How to Make a Coffee Table

Try learning how to make a coffee table to serve as the perfect piece of furniture in any room. Wood tables are a versatile and functional, whether they are side tables, coffee tables or dining room tables. For the beginning woodworker who wishes to tackle a table project, a coffee table is just the right size.

Choose The Plan
A construction plan for a coffee table will give you an idea of what the final product will look like and also provide measurements, number of pieces and detailed instructions for cutting and assembly. Once you've picked one of the wooden tables to make, go ahead download the plans.

Lumber
The type of wood you choose for the coffee table is up to you. A lot will depend on what look you want. For a painted wooden coffee table, pine is fine, but, if you want to stain it, go for oak or birch. When you've cut all the pieces of wood to the specified measurements, sand each piece down until it is smooth.

Build The Coffee Table
As with all woodworking projects, having a checklist of steps can help keep the project on the right track:

• Start making the coffee table by screwing in the top rails to the table top. Add corner supports using screws.
• Move to the table legs, chiseling each one to fit better against the bolt head.
• After clamping each leg to the top rails at each corner, drill a hole through the corner support and leg.
• Insert the bolts and tighten them up. If you want to add casters or other embellishments, such as molding, now is the time to do so.

Stain Or Paint
Once the table is assembled, you can stain or paint it accordingly. Plan on staining the wood at least twice, and more times for a dark rich stain. Paint should also go on in two coats for best results. If you want to protect the coffee table surface from overuse, consider coating the table top with a clear gloss.