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Rustic X Console Table

ana white rustic x console table
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Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build the super popular Rustic X Console Table with Ana White plans.  This woodworking project has been built thousands of times and loved the world over.  Its made of construction lumber (yes, 2x4s!) and the plans are easy to follow.  

Also in this Collection: Rustic X Coffee Table Plans, Rustic X End Table Plans and Rustic X Bench Plans

Collections
Rustic X Collection
ana white rustic x console table
ana white rustic x console table
ana white rustic x console table
ana white rustic x console table
ana white rustic x console table

Rustic X Console Features

  • Solid wood design accepts stain beautifully and paints up nicely
  • Extra long length perfect behind sofas, sectionals, as a dining room buffet, or under the TV
  • Storage shelves perfect for displaying and storing 
  • Storage shelves fit most standard baskets
  • Beautiful planked top is full of texture
  • Step by step plans have no exposed screw holes

 

This beautiful Rustic X Console was built by Hillary from The Friendly Home.  I encourage you to take a second to stop over to The Friendly Home and read more about Hillary building this console, the finish she used, and the story behind those beautiful quilts!

 

Easier to Build Option: Farmhouse Console Table Plans

For beginner or novice builders, we have added a easy to build option for this plan, the Farmhouse Console Table plans.  It does NOT require pocket hole screws and is less expensive to build (but there is exposed screw holes).  There is also a video tutorial to help with the build.

 

 

Pin For Later! 

Rustic X Console Table

Dimensions
rustic x bench plans dimensions diagram
Dimensions are shown above.

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 6 – 2x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 3 – 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 – 1x12 @ 12 feet long
  • 3 – 2x6 @ stud length or 8 feet
  • Corner hardware/decorative bolts
  • 1 1/4" and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws
  • 2 1/2" screws
Common Materials
1-1/4" Pocket Hole Screws
2-1/2" Pocket Hole Screws
Cut List
  • 12 – 2x2 @ 30”
  • 6 – 2x4 @ 28 1/2"
  • 2 – 1x12 @ 63 1/2"
  • 5 – 2x4 @ 11 1/4"
  • 2 – 2x2 @ 11 1/4"
  • 2 – 2x2 @ 22 1/2" (long point to short point, ends parallel, cut at 60 degrees off square)
  • 4 – 2x2 @ 11 1/4" (longest point to shortest point, long end cut at 60 degrees off square, short point cut at 30 degrees off square, angles are in same direction)
  • 3 – 2x6 @ 74 1/2"
Cutting Instructions

NOTE: If your saw does not cut 60 degrees off square, you will need to mark cuts with an angle square or compass/protractor and cut angles with circular saw or jigsaw. Practice this cut first on scraps!

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Hammer
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Miter Saw
Power Sander
General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

First build two frames as shown in diagram.

Step 2

Then attach frames to shelves. NOTE: I recommend drilling 3/4" pocket holess with Kreg Jig around all sides of each shelf for attaching all shelf trim with 1 1/4" Pocket Hole screws later on.

Step 3

2x4 end supports need to be the same width as your 1x12 boards - expected to be 11 1/4" wide. Measure the width of your 1x12s and cut the 2x4 supports to match this width.

Attach to frames and shelves. For attaching to frames, use 1-1/2" pocket holes with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Step 4

Add trim to the shelf.

Step 5

The X can be cut by just placing the uncut board alongside it's permanent position, and marking the overlap with a pencil, and then cutting the pencil lines with a circular saw or jigsaw.

First do the longer piece, then place inside the project, but don't attach yet.

The figure the smaller piece cuts and make those cuts.

Fit the smaller pieces in the project, and trace where they need to be joined to the larger piece.

Remove all pieces and attach the smaller pieces to the longer piece.

Then place the entire X inside the opening and attach.

Step 6

And then add the top. You can build top first with 1 1/2" pocket holes and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws and then attach to top through 2x4/2x2 aprons or just plank the top for a rustic look - it's up to you.

TIP: Just use your 2 1/2" pocket hole screws to attach the top so you don't have to go out and buy more 2 1/2" screws.

