Chunky Leg Coffee Table
to build a modern, chunky leg coffee table! These are easy plans that most novice woodworkers can tackle with basic tools. You can do this!
Specifications
| Project type | Coffee Tables |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Style | Modern Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
1 - 2x6 @ 8' or 92-5/8" stud length
2 - 1x12 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x3 @ 6 feet long
3 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
16 - 2" self tapping start bit screws (SPAX or GRK or similar)
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue
120 and 150 grit sand paper
paint or stain
Cut List
4 - 2x6 @ 17" - legs
4 - 1x12 @ 47-1/2" - tabletop boards
Top frame
- 2 - 1x3 @ about 19-1/2" - measure and cut to fit
- 2- 1x3 @ 43"
- 3 - 1x2 @ about 18" - measure and cut to fit
Bottom frame
- 2 - 1x2 @ about 19-1/2" - measure and cut to fit
- 2- 1x2 @ 43"
- 3 - 1x2 @ about 18" - measure and cut to fit
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- safety glasses
- drill
- jigsaw
- compound miter saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Measure the ends of the 2x6 to make sure they are 1-1/2" x 5-1/2" - adjust if necessary.
Cut out ends of the 1x12 boards as shown. Lay the 1x12s out.
Step 2
Measure between the cutouts and cut two 1x3s to fit this measurement.
Using the 1x3s cut in the previous step, create a frame with the 1x3s @ 43".
Nail the outer frame 1x3s together with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails at corners. Then measure the inside measurement and cut 3 1x2s to fit. Nail and glue inside the frame with 1-1/4" brad nails.
Apply glue between the 1x12s and lay out on a flat level surface.
Apply glue to back side of the 1x3 frame and nail and glue to the underside of the 1x12s with 1-1/4" nails.
Repeat these steps for the bottom shelf, but the outer frame is 1x2s instead of 1x3s.
TIP: sand, stain or paint the two shelves and the four legs at this stage for a more professional looking finish.
Step 6
With the top shelf (1x3 frame) face down on a very level surface, set the legs in place and attach with 2" self tapping star bit screws, two per leg, screws at a slight outward angle for increased stability. TIP: You can set just one screw per leg now, and further secure after the bottom shelf is in place as well. I did this to help get the bottom shelf placed and make sure everything was level.
Step 7
Mark the legs 2-1/2" down and set the bottom shelf in place. I actually turned on it's side to do this step. Two 2" screw per leg, at a slight outward angle.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/chunky-leg-coffee-table-rectangle