Step Up Side Table
Featuring three shelves in different lengths, this side table provides interesting modern storage. Works as both a tabletop for placing drinks, and as storage and display for books and other things.
Specifications
| Project type | Side and End Table Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Style | Modern Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
16″ wide shelf, 8 feet long OR 8 feet long plywood cut 16″ wide or if you have scraps left over of 1×16 that is 15 1/2″ wide, you can use that too.
1×8, 4 feet long
2×2, 2 feet long
2″ screws or 1 1/4″ pocket hole screws
wood glue
wood filler
finishing supplies
Cut List
1 – 1×8 @ 20″ (Bottom Partition)
1 – 1×16 @ 22″ (Middle Shelf)
1 – 1×8 @ 10″ (Top Partition)
1 – 1×16 @ 15 3/4″ (Back – adjust if your 1x8s are narrower width)
1 – 1×16 @ 12 3/4″ (Top)
1 – 1×16 @ 30″ (Bottom Shelf)
4 – 2×2 @ 5 1/4″ (Leg
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- level
- countersink drill bit
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Screw the middle shelf to the bottom partition with 2″ screws and glue. Predrill your holes with a countersink bit.
Step 2
Top Partition. If you have a Kreg Jig™, drill pocket holes and attach. Otherwise, carefully use your countersink drill bit to drill pilot holes at angles, then screw small partition to middle shelf. You don’t need much support here – glue and being attached on the top and back side will be lots of support.
Step 3
Back. The back should fit perfectly on the middle shelf and partitions. Predrill holes and attach with 2″ screws and glue.
Step 4
Top. Attach the top with 2″ screws and glue.
Step 5
Step 6
Assembly. Now simply screw the base to the bottom shelf.
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/step-side-table