Modern Coffee Table
This is my first project I designed and made for someone else. Everything was designed using Sketchup. This particular project was built to replace my parents coffee table that had fallen apart over the years. The table it replaces was made out of MDF with a Teak veneer. My parents were adamant about building it out of solid teak. I found it difficult to find so I built this one out of solid Iroko “also known as African Teak” While I don’t have a planer or jointer I found that buying the wood presurfaced helped out a lot.
Specifications
| Project type | Coffee Tables |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Style | Modern Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Estimated cost | $100-$150 |
Shopping List
1 -- 2 x 2 @ 6’
4 -- 1 x 10 @ 6’
50) 1 ¼” Kreg Screws (Only if using Kreg Jig)
Sandpaper
Stain,varnish, paint or other finishing product
Wood Putty
Cut List
A) 3 - 1” X 8” @ 48” (Tabletop)
B) 4 - 1” X 2” @ 43” (Front and Back Aprons)
C) 4 - 1” X 2” @ 19” (Side Aprons)
D) 4 - 2" X 2" @ 17 1/4" (Legs)
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Once everything is cut from the cutlist start off with assembling the tabletop. If you are using a Kreg Jig just drill the pocket holes in the center piece. apply glue and screw the pieces together. Set it aside to dry while you assemble the rest of the project. You could optionally use glue and clamps.
Step 2
If using pocket holes place two on each side of the 8 aprons for attaching them to the table legs. Also add 3 pocket holes across the top 4 aprons to attach the tabletop to the base. Once All the pocket holes are drilled it is simple enough to assemble. Start off with assembly of the front and back of the table. If you would like the aprons to be offeset from the front of the table legs just use a spacer to accomplish this. The table I built has 3/8" offset. This is optional and can be just placed flush to the front
Step 3
Now use a 2" spacer and attach the second lower apron to the table leg.
Step 4
Attach the side aprons in the same fashion.
Step 5
Step 6
The final step would be to attach the tabletop to the base. Choose which side you prefer as the top and attach place it face down. Center the base on top of it and attach it with the pocket hole screws.
Step 7
The table top should have a 1" overhang. This is determined from the legs and not the aprons.
Step 8
CUT Sheet for the Aprons.
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/modern-coffee-table