How to Build a Coffee Table

1. Understand what makes a table of any kind. This knowledge helps you understand the process
of building your new coffee table. Any table is composed of 3 parts - a top, apron or stringers and
legs.

2. Begin with the top. The easiest top to make is from .75-inch (.19 cm) plywood. The plywood
can have a finished side that is made from just about any veneer you choose, from pine to
mahogany or cherry.
Cut the plywood to the size and shape you need. Most coffee tables are rectangular.
Generally, plywood edges are rough. Therefore, you will want to add banding or edging to the
outer perimeter. Edging, with thin self-adhesive veneer on one side, can be applied to the
perimeter following the manufacturer's directions. The edging must be slightly wider than the
plywood.
Trim the edging until it is flush with the plywood surface using either an edge or utility knife.
3. Build the apron using wood cut to the size you need. The dimensions discussed below are
general measurements.
Use 1 x 4-inch (2.5 x 10.2 cm) or 1 x 6-inch (2.5 x 14.6 cm) stock.
Cut the stock to length approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) less than the length and width of
the table top. You will cut the ends with a miter saw at 45 degrees.
Take the apron pieces and assemble with the beveled 45 degree ends together by gluing
and using corner clamps. Secure these with 2-inch (5.4 cm) brad nails.
4. Take pieces of scrap wood, approximately 1 x 2 x 6-inches (2.5 X 5.2 X 14.6 cm) and screw
them onto the inside of the apron. You need to screw a minimum of two on each side for cleats to
attach the top.

5. Make the legs from whatever material you decide on. The most common for this project are
made from untreated pine 4 x 4-inch (6.2 x 6.2 cm) posts cut to the length you chose for the height
of the table minus the top thickness.
With the legs cut to length, sand the edges with sandpaper or use a round-over bit in a
router. Also, chamfer the bottom of the leg to keep from chipping the ends when the table
slides over.

6. Attach the legs to each corner of the apron. The most secure way is to screw it into place using
deck screws. Pre-drill holes and counter-sink the screws to keep from splitting the ends of the
aprons. Then fill with wood putty to hide the screw heads.
7. Turn the coffee table top upside down and put the apron, with the legs attached, on the bottom.
Center the apron on the table top.
Now attach the apron and legs to the top with screws through cleats attached to the inside
of the apron. Pre-drill the hole to keep from splitting the wood used for the cleat.

8. Sand the surfaces with progressively finer sandpaper beginning with 120-grit and finishing with
220-grit.
Wipe the dust from the coffee table using a lint-free cloth.
9. Apply a natural finish, which is particularly nice if you have a great grain pattern. Start by
applying a coat of linseed oil rubbed into all exposed surfaces.
Rub down with "000" steel wool after the linseed oil has dried. Now, begin applying 3
coats of varnish with a brush or rag. Rub down the finish between coats with "000" steel
wool and wipe with a lint free cloth.
10. Apply carnauba wood wax to the surface for added protection.