subject: Decisions to Consider When Making Coffee Table Plans [print this page] Decisions to Consider When Making Coffee Table Plans
Making your own coffee table is an excellent project for any experienced or inexperienced woodworker. This sort of table usually is the center piece of a room and for that reason if you decide to make your own I would recommend getting a good set of coffee table plans in order to build something that is satisfactory and compliments the rest of the environment. When making a coffee table we must first decide what type of wood we are going to use.
When making a table such as this you could use any type of furniture grade wood. I prefer pine because it is durable and very economical. You may use whatever your preference or coffee table plans say to use just keep in mind some types of wood cost more than others. After you have made your decision on what type of wood you are going to be using its time to get your tools and materials. You will need measuring tape, a handsaw, some screws or nails, sandpaper and paint or finish. You will also need a solid sheet of 2 inch thick sheet wood and a couple of 2 by 4's
When you have all your supplies it's time to begin cutting out all the parts to build your coffee table. Cut 2 pieces of your 2 by 4, 16 inches in length. Then cut those pieces width wise so you end up with 4, 2 by 2's at 16 inches in length. The standard size of a coffee tabletop is 2ft by 4ft or if you are building a unique piece just comply with your coffee table design plans. Using your solid piece of sheet wood cut out your tabletop. After you cut out the tabletop we are going to work on the frame of the coffee table, the frame will give the coffee table strength and stability. The frame will connect the tabletop and the legs. So cut 2 rails from your 2 by 4'sat 37inches and 2 rails at 16inches Using woodworking screws connect your the rails to the frame and legs below the coffee tabletop. When connecting the legs to the frame and tabletop you may want tohold them in place with some clamps. After that your piece should be ready for paint or finish, whatever your preference.
I hope this article has been helpful. Good Luck and Happy Woodworking!
