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Fancy X Farmhouse Table

dark wood stained farmhouse table with X legs and cross bracing
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Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build the Fancy X Farmhouse Table from 2x4s and lumber for $65.  A reader favorite, this table has been built thousands of times!  

We also have plans for a matching bench and lots more farmhouse furniture plans.

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Essential
side view of farmhouse table with cross bracing

 

 

Video - Watch this Table Being Built!  

 

See More Photos and Build Post

This table was built in collaboration with my friend Whitney from Shanty2Chic.  Whitney has a family of seven, and wanted to build a sturdy and strong farmhouse table with a little bit of fancy to it to dine on outdoors this summer.

This is my very favorite build yet! I have been in serious need for an outdoor table to seat my family of 7. When we stumbled upon a beautiful, long farmhouse table from Anthropologie, I knew it was love at first sight. Everything was perfect about it... Except that $2,000 price tag... Ouch. That hurts to even write. But... I knew who to call to help me make my own at a very small fraction of that cost! This baby only cost me $65!

Head over to visit Whitney at Shanty2Chic to get all the details, lots more photos, and a peek at her construction process!

 

Thanks Whitney!!!

Pin For Later! 

Fancy X Farmhouse Table

Dimensions
dimensions diagram of farmhouse table with X bracing
Dimensions are shown above.

Preparation

Shopping List

4 – 2x10 @ 8 feet long

7 – 2x4 @ 8 feet long

1 – 1x4 @ 12 feet long

3” self tapping wood screws 

2 ½” pocket hole screws

2” finish nails

Cut List

ENDS

  • 8 – 2x4 @ 11 3/8” (ends cut at 45 degrees off square, longest point measurement, NOT parallel)
  • 4 – 2x4 @ 20”
  • 4 – 1x4 @ 28 3/8” **
  • 8 – 2x4 @ 32 5/8” CUT TO FIT **
  • 4 – 1x4 @ 3 ½”

 

MAIN TABLE

  • 2 – 2x4 @ 65”
  • 2 – 2x4 @ 30 3/8” (both ends cut parallel at 45 degrees off square)
  • 4 – 2x10 @ 96”

 

** For 45 degree cut tops and bottoms (easier) on the legs top and bottom (see steps 3-5 and step 10), replace these cuts with:

  • 4 - 2x4 @ 31" (both ends cut at 45 degrees off square NOT parallel long point measurement)
  • 4 - 2x4 @ 34" (both ends cut at 45 degrees off square NOT parallel long point measurement)
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

Build four of these. I’d simply countersink screws from the backs into the ends of the cross braces using 2-1/2" self tapping wood screws

Step 2

Then just attach two of the leg pieces together with glue and 2” finish nails from each side

Step 3

And add the top/bottom. You can use 2” screws or nails here and glue.

Step 4

And then add the curved pieces. The ends may be a challenge – what I do is first cut a 2x4 32 5/8” long with both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends not parallel. Then make a second cut at 45 (or more if your saw cuts higher degree bevels) degrees off square and cut that same board 28 3/8”  short point to short point. 

Step 5

Repeat for the next layer of 2xs to build up your leg ends

Step 6

Followed by the little feet ...

Step 7

I'd recommend 1 1/2" PHs and 2 1/2" PH screws here ... hide on top and bottom edges

Step 8

The easiest way to attach cross braces is with pocket holes.  But you will have to fill later with wood filler.

An alternative is to glue and screw through the cross brace into the top and bottom 2x4s with longer screws.

Step 9

And finally the top! I recommend building the tabletop first with pocket holes and then attaching.

If you are using the table outdoors, leave a little space between the boards for water drainage.

Step 10

And for the alternate ends like Whitney did - just use 45 degrees off square cuts.

Step 11

For more photos and construction details, please stop over and visit Whitney at Shanty2Chic!

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
Table Plans
Dining Table Plans
Room
dining room
Style
Farmhouse Furniture

Comments

ferbit

Mon, 06/04/2012 - 10:35

DROOL!!!!!!!! This is absolutely gorgeous! I have got to find an excuse to build this! Whitney, your table turned out beautiful!!! LOVE the finish!

claydowling

Mon, 06/04/2012 - 18:07

I took a look at the original too. I like this version better.