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Project Type
Console Table Plans
Media and Entertainment Centers
Room
dining room
living room
Style
Farmhouse Furniture
Rustic Furniture Plans

Comments

spiceylg

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 09:58

Love this table, I had pinned Centsational Girl's table as well! Hillary you did a fab job! I think it has now been placed on my must build list! My hubby is going to think I'm crazy, because his concept of must have is too practical for me, ha!

linseylouwho

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 10:26

I LOVE this table! I have a wall in my home that I've been looking for a console table for! One that is HALF this size would be perfect! I mean PERFECT!! Only one little problem...I STINK at math. How about plans for one that is half as wide. That would be awesome. Thanks

Winter300

Tue, 04/05/2016 - 11:50

So, the overall width would end up being 8 1/4 inches, with the inside pieces being 5 5/8s.  Everything else would pretty much be the same, though I am not sure what the angle on the X pieces would be.  To do that, you can just hold the piece up and scribe it.  With all that being said, be advised that lopping it in half might throw the proportions off enough to make it look odd. 

Anonymous Coward (not verified)

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 11:22

It's Iron Acetate ... otherwise known as "Steel wool dissolved in vinegar" and brushed on. And strong black tea. Followed by waxing, but you could use a wipe-on polyurethane if you wanted.

INGREDIENTS:
One "pillow" of extra-fine steel wool
1 Gallon of cheap white vinegar
A box of harsh, cheap black tea (maybe)

Shred the steel wool and stuff it into the vinegar jug. Leave the cap loose! Set it aside for several days, swirling it occasionally to check the progress. The bubbles are hydrogen gas. When the steel wool is gone, your stain is ready.

Check it on a scrap piece ... brush it on and it should turn greyish as it dries. If it's too dark, dilute the iron acetate with water 50:50 and test another scrap.

For a more intense grey, you need tannin. Brew up some really strong black tea (use a lot of bags and boil it till it's really undrinkably dark)

Brush the tea on and let it dry, then apply the iron acetate solution. If it's too dark, dilute the iron acetate with water 50:50 and test another scrap.

This is a great stain for blending repaired spots into a fence - load a garden sprayer with 50:50 iron acetate and water and spray the new wood.

Hillary (not verified)

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 12:00

I used organic tea because it was what I had on hand and let it steep for a few hours. Worked like a charm!

Anonymous Coward (not verified)

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 11:23

It's Iron Acetate ... otherwise known as "Steel wool dissolved in vinegar" and brushed on. And strong black tea. Followed by waxing, but you could use a wipe-on polyurethane if you wanted.

INGREDIENTS:
One "pillow" of extra-fine steel wool
1 Gallon of cheap white vinegar
A box of harsh, cheap black tea (maybe)

Shred the steel wool and stuff it into the vinegar jug. Leave the cap loose! Set it aside for several days, swirling it occasionally to check the progress. The bubbles are hydrogen gas. When the steel wool is gone, your stain is ready.

Check it on a scrap piece ... brush it on and it should turn greyish as it dries. If it's too dark, dilute the iron acetate with water 50:50 and test another scrap.

For a more intense grey, you need tannin. Brew up some really strong black tea (use a lot of bags and boil it till it's really undrinkably dark)

Brush the tea on and let it dry, then apply the iron acetate solution. If it's too dark, dilute the iron acetate with water 50:50 and test another scrap.

This is a great stain for blending repaired spots into a fence - load a garden sprayer with 50:50 iron acetate and water and spray the new wood.

Cindy from Indiana (not verified)

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 11:25

I would type how much I love this table, but I'm feeling faint because my heart is pitter-pattering! ;-) /jk

Love it, love it, love it!

LisaT

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 11:47

Ok, I am getting addicted to building things and these plans aren't helping!lol Thanks so much for all your awesomeness! This is great!

RBear

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 16:12

I LOVE this table!! But I want to upsize it like the from Pottery Barn and add the drawers.
Any ideas how to add the drawers? The unit has open sides. Would a drawer slide underneath the drawer work here? I have only used the side mounted drawer slides.

Hillary (not verified)

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 22:26

Hi, RBear. Yes, I looked at the inspiration piece assuming someone would want to make it with the drawers and so I've thought about it a bit. To build it like the inspiration piece you'd need to use undermount slides and attach them to the middle shelf so they wouldn't be visible from the sides. I did it on a big storage bench I made last year and it took a bit to figure out the drawers, but it wasn't rocket science. I actually used two center-mount slides per drawer and just lined them up so they were perfectly parallel, because the drawers were heavy. These drawers might be light enough for just one center-mount slide each. (http://thefriendlyhome.blogspot.com/2011/01/game-storagecheck.html) If I were doing drawers, I'd use 1x10s for the drawer body and face and place the middle shelf so that the clearance for the 1x10 drawer would be right. I think right now the space is 10 1/2" and the 1x10s would be 9 1/2" or 9 1/4" depending on what kind you use, so you'd need to move the bottom shelf up a hair to accommodate the drawers exactly.

