How to Build a Basic Wood Table

A basic wood table is an easy project for any do-it-yourselfer. Instead of paying for expensive furniture, you can make your own custom-designed wooden table for only the price of some lumber. To save even more money, an old door or desk can be reused as the top of a new table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Decide how big you want your wood table to be. Measure the available space to be sure the table will fit.

2

Mark off the dimensions of your tabletop on a 1 1/2-inch thick plank of wood. Use an electric saw to cut along the markings. Cut four smaller pieces of wood to be the table's legs. If you are making a large table, cut the legs at least 2 inches wide to give the table added stability.

3

Sand down all of the wood pieces with a belt sander. This will create a smooth surface for painting or staining.

4

Set an L bracket on edge of one of the leg pieces and use a pencil to mark where the screw holes line up. Repeat this for each of the four legs. Use an electric drill to make holes where you have made your marks. Attach the legs to the bracket with wood screws. Drill holes in the tabletop and affix the open end of the L brackets to the bottom of the table.

5

Use a soft, damp cloth to apply a coating of stain to the entire surface of your wood table. Apply the stain in a circular motion, going along with the grain of the wood. Let the table dry overnight.

6

Apply a layer of wood varnish with a sponge or paintbrush. Allow the varnish to dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat. Let the table dry completely for 48 hours before moving it or putting anything on top of it.