Building a wooden game table with storage drawers requires careful planning, proper measurements, and a bit of woodworking skill. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create a functional and aesthetically pleasing game table that includes storage for games, cards, or other items.
Materials Needed:
- Wood:
- 4 x 4-inch hardwood posts for the legs
- Plywood (¾-inch thick) for the table top and bottom panels
- Hardwood or softwood for the drawer fronts and sides
- Tools:
- Table saw or circular saw
- Miter saw
- Drill and bits
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Clamps
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Start by determining the size of your game table. A standard game table is usually 30 inches in height, and the tabletop can range from 36 to 48 inches square or round, depending on your preference. Be sure to allow enough space for the storage drawers underneath.
Draw out a rough design of your table, noting the dimensions of each component. This will help you visualize the final product and avoid any mistakes during construction.
Step 2: Cut the Table Top
- Begin by cutting the plywood to the desired dimensions for your tabletop. If you’re making a rectangular table, cut the plywood to the length and width of the table, leaving a bit of overhang on the edges.
- Use a table saw or circular saw to ensure straight cuts. Sand the edges to smooth out any rough spots.
Step 3: Cut the Table Legs
- For the legs, cut four 4 x 4-inch hardwood posts to the height of the table (typically 30 inches). You can adjust this height if you want a taller or shorter table.
- Cut the ends of each leg at a 90-degree angle to ensure they sit flat on the floor and are evenly spaced.
Step 4: Assemble the Frame
- Attach the legs to the corners of the table top using wood screws or dowels. You can use corner brackets for extra support. Make sure each leg is placed at a 90-degree angle to the table.
- If you’re adding additional support to the frame, you can install cross braces between the legs for stability.
Step 5: Add the Drawer Framework
- For the storage drawers, first measure the space under the tabletop. Ideally, leave a gap of about 3-4 inches between the tabletop and the drawer frames.
- Cut the side, front, and back pieces for the drawer frame using the plywood or hardwood. Assemble the frame by attaching the sides to the front and back pieces with wood glue and screws.
- Install drawer rails on the inside of the frame to allow for smooth sliding. These can be simple metal tracks or wooden runners.
- If you’re making multiple drawers, repeat the process and adjust the spacing between each drawer as needed.
Step 6: Build and Install the Drawers
- Measure and cut the drawer boxes to fit the frame, ensuring a snug fit. Assemble the boxes by attaching the sides, front, and back with wood glue and screws.
- Install the drawer fronts to the box, leaving a small gap between the drawer and the frame for easy opening and closing.
- Slide the drawers into the frame, checking for proper movement. If needed, adjust the rails to ensure a smooth glide.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
- Sand the entire table with varying grits of sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas. Start with a coarse grit to remove any imperfections, then use finer grits to finish the surface.
- Once the table is fully sanded, apply a wood finish or paint of your choice to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Allow the finish to dry completely.
Step 8: Final Assembly
- Once the finish has dried, place the table top onto the completed frame and drawers. Attach the top securely to the frame using screws or wood glue.
- Install drawer pulls or handles on the front of the drawers for easy access.
Additional Tips:
- Customization: You can add dividers inside the drawers to help organize games, cards, and other small items.
- Game Table Surface: For a more specialized game table, you might want to add a felt or velvet surface for card games or billiards. This can be glued or stapled to the plywood top before assembly.
- Style: Personalize the design by choosing a wood finish that matches your home decor, or paint the table in a bold color for a modern look.
By following these steps, you’ll have a beautiful and functional wooden game table with storage drawers that will be perfect for family game nights or entertaining friends.
For more woodworking ideas and detailed plans, consider exploring Teds Woodworking Course here.