Good luck!

Ante

Wed, 07/10/2013 - 13:00

Quick question.. did you use spruce on all the X projects? thanks ahead of time and everything you did looks great.

tracysmith

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 16:41

So, my mom comes over today and says she needs a new tv console and I pull up Ana's site to give her some ideas and voila, the answer is the very first thing she sees - this table! We're going to modify it a bit to fit her needs but as soon as I have this baby built, I'll post some pictures in a brag post! Thanks for posting the plans, she's gonna love this!!!!

jenn923

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 18:10

I love this console table and I'm thinking it would be a great media console...I'll have to make some modifications to fit my living room though. But I also need a coffee table...any way you could do a coffe table plan? Pretty please! :)

Jake

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 20:00

What is a PH screw. I am sure I will feel stupid when you tell me but I have to ask.

tracysmith

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 01:00

PH is short for Pocket Hole screw. They are specific screws made for a pocket hole system. No question is a stupid question on this site. We're all here to to help and encourage each other. Keep 'em coming!!!

IansMama

Thu, 07/25/2013 - 13:04

I posted a questions to this thread, however, I'm not sure you see it unless I reply directly to your post. I'm just wondering exactly how many pocket hole screws are used on each trim section attaching to shelves, and their approx. placement on the piece. Thanks so much!

Keri

Mon, 05/21/2012 - 21:37

I really do play on making this, but first I'm going to try out the finish on the (modified) loft bed that's sitting in my "workshop" (read:kitchen, at least until we get the garage set up right) waiting for me to finish sanding it. I was wanting something more "rustic" like this to match the idea I have for my boys room - almost like they could have been stranded in some jungle somewhere and this is their tree fort. Or at least fort....the tree part is a lot more work, or takes wall painting by someone more artistic than I. Thanks, "Anonymous Coward" for posting the directions!

Jake

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 04:04

Thanks TracySmith. I use my Kreg Jig all the time. In fact I just finished the frame for a new gate and it was built with PH joints. I learn something new every day.

jaime6891

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 09:28

I love it! I can't wait to get started on it during the long weekend. Great job!

Kathyy (not verified)

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 15:25

Showed this to my husband last night and he was as excited as I was . We have been looking for a console table and all I find are just not a good fit, but yours is perfect! Love your blog - the directions are great and we can't wait to get started!

annalea

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 15:33

Lots of compliments, too, but complements, first. Isn't there a way to cut the complement of the 60-degree angle? Maybe by cutting the board to the length it needs to be at the very point of the angled cut (the longest dimension), then turning the board 90-degrees and cutting a 30-degree angle? (90 - 60 = 30) That would create a 60-degree angle at the other end of the mitered cut. The sum of the angles of a triangle are always 180, and a mitered cut on the end of a board can be figured like a right triangle. 90 degrees is already taken for the right angle (which is a place you're not cutting), so the two angles left have to add up to 90.

I haven't run into the 50-degree limitation, so this is just a guess on a new way to use a saw . . .

But . . .

I do know, from sewing and paper piecing, that it's possible to turn and flip and do all kinds of crazy things with things you cut in order to get what you need at the end. ;o)

Hope this helps! (HTH!)

franky (not verified)

Fri, 06/01/2012 - 09:06

wow...this is such a great tutorial..thank you so much for sharing! need to try this at home asap!

sosloe (not verified)

Fri, 06/01/2012 - 09:50

This is a great piece, I dig the rustic style. I really like the decorative corner hardware and bolts. Any guide or suggestions on how to 'age' new hardware you can buy at home depot to get that weathered/old look? :)

Hillary (not verified)

Mon, 06/04/2012 - 13:39

The hardware I used was shiny new stuff from Lowe's. I just painted it with flat black spray paint. It would be fun to work with multiple coats of spray paint. Maybe some turquoise, some rust colored, with a little sanding to let the undercoat show. So many possibilities!

