Build a Small Ladder End Table
An Easy to Build Table for Any Room
This cute little end table is the perfect place for books, a potted plant, a lamp, etc., and is constructed to look like a small ladder. The plans to build a small ladder end table feature angled legs and a shelf, plus it uses minimal tools and materials which makes it a very economical project! In fact, regular countersunk screws can be substituted with panhead lag screws (like Spax Powerlag <– affiliate link!) for a modern look!
Materials:
- 2″ screws (<– affiliate link!)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grits)
- Finishing supplies (stain and sealer or paint)
Lumber:
- 1 – 1×3 at 8′
- 1 – 1×12 at 4′
Cut List:
- 4 – 1×3 at 17-15/16″- Legs
- 1 – 1×12 at 12″ – Top
- 1 – 1×12 at 16-7/16″- Shelf
Notes About the Project:
- Sand all pieces prior to assembly – it makes finishing easier!
- Pre-drill the holes for the screws to avoid splitting
Other Plans to Build Small End Tables:
Step One
Cut the pieces for the legs to length, then mark and cut the angles. The angles are 10° and can be cut using a miter saw or a jigsaw. If using a jigsaw, make a mark 7/16″ down from the top edge on one side of the board and draw a diagonal line to the opposite corner. Cut along this line. Repeat for the other end!
Step Two
Cut the piece for the top. Pre-drill the holes in the top for the screws (2″ long!), apply glue to the top edge of the leg and drive the screws. The outside face of the leg should be flush with the outside edge of the top.
Step Three
Mark the position for the shelf screws on the legs, 4″ up from the floor. Pre-drill the holes for the screws. Apply a bead of glue on the edge of the shelf and position it on the leg. Drive the screws (2″ screws) through the holes into the edge of the shelf.
Here’s a little trick if the table wobbles and the legs don’t rest evenly on the floor: Loosen all of the screws for the top and the shelf. Stand the table on a flat, even surface and tighten the screws by hand until snug.
Finish the table as desired!
This table would also make a great bedside table or as a stand for plants on a patio or deck! Have questions about the plans to build a small ladder end table? Leave a comment below!
Originally posted 2021-07-26 08:00:29.
