How To Make Coffee Tables

Coffee tables are a versatile piece of furniture that can be used in any room in your home. They can be used as a place to put your feet up, store magazines and books, or even serve as a makeshift dining table. If you're looking for a way to add some style to your home, making your own coffee table is a great option.

In this article, we will show you how to make a coffee table using basic woodworking tools. We will cover everything from choosing the right materials to finishing the table. So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, follow along, and we will help you create a beautiful and functional coffee table.

Materials You'll Need

1 sheet of 3/4-inch plywood (4 feet by 8 feet)
1 sheet of 1/2-inch plywood (4 feet by 8 feet)
4 legs (each leg should be 18 inches tall and 3 inches wide)
Wood glue
1-inch wood screws
Sandpaper
Finish of your choice (paint, stain, or polyurethane)

Tools You'll Need

Circular saw
Drill
Countersink bit
Clamps
Sander

Step 1: Cut the Plywood

The first step is to cut the plywood. For the top of the table, you will need to cut a piece of 3/4-inch plywood that is 4 feet by 2 feet. For the bottom of the table, you will need to cut a piece of 1/2-inch plywood that is 4 feet by 2 feet.

Step 2: Attach the Legs

Next, you will need to attach the legs to the bottom of the table. To do this, apply a generous amount of wood glue to the top of each leg and then attach it to the bottom of the table. Make sure that the legs are evenly spaced and that they are perpendicular to the table.

Step 3: Secure the Legs with Screws

Once the legs are attached, you will need to secure them with screws. To do this, drill a pilot hole through each leg and into the bottom of the table. Then, drive a 1-inch wood screw through each pilot hole.

Step 4: Countersink the Screws

Once the screws are in place, you will need to countersink them. To do this, use a countersink bit to drill a small hole around each screw. This will help to hide the screws and give the table a more finished look.

Step 5: Sand the Table

Once the screws are countersunk, you will need to sand the table. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and then gradually move to a finer-grit sandpaper. Sand until the table is smooth and free of any splinters.

Step 6: Finish the Table

The final step is to finish the table. You can choose to paint, stain, or polyurethane the table. If you are painting the table, be sure to apply a primer first. If you are staining the table, be sure to test the stain on a scrap piece of wood first to make sure you like the color.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now successfully made your own coffee table. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that will last for years to come.