Starting a DIY project is exciting, but they can easily be pushed to the side due to inexperience or not knowing where to start. Building a coffee table is an easy way to start woodworking, as all it takes is a trip to a hardware store and a few planks of wood, nails, and paint. Below, learn some popular styles of coffee tables and how to go about building one. 

Examples of Popular Styles

Before taking a trip to the hardware store for building materials, have an idea of what type of coffee table you want to make. Although many materials can be used to create a table, like metal or glass, wood is the most beginner-friendly and doesn't require complicated soldering tools. As an alternative, you could build a wood base with a pre-cut glass top.

The most beginner-friendly designs that will fit in almost any living room include the following. 

• Transitional: This is a mix between traditional wood carved furniture and modern minimalism. It's considered more casual and works best with higher couches.

• Cottage/Country: These tables are lower to the ground, are wider, and are typically distressed. They are usually fitted with drawers and have short and stocky feminine legs.

• Rustic: These tables place emphasis on weathered and banged-up wood with exposed metal accents and nail heads. Rustic designs are easier to make because of this. 

• Parson: This is a square, low to the ground, wide table that has a flat top with four equally thick square legs. They are popular because of their simplicity and ease of customization.

Steps to Build a Coffee Table

Cut the Parts

Start by prepping the parts. The legs all need to be of similar length and width, while the base and top need to be cut to be identical. If they aren't, your project will come out crooked. Drill angled holes for the pocket screws that will fasten the majority of the table.

Assemble the Base

Connect two legs together with one or more pieces of wood, and start making your way around the base screwing in screws until you have a base. If you want to have a table with two levels, you can screw shelf cleats as a base instead of just the legs.

Build the Top

Once the base is built, you can create the top piece by doing the same thing as the shelf cleat base. It's easier to create the top by gluing wood together and screwing the whole piece on top of the base. Then, you should sand, stain, and seal the wood to prevent it from splintering.

To start this project, you'll need the right tools and supplies. Head over to Berthiaume's Neversink Lumber Co., Inc. in Port Jervis, NY, for all your wood and supply needs. For over 60 years, this hardware store has served its community by supplying the right lumber for any job. Ask their knowledgeable staff today for tips on how to proceed with your project by calling (845) 856-5161. Visit their Facebook page for up-to-date news on their deals.