Building a DIY coffee table to personalize your living space would be an exciting and rewarding DIY project while adding a delicate and stylish piece of furniture. Whether you’re looking for a rustic farmhouse feel, a sleek modern look, or a cozy, budget-friendly design, this easy guide will walk you through the process step by step. Along the way, this DIY coffee table instruction is free but ensures you clearly understand how to build a coffee table.
Necessary Coffee Table Materials
- Two 40 x 20 x 2 inches wood boards (pine, oak, etc.)
- Wood paint (optional)
- Saw
- Clamp
- Drill
- Sander
- Measuring tape
- Wood glue
- Pocket hole screws
- Safety and protective equipment
Let’s get started to make your coffee table
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: Coffee Table Base 208 Haru 16H Modern Handmade Furniture
How to Make a Cozy Coffee Table in 5 Steps
Step 1: Size and Trim the Wood Boards
A recommended size for a coffee table that suits all spaces is 20 inches long and 40 inches wide. Mark and use the saw to cut the first board into 4 planks (40”x5"x2”).
To create custom wooden legs, cut the second board into 4 bars (2”x2”x16”). To make your coffee table plan easier and more convenient, picking up complete coffee table legs or table bases from reputable shops is a great choice.
To add a frame or other support underneath, cut the wood to the same length and width as your tabletop. Smooth all cut edges with sandpaper to prevent splinters.
Step 2: Put the Wood Together
Arrange the planks for the tabletop in your desired order. If using multiple pieces, make sure the edges fit snugly together.
Next, press each board together after applying wood glue to its edges. Use clamps to hold the planks in place while the glue dries (typically 10–30 minutes) and is fully cured (up to 24 hours).
Attach support beams underneath the tabletop for extra stability, and sand the entire tabletop surface to ensure it’s smooth and even.
Step 3: Attach the Legs to Your Coffee Table
Flip the tabletop over so the underside is facing up, then place the coffee table legs at each corner. Use a measuring tape to ensure they’re evenly spaced and aligned.
Drill pilot holes into the underside of the tabletop to prevent splitting. Then, fasten the legs firmly with bolts or screws.
Use a solid table base to make your coffee table more durable
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 121B Tulipe 16”H Coffee Table Base
Step 4: Apply the Finish
If you're going for a modern or farmhouse style, you can use black and white paint for a contemporary and simple look or the natural brown color for a rustic feeling. Apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat to avoid fluttering paint.
Step 5: Final Touches and Placement
Check your DIY coffee table and tighten any loose screws or uneven areas. Clean the table with a soft cloth to remove dust or residue from the finishing process.
Set the table in your living space, put on the tablecloth, arrange it with decorative items such as books or candles, and enjoy your craftsmanship!
Tips to Customize Your Coffee Table Delicately
Now that you have built a coffee table that can serve as a focal point for years. Want to add a little decor to it? There are many fabulous styles and tips for decorating the table in which you and your family gather. In case you love farmhouse decor and enjoy a cozy atmosphere, the following tips could work for you.
Natural Wood Grain
Natural wood grain is a display of wooden furniture. The emphasis on these characteristics will generate a natural and attractive look when making a coffee table more unique.
Highlight the wood grain with a clear stain or whitewash effect
Credit: ©Artursfoto on Canva
Wrought Steel or Metal Accents
Add metal brackets, handles, or steel coffee table legs for an industrial aesthetic. Metal inlays or riveted details can further accentuate the table’s industrial appeal, making it a perfect fit for your unique spaces.
Add metal coffee table legs to make your farmhouse style table more impressive
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 212 Cleo 16H Modern DIY Furniture; 108 Curva 16" Curved Furniture Legs
Set up Storage Features
Place a basket of wool on the bottom of the table to fill the gap and make it look more attractive. A mini bookshelf is also a solution that increases harmony and softness for your DIY coffee table.
Add a lower wooden shelf for extra storage space
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 218 Cleo 20H End Table Legs
Textured or Patterned Tabletop
Making a coffee table with live-edge wood slabs is the best way to create a cozy look for your home spaces. Woods like walnut, oak, maple, elm, and acacia offer stunning textures, from bold waves to smooth. Subtle patterns beautifully complement the gloss finish to create a unique look.
Use reclaimed wood planks with varying tones
Credit: Flowyline Design
Soft Accessories
Decorate your coffee table with a soft linen tablecloth or runner to create a warm and peaceful feeling, then put a few books or bonsai on the table to create a highlight for it. You can also set up the woolen basket underneath or a small flower vase or candle on the tabletop for the farmhouse style.
A handmade coffee table covered by a soft linen runner is the best choice
Credit: ©Nida Kurt on Pexels
FAQs
What Is the Best Wood to Make a Coffee Table Out Of?
Oak and maple wood are highly durable for making a coffee table. They are popular and are the best for long-term design. Meanwhile, pine and cedar wood are affordable and suitable for farmhouse designs, but they need to be carefully preserved because they are easily scratched.
How Much Overhang Should a Coffee Table Have?
Overhangs of a coffee table should generally not be more than one-third of the width of the tabletop; for example, a 48-inch-wide table should have no more than a 16-inch overhang on any side. To guarantee comfort and usefulness, you should consider legroom and daily use. Stability must come first since too much overhang can throw off the table's balance.
Should a Coffee Table Be Taller or Shorter Than a Couch?
A coffee table should generally be the same height as the seat cushions of your couch or 1-2 inches shorter, which is the advice of many interior designers. Your selections will typically be 40–46 cm tall, and it should not be more than 2.5–5 cm shorter than your living room ensemble. This ensures it’s comfortable to use without overpowering the space.
After following this guide, you already know how to build a coffee table. It's both practical and uniquely tailored to you. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, this project is an approachable way to add charm and personality to your living space. If you have any questions or need more advice about coffee table legs or any problems with your handmade table, do not hesitate to contact our customer service via email at customerservice@flowyline.com. At Flowyline, we are here to turn your DIY projects into dream centerpieces.
