Parsons Square End Table or Nightstand
Build your own modern end table with! This beautiful design uses just 1x10 boards and 2x2s—no plywood required. It’s a quick, beginner-friendly project that results in a lightweight but sturdy solid wood table. Perfect for staining or painting to match your space. The simple, clean style fits any room, and you can easily customize the size or finish. Whether you need a nightstand, side table, or accent piece, this DIY build is both functional and stunning. Download the today and start building!
Specifications
| Project type | Nightstands |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 3 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long OR two pieces of 3/4" plywood or project panel 18-1/2" x 18-1/2"
- 1-1/4" pocket hole screws (about 30)
- 2-1/2" pocket hole screws (about 16)
IMPORTANT: Bring your wood into your space and allow to acclimate overnight before cutting and building with. This project requires a humidity controlled interior (no big changes to humidity)
Cut List
- 4 - 1x10 @ 18-1/2" - shelf boards
- 4 - 2x2 @ about 18-1/2" - measure and cut to fit
- 4 - 2x2 @ 18-1/2"
- 4 - 2x2 @ 20"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Build two of the shelves by joining 1x10s together with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screw, three screws per joint. Make sure outside edges are flush.
Step 2
Drill 3/4" pocket holes, three per side, around the two shelves, for attaching to the frame in later steps. Measure and cut the 2x2s as shown, and attach with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, so the top edges are flush. Drill 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x2s, on the bottom, one hole per end.
Step 3
Attach the side frames together with 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws and glue, one per joint, hiding pocket holes on the undersides.
Step 4
Attach the shelves to the side frames with pocket hole screws and glue, all outside edges are flush.
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/diy-parsons-square-end-table-or-nightstand-free-plans-using-1x10s-and-2x2s