How to Make a Wooden Floating TV Stand with Hidden Storage
A floating TV stand with hidden storage combines both style and functionality, giving your living room a modern, sleek look while offering practical solutions for storing electronics, remotes, and other accessories. Building a wooden floating TV stand is a rewarding project that requires basic woodworking skills, but with some patience, you can create a stunning piece of furniture.
This guide will walk you through the process of making your own floating TV stand with hidden storage.
Materials and Tools Required
Materials:
- 1” x 12” hardwood (for the stand frame and shelves)
- ½” plywood (for the back panel and hidden storage compartments)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws (2” and 1” screws)
- Hidden shelf brackets (for floating effect)
- Drawer slides (if you are including pull-out drawers)
- Stain or paint (to finish the wood)
- Wood filler (for smoothing holes)
- Sandpaper (various grits)
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Level
- Woodworking square
- Paintbrush or rag (for finishing)
Step 1: Plan the Dimensions
Before you begin cutting any wood, it’s essential to determine the dimensions of your floating TV stand. The width of the stand will depend on the size of your TV, while the height and depth can vary based on your design preferences.
Example Dimensions:
- Width: 60 inches (for a medium-sized TV)
- Height: 18 inches (a comfortable viewing height)
- Depth: 14 inches (this will accommodate most TVs and provide enough room for hidden storage)
You can adjust these dimensions to suit your space and needs.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Once your measurements are ready, cut the wood according to the dimensions of your floating TV stand. You will need:
- Top Panel: 1 piece of 1” x 12” hardwood, 60” x 14”
- Side Panels: 2 pieces of 1” x 12” hardwood, 18” x 14”
- Shelves: 2 pieces of 1” x 12” hardwood, 60” x 12”
- Back Panel: 1 piece of ½” plywood, 60” x 18” (to hide the storage)
- Drawer or Storage Compartment Pieces: Depending on your storage design, cut appropriate pieces for any compartments or drawers.
Ensure your cuts are clean and accurate, especially when cutting for the side and back panels.
Step 3: Assemble the Stand Frame
Start by assembling the frame for the floating TV stand:
- Attach the Side Panels: Take the two side panels and attach them to the top panel using wood glue and screws. Drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood. Use a square to ensure that the corners are at a perfect 90 degrees.
- Add the Back Panel: Attach the back panel to the frame. This panel will hide the hidden storage compartments. Use wood glue and screws to secure it in place.
Step 4: Build the Hidden Storage Compartments
This step involves building the compartments that will give your floating TV stand its hidden storage capabilities.
Create Dividers or Shelves: If you want individual compartments, cut additional pieces of plywood or hardwood to create dividers inside the stand. Attach them with wood screws or nails, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Install Drawer Slides (Optional): If you’re including drawers, install drawer slides on the inside of the side panels, ensuring that they are level and aligned. Measure carefully to ensure the drawers will open and close smoothly.
Prepare the Storage Door (Optional): If you want to hide certain compartments behind a door (like for cables or gaming consoles), use a smaller piece of wood to create a hinged door. Attach the door with small, concealed hinges.
Step 5: Mount the Floating Brackets
To achieve the floating look, you’ll need to mount hidden shelf brackets to the wall.
Locate the Wall Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where the TV stand will be mounted. Mark these locations with a pencil.
Install Floating Shelf Brackets: Mount the floating shelf brackets to the studs, ensuring they are level and spaced according to the width of your TV stand. You may need a helper to hold the stand in place while you secure the brackets.
Attach the TV Stand to the Brackets: Carefully lift the assembled TV stand onto the brackets. Once in position, use screws to attach the stand to the brackets. Ensure the stand is level and secure.
Step 6: Sand and Finish the Stand
Once your TV stand is assembled and securely mounted, it’s time to finish the wood.
Sand the Edges and Surface: Sand the stand using medium-grit sandpaper, then finish with fine-grit to ensure a smooth surface. Sand all edges, corners, and any rough spots. Be sure to sand the hidden storage compartments as well.
Apply Stain or Paint: Apply a wood stain or paint to the stand, depending on your desired finish. Staining will enhance the natural grain of the wood, while paint will give the stand a more uniform, modern look.
Seal the Stand: After the stain or paint dries, apply a clear wood sealer to protect the surface. This will also help the stand resist moisture and wear over time.
Step 7: Organize the Hidden Storage
Now that your floating TV stand is assembled and finished, it’s time to use the hidden storage compartments to organize your space.
Cable Management: The compartments behind the TV stand’s back panel are perfect for storing wires, cables, and power strips. Use cable ties or small bins to keep things tidy.
Store Electronics or Remotes: Use the drawers or concealed compartments to store your TV remotes, game consoles, or other media equipment. If you’re using a door, make sure it opens smoothly to access your devices.
Step 8: Final Touches
Before you call it a day, check the alignment and sturdiness of your floating TV stand. Make sure everything is level, and that the storage doors or compartments function properly. If needed, make minor adjustments.
Lastly, add your TV and any decorative accessories to complete the look. The floating design, combined with the hidden storage, should offer a clean, uncluttered appearance while keeping your space organized.
Conclusion
Building a floating TV stand with hidden storage is an excellent way to enhance your living room with both functionality and style. The project involves basic woodworking skills, but with the right tools and materials, you can achieve a beautiful, modern TV stand that fits your needs. Plus, the hidden compartments provide a perfect solution for keeping everything organized and out of sight.
If you’re interested in more woodworking projects, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course, which provides detailed plans for over 16,000 projects to help you hone your skills.