How to build a wooden entryway table with drawers and cubbies

Building a wooden entryway table with drawers and cubbies can be a fun and rewarding project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Materials and Tools:

• Wood: Hardwood like oak, pine, or maple for durability.
  • 1×10 boards for the tabletop, shelves, and side panels.
  • 1×12 for cubby dividers.
  • 1×4 for drawer fronts and supports.
• Wood screws (2 ½” screws)
• Drawer slides (if adding drawers)
• Wood glue
• Wood finish or stain (optional)
• Miter saw or circular saw
• Drill with screwdriver bits
• Kreg Jig (optional, for pocket hole joinery)
• Measuring tape
• Sandpaper (or sander)

Step 1: Plan and Measure

Before cutting any wood, determine the desired dimensions for your table. A common size for an entryway table is about 36” long, 30” tall, and 12” deep. Adjust based on your space and needs.

• Top: The tabletop should be 36″ x 12″.
• Legs: Four legs, each about 30” tall.
• Shelves: One or two shelves under the tabletop for added storage, about 12” deep and the width of the table.
• Cubbies: You can divide the shelves into cubbies (e.g., three sections) using 1×12 boards.
• Drawers: If adding drawers, you can design them to fit within the table’s width and depth.

Step 2: Cut the Wood

Using your saw, cut the wood pieces based on your measurements:

• Top piece: 36” x 12”.
• Legs: Four pieces, each 30” tall.
• Side panels: Two pieces, about 12” deep and the height of your table (30”).
• Shelves: Cut one or two pieces to fit the width and depth (36” x 12”).
• Cubbies/Dividers: If using cubbies, cut 1×12 boards into sections for each cubby divider.
• Drawer pieces: If adding drawers, cut four pieces for the front, back, and sides of the drawers.

Step 3: Assemble the Base Frame

1. Attach the legs to the sides: Lay the two side panels flat and attach each leg to the inside edges of the side panels using screws or wood glue. Ensure the legs are square with the side panels and secured tightly.

2. Add the bottom shelf: Attach the shelf between the two side panels about 6” to 12” from the bottom (depending on your design) using wood screws or pocket hole joinery.

3. Install the top piece: Place the top board onto the top of the base and secure it using screws from underneath or with wood glue.

Step 4: Install the Cubbies and Additional Shelves

1. If you want cubbies, measure and divide the shelf space using vertical dividers. Attach these dividers with wood screws or glue to create individual sections.

2. If you’re adding an additional shelf or cubby divider, attach it about halfway or wherever makes sense for your design.

Step 5: Build and Attach the Drawers

1. Drawer Construction:
   • For each drawer, cut four pieces (two sides, one front, and one back) using the dimensions that match the cubby space.
   • Assemble the drawer box using wood glue and screws or nails. Use a Kreg Jig for pocket holes for a stronger connection.
2. Install Drawer Slides:
   • Attach the drawer slides to the sides of each drawer. Install corresponding slides on the inside of the cubby spaces, ensuring they are level and aligned for smooth operation.
   • Insert the drawer into the slides and check for a smooth fit.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

• Sanding: Sand all surfaces to a smooth finish, starting with a coarse grit and finishing with a finer grit for a polished surface.
• Stain or Paint: Apply a wood stain or paint to your table, ensuring even coverage and allowing it to dry completely.

Step 7: Final Touches

• Add hardware (drawer pulls or knobs) to the front of each drawer.
• Ensure the table is stable and all parts are securely fastened.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Table

Place the finished table in your entryway and load it up with decorative items, keys, or anything else you’d like to store or display.

This project should take a few days, depending on your skill level and the complexity of the design. You can also personalize it further with different stains, paint colors, or decorative details to suit your home’s style.