If you wanted to simplify your build you could use 4x4 anyplace that the doubled 2x4s appear. That assumes, of course, that you can lay hands on good quality 4x4s, and you have the tools to work easily with 4x4s.

Elizabeth Rutkowski (not verified)

Mon, 06/04/2012 - 18:53

I am so going to see if my dad would help me make this (he's teaching me how to woodwork)!

Rhea (not verified)

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 05:28

LOVVVEEEEEE the table and have wanted a farmhouse table! Headed to buy lumber this morning, just need clarification on "45 degree angle off square, NOT parallel". I googled it and can only find it on AnaWhite.
Thanks so much! Can't wait to have my table:)

Lady Goats

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 08:51

You're just making two 45 degree cuts (on a miter saw), that are not parallel. With parallel cuts, you can just slide the board down and continue cutting, but in this case, you'll either have to adjust your miter saw to go to 45 degrees on the other side, or pick up the board, turn it, and make another cut (it'll look like /________\ instead of
/___________/ ). Hope I didn't confuse you more!

Stefan (not verified)

Thu, 08/30/2012 - 19:45

It looks like you could just halve all the width dimensions (instead of 4 - 2"x10" boards, use 2), and then the length and height can be done to your specifications. For length, instead of 8 feet long, I would go with 5 1/2 feet long (allowing enough room for the bench to slide under the table - somewhere around the length (65") of the bottom cross beam of the table - 2/3 of the length seems adequate). For the height, leave yourself enough leg room. Considering the table height is 30", I would get the bench height around 20" (use 2/3 - two-thirds - measurements).

I plan on making benches to these dimensions to match the table. I may tweak these numbers as I go, but they are somewhere in the ballpark.

Kimsims (not verified)

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 10:46

If someone makes this, can you please make a video of some of the more difficult steps? For instance, some of the diagrams don't specify where to put screws and it is confusing.

Heather Davis (not verified)

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 11:07

I LOVE this table, and I've been dreaming of an table like this for my patio. Do you have plans for benches that look similar to this? I found others on your website, but they don't "match". Which would be fine with me, just thought it would be cool to have similar benches too. Thanks!!!!

Milca (not verified)

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 15:37

Thinking of making it a little narrower and putting the brace to the back more so I can use this in my crafts room against a wall. Thank you Ana for the plans! We are renovating our whole house and a lot of my finishing touches ideas in the woodwork come from this site, and everyone loves the house :)

1916home.net (not verified)

Tue, 06/05/2012 - 23:33

You can also use bleach (household or pool) to accelerate the decomposition of the softer wood fibers. Apply the bleach, wrap the wood in Saran Wrap, and let the bleach do the work. After a day or so of soaking, unwrap and rinse the board; use a wire brush to remove the softened wood.

Soak a bat of 0000 (extra fine) steel wool in a 500-750ml jar full of vinegar (regular works fine, but "pickling vinegar" works better due to the higher acid content) overnight (8-12 hours). Pour through a coffee filter and then brush on your wood. Leave for 15 minutes and you'll see the wood grey. If it's not dark enough just repeat, but one application is generally plenty) Note: The liquid will still appear clear in the jar, that's OK....this process works through oxidization rather than pigments).

Jen Cunningham (not verified)

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 17:06

I have ALWAYS wanted a farmhouse table since there are 5 of us in the house and we do love to entertain at holidays too. I was excited to find this posted on Pinterest and even MORE excited when I showed my husband and he's game for building one. Someone had posted and asked about there being possible instructions for benches. Do any instructions like that exist (yet)?? Thanks so much!!

Micole (not verified)

Fri, 06/15/2012 - 08:27

Could you tell me what you would suggest changing to make this a 6ft table? I was planning to take the difference out of the 2x4s that join the ends, but then the cross braces wouldn't fit. Sorry if this is Something obvious, I am new to this kind of thing!

Thanks :)

Melissa R. (not verified)

Mon, 06/18/2012 - 14:02

I was thinking the same thing to put this in my dining room, but figured I could adjust the angle of the cross braces so that there is 12" between them on the bottom brace and it should work. The original table shows the cross braces with a lot more room between them so I think it would work fine.

bef0016

Tue, 04/21/2015 - 19:41

My current dining table was a vintage door that I attached brackets to it so that it is not physically screwed to it but sits on the frame and the weight and brackets holds it in place and keeps the top from moving. I am building this table for a friend and plan to do the same since the joined 2x10s will be very heavy once connected. I was going to use kreg jig to join the boards together with 2 1/2 screws

McBrayer (not verified)

Fri, 06/29/2012 - 08:28

LOVE this table! My husband and I are building one for our dining room this weekend.
We are going to put a bench on one side and chairs on the other.

