Homestead End Table, Side Table or Nightstand
Homestead End Table – Simple. Solid. Built to last. The Homestead End Table is a sturdy, no-nonsense piece designed with classic homestead principles in mind: strong joinery, practical storage, and timeless style. Built entirely from dimensional lumber, this end table is approachable for beginners yet substantial enough to feel at home next to a sofa, bed, or reading chair. With its angled legs and thick top, the Homestead End Table has a grounded, handcrafted look that pairs perfectly with farmhouse, modern rustic, and cottage-style homes. The lower shelf adds useful storage for books, baskets, or everyday essentials, making it as functional as it is beautiful. Best of all, walk you through the entire build step by step, using basic tools and straightforward techniques—no complicated cuts or specialty hardware required. Why you’ll love this build: • Solid, sturdy design with a handmade feel • Beginner-friendly construction using common lumber • Functional lower shelf for storage or display • Coordinates with other pieces in the Homestead Collection • Easy to customize with paint, stain, or a natural finish • Can be built for outdoor use too! Whether you’re furnishing a cozy living room or adding a handmade touch to your home, the Homestead End Table is a satisfying build that looks great and works hard. 👉 available below — build it yourself and make it your own.
Specifications
| Project type | Nightstands |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 - 2x4 @ 104-5/8" or longer
- 1 - 2x8 @ 4 feet long
- 1 - 2x6 @ 4 feet long
- 2-3/4" self tapping star bit screws
- 2-1/2" pocket hole screws
- wood glue
- wood stain
This project is optimized for building two.
Yellow toned soft wood for interior projects is easiest to work with.
Cut List
Tabletop
- 2 - 2x8 @ 21"
- 2 - 2x4 @ 13-1/2" - both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, long point to long point, ends NOT parallel
Legs
- 4 - 2x4 @ 17-1/4" - both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, long point to short point, ends ARE parallel
- 2 - 2x4 @ 12-1/4" - both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, long point to long point, ends NOT parallel
- 2 - 2x4 @ 7-5/8" - both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, long point to long point, ends NOT parallel
Bottom Shelf
- 2 - 2x6 @ 19"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Layout the 2x8 tabletop boards and place the 13-1/2" long boards on top, centered across, 1" space on end. Attach with 2-3/4" screws and glue.
Build two of the leg sets first.
TIP - If you have a nailer, nail together first with 2" nails, and then use pocket holes for final joinery. If you don't have a pocket hole jig, you can still build with just the self tapping screws and glue - but there will be a screw hole showing. Attach the leg sets to the underside of the tabletop supports.
Place the lower shelf boards on the bottom. Clamp.
If you have a nailer, nail in place with 2" nails and glue. Attach from underside with 2-3/4" self tapping screws.
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/homestead-end-table-side-table-or-nightstand