How to create a wooden console table with a floating effect

Creating a wooden console table with a floating effect is an exciting and challenging woodworking project. It involves precise measurements, skillful cuts, and careful assembly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a wooden console table that appears to “float” off the ground.

Materials Needed:

• Hardwood (e.g., oak, walnut, maple, or cherry) for the tabletop and legs
• Wood glue
• Screws or hidden fasteners
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood finish or stain
• Table saw or circular saw
• Drill and drill bits
• Carpenter’s square
• Clamps
• Wood filler
• Level
• Floating wall bracket or steel supports

Step 1: Plan and Measure

Before cutting any wood, carefully plan out your design. For a floating console table, the key is to create an illusion that the table’s top is suspended without visible support.

1. Table Dimensions: Measure the desired length, width, and height of the console table. A typical console table is about 30 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches deep.
2. Floating Effect Design: The “floating” effect comes from mounting the table top to the wall with hidden supports. The legs will be designed with minimal support, often consisting of a narrow, minimalistic frame.

Step 2: Cut the Tabletop and Legs

1. Tabletop: Start by cutting the wood for the tabletop. If you are using a hardwood slab, ensure it is smooth, or use a table saw to trim it to the correct dimensions.
2. Legs/Support Frame: For the floating effect, the legs will often be hidden or minimal. You can use a steel bracket or a wooden frame that attaches to the wall, giving the illusion of floating. If you’re using wood for the support, measure and cut two strips that will be mounted to the wall to support the tabletop.
   • Optional Frame Design: You can design a narrow, open frame around the tabletop that will attach to the wall bracket, giving the table its floating look.

Step 3: Prepare the Wall for Mounting

The most important part of the floating effect is the attachment to the wall.

1. Wall Mounting Bracket: You will need a sturdy, strong wall bracket or hidden steel supports. These supports will be mounted directly into the studs in the wall. Measure carefully to ensure the brackets are positioned where you want your table to be.
2. Stud Locator: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. Make sure that your floating supports will be anchored into these studs to ensure they can hold the weight of the table.
3. Marking for Bracket Placement: Mark the exact placement of the bracket on the wall, ensuring it’s level.

Step 4: Attach the Floating Supports

1. Install the Wall Bracket: Using screws, mount the wall bracket(s) into the studs of the wall. These brackets should be at the same height where you want the top of the table to be positioned.
2. Attach Support Frame or Wooden Leg: If you’re using a frame that holds the tabletop or have a specific leg design, attach this frame to the wall bracket. The frame should allow enough clearance to give the floating illusion but still be strong enough to support the tabletop.

Step 5: Assemble the Table

1. Attach the Tabletop to the Support: Once the bracket or support is in place, carefully lift the tabletop and place it on the hidden supports. You may need a second set of hands to help with this step to ensure the tabletop is positioned securely and level.
2. Secure the Tabletop: If necessary, you can use wood screws or hidden fasteners to secure the tabletop to the bracket. Ensure the screws are concealed, keeping the clean, floating aesthetic intact.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

1. Sanding: Use sandpaper to smooth all surfaces of the tabletop and the support frame. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and progress to finer grits for a smooth finish.
2. Filling Holes: If you used screws or fasteners that are visible, fill those holes with wood filler and smooth them out.
3. Staining and Finishing: Once the wood is sanded smooth, apply your preferred wood stain or finish. Choose a finish that complements the look you want for your space, whether it’s a natural wood look or a more contemporary color.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Install the Table on the Wall: Double-check that the table is level and properly supported by the hidden bracket. Tighten any screws or fasteners as needed.
2. Adjust the Position: Once mounted, carefully adjust the position of the table, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the wall and has a clean, seamless floating appearance.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Floating Console Table

Once your table is installed and finished, step back and admire the floating effect. The minimalist design and clever use of hidden supports create a stylish, modern piece of furniture that enhances any space.

Tips for Success:

• If you’re using a slab of wood for the tabletop, ensure it is properly dried and treated to prevent warping over time.
• Be mindful of the weight capacity of the wall supports. You don’t want the table to sag or pull away from the wall.
• Test the stability of the table before placing any heavy items on it.

Building a floating console table is a rewarding woodworking project that combines functionality with design. The floating effect gives the table an airy, modern look while maximizing the visual space in your room.

For a more in-depth woodworking experience, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking.