How to build a wooden coffee table with a lift-up top

Building a wooden coffee table with a lift-up top is a fun and rewarding project that combines functionality with craftsmanship. This design allows you to create a coffee table that doubles as a storage unit, making it perfect for small spaces or for those who love to keep things tidy. Below is a step-by-step guide to building this coffee table, from gathering materials to assembling the final piece.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials:

• 1-inch thick plywood or hardwood for the top
• 1×4 lumber for the frame (for a sturdy structure)
• 2 hinges (heavy-duty, to support the lift-up mechanism)
• 2 lift-up mechanisms or gas struts (for smooth lifting action)
• Wood glue
• Screws (wood screws and smaller screws for hinges)
• Wood filler (optional, for smoothing seams)
• Sandpaper or a power sander
• Paint or stain (for finishing)

Tools:

• Circular saw or table saw
• Drill with various bits (for screws and hinges)
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Square
• Wood clamps
• Paintbrush or roller

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Pieces

The first step is to decide on the dimensions of your coffee table. A standard coffee table size is approximately 48 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 18 inches tall, but you can adjust based on your preference and available space.

1. Cut the top:

   • Cut a rectangular piece of plywood or hardwood to the desired length and width for the tabletop.
   • Sand the edges to smooth out any rough spots.

2. Cut the frame pieces:

   • Measure and cut 4 pieces of 1×4 lumber for the frame’s sides, ensuring they are slightly shorter than the width of the tabletop.
   • Cut 2 pieces for the table’s legs. These should be about 18 inches long (standard height for a coffee table).

3. Cut the lift-up top supports:

   • You’ll need two additional pieces that will act as supports for the lift-up mechanism. These should match the length of the tabletop and be about 4 inches wide.

Step 2: Assemble the Frame

Now that you have all the pieces cut, it’s time to assemble the frame of the table.

1. Attach the legs to the frame:

   • Use wood glue and screws to attach the 1×4 lumber pieces together, forming a rectangular frame. Then, attach the legs to the corners of the frame using screws for added stability.

2. Add the lift-up supports:

   • Attach the lift-up support pieces along the inside of the frame using screws, ensuring they are level and evenly spaced. These supports will provide a surface for the lift-up mechanism to attach to.

Step 3: Install the Lift-Up Mechanism

This step involves installing the lift-up mechanism or gas struts that will allow the top to lift smoothly.

1. Mark the hinge placement:

   • On the underside of the top of the table, measure and mark where the hinges will go. Ensure that the hinges are positioned symmetrically and evenly.

2. Attach the hinges to the top:

   • Using screws, attach the two hinges to the marked locations. It’s best to use heavy-duty hinges that can support the weight of the tabletop when lifted.

3. Install the lift-up mechanism or gas struts:

   • Attach the lift-up mechanisms to the inside of the frame and the underside of the tabletop. These should be positioned near the back of the table, about 6 inches from the edges.
   • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the gas struts or lift mechanism you’re using to ensure proper alignment and function.

Step 4: Attach the Tabletop

Once the lift-up mechanism is installed, it’s time to attach the top of the table.

1. Align the tabletop with the frame:

   • Carefully place the tabletop on top of the frame. Ensure it’s aligned and centered, with the hinges properly fitted into place.

2. Secure the top to the frame:

   • Use screws to secure the tabletop to the frame through the hinges, making sure the tabletop is firmly attached but still able to lift easily.

Step 5: Sand and Finish

After the table is fully assembled, sand all the surfaces to ensure a smooth finish. This is especially important around the edges and corners.

1. Sand the wood:

   • Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out the rough edges and then finish with fine-grit sandpaper for a polished surface.

2. Apply finish:

   • Choose a stain or paint that matches your style. You can stain the wood for a natural look or paint it for a more modern finish. Allow the finish to dry completely between coats.

3. Optional wood filler:

   • If there are any gaps or imperfections, use wood filler to fill them in and then sand the surface smooth once dry.

Step 6: Test the Lift Mechanism

Before calling it finished, test the lift mechanism to make sure it works properly. Open and close the lid a few times to ensure the struts or lift mechanisms are operating smoothly and that the lid stays securely in place when raised.

Step 7: Final Touches

Now that your table is assembled and functioning, you can add any final touches. You may want to add felt pads under the legs to prevent damage to your floor, or you could add a decorative finish, like a set of drawer pulls, if your table features additional storage compartments.

Conclusion

Building a wooden coffee table with a lift-up top is a practical and creative project that can be customized to fit your space and needs. The lift-up feature not only adds functionality but also gives the table a unique, modern twist. With the right materials, tools, and attention to detail, you’ll have a beautiful, custom piece of furniture in no time.

For more woodworking projects and detailed plans, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course, a great resource for woodworkers of all skill levels. You can get started here: Ted’s Woodworking Course.