Maitai396 (not verified)

Thu, 06/14/2012 - 10:51

Love this piece. I too would need it to be a bit more shallow. I was wondering if you recall how much it cost to make this?

adam (not verified)

Fri, 07/20/2012 - 13:12

This is great! I'm definitely going to give this one a try. Would you recommend staining the wood pieces before assembling?

adam (not verified)

Fri, 07/20/2012 - 13:14

This is great! I'm definitely going to give this one a try. Would you recommend staining the wood pieces before assembling?

Hillary (not verified)

Tue, 08/07/2012 - 23:20

For this I think you're better off putting it together and then staining. You'll want to get the ends of the planked top sanded uniformly before staining, which is easier to do if you assemble first. Good luck!

RobKelly3

Thu, 08/30/2012 - 07:54

Hi there! I'm so happy to have found your site. And I LOVE this table. It's going to go perfectly in my apartment. I just have a few very quick questions that i hope you can help me with. Please forgive my lack of proper terminology..I'm still learning.

1. Did you put PH in the aprons and 2x4's to attach the top? Or, did you just screw straight down through the legs and aprons? Any preference there?

2. Do you think that using a piece of plywood for the top with nosing around the edges could work for the top?

3. When you drill a pocket hole, do you have predrill the other piece as well?

Thank you so much for this site and for your time. :)

hillarylouise

Wed, 09/05/2012 - 18:30

We're all still learning. There's nothing pretentious about Ana's site so you never have to be afraid to ask questions! That's what makes it so great.

Answers for you:
1. No. I turned the table upside down and drilled and screwed straight down through the aprons into the underside of the top. It's definitely the easiest way to do it. I can't remember whether I pre-drilled, but if you have a countersink bit (I do not) that might be the way to go. I think I just put a lot of weight into it and since the wood is relatively soft, the head of the screw buried itself. You could do pocket holes on the insides of the aprons instead

2. I suppose ply would work, but you'd lose the rustic-ness and character of the piece. If you are going for a more refined looking table, ply will be perfect.

3. No, don't pre-drill the other piece. The pocket hole screws (definitely use actual pocket hole screws) are made to be self-tapping so they don't split the wood on the other side. That's what makes pocket hole construction super easy for newbies like us. :)

steelmagnolia

Sun, 04/27/2014 - 06:39

After attempting to build this with my husband, we've run into a few problems. The 2x2's often split when we try to connect them to the 2x4's.. I'm not sure what we're missing here or what we're doing incorrectly.. My husband is an experienced builder, and even he can't figure out what's going on. We are using another brand of a pocket hole system.. Could that be it? Hope you can help..??

After this happened I did some research on the screws and I read an article that explained the difference between self-tapping and self-drilling screws.. Self-tapping screws are not meant for wood projects as they do not provide proper reinforcement. Were you perhaps just using that term interchangeably?

Link to Article: http://www.ehow.com/list_7574951_differences-between-selftapping-selfdr…

Phestr

Fri, 08/31/2012 - 18:01

My wife has discovered your site, and I am so happy. Don't get me wrong, I like trying to figure out what she wants me to build from a quick description and a "Kinda like this" browse of the internet, but life is so much asier when she hands me a plan and says, "Build this".
Now, I do have a question. Is there a way to get Sketchup Models from you? I need to build this table with different dimensions, and it'd be easier to modify if I had the orginal model. Love the site, I'll be here often.

hillarylouise

Wed, 09/05/2012 - 18:35

Hey, Phestr. I'm going to answer this for Ana because I don't know whether she'll see your question. If you contact her directly (try messaging her on FB to get in touch with her -- she's at Knock-Off Wood) you might be able to get the model. But, it might be faster to re-do the dimensions on your own. Good luck!

Phestr

Wed, 09/05/2012 - 19:25

I'll try that route. I'm not in a terrible hurry, this table is about #3 on my build list.

emilybemly (not verified)

Sun, 09/02/2012 - 20:40

I am going to build this table, if you wouldnt mind, could you please post some pictures of the places where the wood joins to I can just see what its spose to look like? Beautiful table, I cant wait to get started!

hillarylouise

Wed, 09/05/2012 - 18:38

The hex bolts and corner brackets are from Lowe's. They're silver ones found in the hardware aisle -- the corner brackets come in 2-packs, I think. They're "Stanley" brand. The hex bolts are from the bulk bins. They're 1/2" size, if I remember right. I sprayed them all with flat black spray paint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!