom
• 2 – 3/4″ plywood at 16″ x 40″ – Sides
• 2 – 1×3 at 16″ – Vertical Side Detail
• 4 – 1×3 at 18-3/4″ – Horizontal Side Detail
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 26″ x 44″ – Top

Notes About the Project:

• Apply the edge banding to the exposed edges of the top and bottom
• Sand everything before assembly (it’s a total time saver!!)
• Crates or baskets would look great as organized storage inside the table (or build your own!)

Step One

Cut the pieces for the legs, upper stretchers and lower stretchers. With the pocket hole jig set for 1-1/2″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of the stretchers. Secure the lower stretchers to the legs, locating them 1/2″ up from the bottom of the legs, using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws. Set the two upper stretchers aside.

Step Two

Cut the piece for the bottom and cut the notches using a jigsaw. Place the bottom piece between the legs so that it rests on the lower stretchers and secure it using glue and 2″ brad nails.

Step Three

Secure the upper stretchers to the legs using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

Step Four

Cut the pieces for the sides. Set the pocket hole jig for 3/4″ material, and drill pocket holes in the two short edges and one long edge. Secure the sides to the legs and bottom using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. The inside face of the sides (with the pocket holes) will be flush with the inside faces of the legs.

Step Five

Cut the pieces for the side detail. Secure the pieces to the sides as shown using glue and 1-1/2″ brad nails.

Step Six

Cut the piece for the top. The top will overhang by 1/2″ on all sides. Secure the top to the legs, upper stretchers and sides using glue and 2″ brad nails.

Finish as desired.

Have questions about the plans to build a Julia storage coffee table? Leave a comment below!