Introduction: The Charm and Functionality of Side Tables
Side tables are not only practical additions to any living space but also serve as charming focal points that enhance the overall aesthetic. Crafting your own side table allows for personal customization and adds a unique touch to your decor. Plus, building a small piece like this is an achievable project, even for beginners, requiring minimal materials and tools.
Since end tables are compact, they demand only a modest amount of lumber, often just scraps from previous projects. For example, I had a leftover 1×8 poplar board with vibrant grain patterns that didn’t suit my last project. This leftover became the perfect material for creating a stylish, functional side table with wheels, inspired by a larger, more complex kitchen cart design. Incorporating a few pieces of aluminum angle iron, I coordinated the aesthetic to match the cart, resulting in a cohesive look.
Design Inspiration and Material Efficiency
This side table is an excellent example of a one-board project. Built from a single 1×8 board I previously used for a built-in desk, it demonstrates how to maximize material usage while creating something beautiful. By carefully planning your cuts, you can derive all necessary components from one board, reducing waste and saving money. If you lack ripping tools, scraps of 1×8, 1×6, and 1×2 boards can suffice, or you can purchase the exact sizes needed for a more polished finish.
Step-by-Step Building Process
Tools & Materials Needed
Recommended Tools:
- Miter saw (a sliding model is ideal for precision and ease)
- Pocket hole jig (such as the Kreg 720, 520, or 320 for versatility)
- Power drill
- Impact driver (for fast screw driving)
- Right angle clamp
- Face clamps
- Sander or sanding sponge
- Chisel or utility knife
Supplies:
- Wood materials: (1) 1×8 board (8 feet), or scrap pieces of 1×8, 1×6, and 1×2
- 1 inch aluminum angle iron (8 feet)
- 1 1/4-inch pocket hole screws
- Four figure-eight fasteners
- Self-etching primer and spray paint
- Four castor wheels
- 3/4-inch wood screws
Dimensions and Customization Options
The finished side table measures approximately 18 inches wide by 16.5 inches deep and stands about 20.75 inches tall without wheels. Adding 3-inch castor wheels elevates it to just under 24 inches. You can easily alter the height by adjusting leg lengths during cutting, tailoring it to your specific needs and preferences.
Cutting and Assembly Plan
Start by cutting all components according to the detailed diagrams included in the downloadable PDF plans. To ensure uniformity, use a clamp as a stop block on your miter saw, which guarantees precise and consistent cuts, resulting in a professional look. Additionally, cut the aluminum angle iron for the legs with standard tools, as aluminum is easy to work with.
Constructing the Table Top
Arrange the three board sections, paying attention to the grain and color patterns for a visually appealing surface. Set your pocket hole jig for 3/4-inch material and drill holes in the back edges of the center board. Apply wood glue along the edges and join the outer boards to form a seamless table top, clamping as you secure with pocket hole screws for a tight fit.
Building the Apron Frame
Create the supporting apron by drilling pocket holes at the ends of the shorter boards. Connect these to the longer apron pieces to form a box-like frame, using clamps to hold the pieces steady. Secure each joint with wood glue and pocket screws, ensuring a sturdy foundation for the table.
Creating the Lower Shelf
Lay out the lower shelf boards, deciding their orientation for aesthetic and structural reasons. Drill pocket holes on the edges of one board and attach the two together with glue and screws, forming the lower shelf platform that will support the structure.
Finishing Touches and Surface Treatments
Once assembled, finish each component to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. I sealed the table top and shelf with a clear finish to showcase the grain. The apron was painted black to match the legs, which were primed with an etching primer before applying three light coats of satin black spray paint. The screw heads for attaching the legs were also spray painted to blend seamlessly.
Final Assembly and Adding Mobility
Pre-drill holes for figure-eight fasteners on the inner sides of the apron. Secure these fasteners with short wood screws, then position the apron beneath the table top, aligning it centrally. Attach the apron to the top using 3/4-inch screws through the fasteners. To attach the aluminum legs, pre-drill and secure them to the apron, ensuring they are flush with the underside of the table surface. Flip the assembled frame over and insert the lower shelf between the legs, attaching it with painted screws. Finally, affix the castor wheels to the bottom of the lower shelf, completing your mobile side table.
Downloadable Plans and Additional Resources
For comprehensive guidance, including detailed cut diagrams, shopping lists, step-by-step instructions with 3D visualizations, and helpful tips, be sure to access the premium PDF plans. These resources will ensure your project is smooth and successful, giving you a professional-quality piece of furniture that you will cherish.
Additional Scrap Wood Projects
This project is part of our Scrap Wood Summer series, where each week in August, I share new woodworking ideas utilizing leftover materials. Save money and reduce waste by exploring other creative projects such as an Entryway Shelf with Mirror, Modern C Side Table, Yard Tool Organizer, and more. Stay tuned for inspiring builds and turn your scraps into beautiful, functional items!
Happy woodworking and enjoy crafting your personalized side table!