Beginner DIY Table

This table is perfect for a beginner builder.  The cuts are straightforward, it's inexpensive and you can adjust the sizes easily, if needed.  I knocked this out in a few hours after work one day, and that included my trip to the store for lumber.  So if building intimidates you, this could be a great starting point.

Shop List
2 - 1"x10" @ 6'
2 - 1"x4" @ 6'
2 - 2"x"2 @ 8'
2 - 2"x4" @ 8'

Cut List
1"x10" - 4 @ 36" (these are your tabletop pieces, so make sure they are all the same length)
1"x4" - 2 @ 33.5" / 2 @ 34"
2"x2" - 4 @ 33.5" / 4 @ 12.75" non-parallel 45 degree cut (distance between long points)
2"x4" - 4 @ 29.25"

Tools Used (click here for a list of our favorite tools)
Miter Saw (could use any saw)
Kreg Jig
1.25" Kreg Screws
Power Drill
Power Sander (could use sanding blocks by hand)
Angle & Carpenter Squares
Level
Clamps
Nail Gun (could use hammer or screws)
2" nails

Start by making a box out of your 1"x4" pieces.  Use a carpenter's square and/or an angle square to make sure it's a true 90 degree angle. 

I used my trusty Kreg Jig to create the pocket holes, set to a 3/4" thick board and using 1.25" Kreg screws. 

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Once you have your box built, go ahead and add the 2"x2" support pieces parallel to the 33.5" sides of the box.  Make sure they are flush with the edge of the box.  These will eventually be what you secure your table top to.

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Next you want to take your angled pieces and nail them to the frame and to the support beams, as shown in the picture.  This will help keep your table from wobbling. 

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Set your box aside and make your tabletop.  You'll do this with you Kreg Jig and 1"x10" pieces.  I used 4 pocket holes for each board that was being joined.

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Now you're ready to put all of the pieces together.  Start by laying the table top upside down (pocket holes up) and the center the box on top of it (angled pieces on top).  Nail the pieces together - I used 2" nails and went from the underside.  I did test a two scrap pieces of wood to make sure it wouldn't go through and show on the tabletop, before doing it on my actual table.

Next up are the table legs.  I used 2 pocket holes on the inside of the table, but found that alone to be wobbly.  So I went back and used 2 nails per leg, from the outside of the box.  It worked perfectly and the table is incredibly sturdy.

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Once your table is completed, it's time to give it a good sanding.  I used a power sander and 220 grit paper, spending a little extra time making sure the table top and and table sides were smooth, since that is what people would most often brush up against. 

Once sanded, vacuum or brush off the sawdust and then wipe with a rag to make sure that the surface is clean.

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Now you're ready to finish your table however you like!  I chose to do a dark stain (Rustoleum in Kona, my fav), but paint would be equally beautiful. 

My process for stain is to use a wood conditioner, then stain, then a water-based polycrilic sealant.  For paint, I typically go for a all-in-one product that is low odor and quick dry.  Valspar is one that I use often.

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And there you have it!  A brand new, simple table that your family can enjoy!  If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments and I will post a reply answer.  Happy Building!

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