Pine and Plain Collection
Slim Sofa Arm Side Table — This narrow sofa arm side table is the perfect small-space solution for everyday living. Designed to fit just about anywhere, its slim profile slides easily next to a sofa, chair, or armrest without taking up valuable floor space. Despite its compact size, it’s surprisingly useful. The top surface is just right for drinks, phones, remotes, and books, while the open lower shelf holds decor, baskets, or reading material. Lightweight and easy to move around, you can pull it closer when you need it and tuck it away when you don’t. Best of all, this table is super easy to build. The design uses common pine lumber you can find at any home center, with straightforward cuts and simple construction—no special tools or fancy joinery required. It’s an ideal weekend project for beginners, but clean enough in style to fit modern, neutral homes. Finished with a light stain or clear coat, the natural pine grain shines through for a warm, casual look that works with almost any decor style. Why you’ll love it: • Narrow design fits anywhere, even tight spaces • Holds drinks, decor, books, and everyday essentials • Lightweight and easy to move • Built from standard, easy-to-find pine boards • Beginner-friendly build with simple cuts • Whether you’re furnishing a small living room, apartment, or cozy corner, this slim side table proves that simple builds can still be incredibly practical—and good-looking.
Specifications
| Project type | Side and End Table Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 1x4 @ 6 feet long
- Fasteners can be 1-1/4" brad nails and glue, 2" self tapping wood construction screws, or 1-1/4" pocket hole screws or a combination
- wood glue
- wood filler
- 120 grit sand paper
- wood stain or paint
Cut List
- 1 - 1x10 @ 22"
- 2 - 1x10 @ 19-1/4"
- 1 - 1x10 @ 20-1/2"
- 3 - 1x4 @ 20-1/2"
Step-by-step Instructions
Attach the 1x10 boards together.
Pocket holes will be your strongest option and mostly hidden. If using pocket holes, drill on 3/4" setting and use 1-1/4" pocket hole screws 2" self tapping screws or 1-1/4" brad nails are okay to use, but won't be as strong. Use glue. You will also need to hide the fastener holes when you do the finish.
Step 2
Attach the 1x4s to the inside, with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails. These boards add significant structure, make sure they are attached on all available sides.
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/pine-and-plain-collection-slim-arm-side-table-free-plans