Building a wooden coffee table with built-in storage is a rewarding project that combines both style and functionality. The table will serve as both a focal point for your living room and a practical space to store books, magazines, remote controls, or other household items. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build your own wooden coffee table with hidden storage.
Materials Needed:
- Wood (Oak, pine, or any wood of your choice)
- For the table top: 1 large board (about 48”x24”)
- For the sides: 2 side panels (about 16”x24”)
- For the legs: 4 pieces (about 18”)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Hinges (for the storage lid)
- Handles (optional, for lifting the lid)
- Sandpaper (or a sander)
- Wood stain/paint (optional, for finishing)
- Wood finish (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill with bits
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Planning and Designing
Before cutting your wood, plan the dimensions of your coffee table. The general dimensions for a coffee table are about 48” in length, 24” in width, and 18” in height, but feel free to adjust based on your space. Your storage area can be a simple open compartment, or you can create dividers to better organize the space.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood
Using your saw, cut your wood according to the measurements you’ve decided:
- One piece for the table top (48” x 24”)
- Two side panels (16” x 24”)
- Four legs (18” each, or according to your desired height)
Step 3: Preparing the Table Base
Begin by assembling the basic frame of your coffee table:
- Attach the two side panels to the table top. Use wood glue for extra stability, and then secure the panels with wood screws. You can drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Attach the four legs to the bottom of the table base. Again, use screws to fix the legs securely.
Step 4: Installing the Storage Compartment
To create the built-in storage, you’ll need to make sure the top of your coffee table can open:
- Attach hinges to one side of the table so that it opens like a lid. This will give you access to the storage compartment below.
- You can add a small divider inside the compartment to separate the space into two sections, but this is optional depending on how you want to organize the storage.
If you’re making dividers, measure and cut additional pieces of wood to fit inside the table, and secure them with screws or wood glue.
Step 5: Sanding and Preparing for Finishing
Once the structure is complete, sand the entire coffee table to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper (like 120-grit) and move to finer grits (like 220-grit) for a smoother finish.
Make sure to pay special attention to the edges and corners for a polished look.
Step 6: Staining or Painting
If you want to stain or paint your coffee table, now is the time to do it. Apply your chosen finish using a brush or rag. For a natural wood look, use a wood stain that complements the wood’s grain. If you prefer a bold color or a modern style, painting the table might be a good option.
Allow the table to dry completely between coats and after the final coat.
Step 7: Attaching the Lid and Handles
Once the stain or paint is dry, attach the lid to the storage compartment using the hinges you installed earlier. Make sure the lid opens and closes smoothly.
If desired, install handles on the front of the lid to make it easier to open. Simply screw them into place.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once your coffee table is assembled and finished, check for any imperfections and make any final adjustments. If the lid doesn’t close evenly, check the hinge placement and tighten the screws if needed. You can also add protective pads to the bottom of the legs to avoid scratches on your floor.
Step 9: Enjoy Your New Coffee Table
Your wooden coffee table with built-in storage is now complete and ready to be placed in your living room. Not only does it serve as a stylish piece of furniture, but the storage compartment offers a practical solution for keeping your space organized and clutter-free.
For more woodworking ideas and plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.