I was wondering how many people you could fit on each side comfortably. I may need to adjust the measurements a little to accommodate everyone.

Thanks!!

I Rub (not verified)

Mon, 07/02/2012 - 03:33

Can anyone please specify screw locations for the build? For example, from where do you screw the curved pieces ?

I Rub

Tue, 07/03/2012 - 01:44

Can anyone please specify screw locations for the build? For example, from where do you screw the curved pieces ? What about the Tabletop ?

Barbara burns (not verified)

Mon, 07/23/2012 - 15:27

I also am new to wood working, but am in LOVE with this table. The only other projects I have tackled where very specific about each step. I have cut all the end pieces,and will also be adjusting the length by a foot, so will cut those later, but would love a little more info on screw placement, size, how best to hide them. I will be counter sinking and purchased a Kreg jig. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanx and keep creating, you inspire us all!

AmyTamy (not verified)

Mon, 07/30/2012 - 07:49

Hey, love it and plan on making it this weekend but im new at this and need some help understanding the cuts. when you say:

4 – 1x4 @ 28 3/8” **
8 – 2x4 @ 32 5/8” CUT TO FIT **

.....

** For straight cut legs replace these cuts with:
4 - 2x4 @ 31" (both ends cut at 45 degrees off square NOT parallel LP)
4 - 2x4 @ 34" (both ends cut at 45 degrees off square NOT parallel LP)

what does that mean? do i replace those cuts or they are not related at all? sorry, it just really confused me and if anyone could help, that would be great!

Amber Todd (not verified)

Mon, 09/10/2012 - 08:08

Thanks so much for the free plan! My hubby built this table one afternoon. It looks wonderful on our back covered porch! We made ours 6ft long so it wouldn't be so crunchy for walking area. I paired it with wicker/metal patio chairs from Sears. I can't wait to stain and distress it! :)

CarrieJ (not verified)

Tue, 09/11/2012 - 13:47

Are people really building this at $65???

ckp (not verified)

Sun, 09/23/2012 - 13:51

My husband built this table and the two smaller benches (we want to put captains chairs at the ends) this weekend. He bought all of the lumber, a $100 Kreg Jig, stain, and screws for $300. The ENTIRE project $300!

Pearidge Concrete (not verified)

Sat, 10/06/2012 - 21:20

I recently built this table and I managed the build this table for around $45.
According to the cut list you need 7 -2x4 but I needed 8 somehow.
At my local lumber yard this is what it cost me.
4-2x10@8foot =$19.36
8-2x4@8foot = $19.04
1-1x4@12foot =$3.12
1- box of 3" screws =$2.37
Kregg Jig= borrowed. (I will be buying one)
Wood Glue= Had on hand
Stain=had on hand
Total =$43.89 before tax

Even if you didnt use the Kregg Jig and had to buy wood glue and stain you can still get by at around $60.

Totally doable.

Chris from Mordy (not verified)

Sat, 09/29/2012 - 04:31

Hi there Whitney, this is my first time on the Ana White site but I am so impressed with these super designs, you are very clever. I am converting it to metrics and please excuse me if this is a silly question, but in the cut list when I add up the 2x4 (5 cuts), I get 52 feet. But the shopping list says buy 56 feet, luckily for me my timber merchant is cutting it all for so I wanted to double check that that I am not missing something with the missing 4 feet? I have read the designs and can't find it. Could you confirm? Many thanks, Chris

Dina M. (not verified)

Fri, 10/12/2012 - 05:56

I was wondering if you used a better quality wood, like cedar or redwood, if you could go with 1 x 4's instead of the 2 x 4's. I'm concerned about the strength but know that the better quality wood is stronger than the cheap stuff...any thoughts? Thanks!

Ashley Rush (not verified)

Fri, 10/12/2012 - 10:51

Forgive my ignorance, but what are PH screws? And how many do you need for the table?

Sunny Espanet (not verified)

Thu, 10/18/2012 - 17:20

Ashley, PH means Pocket Hole screws. Used with the Kreg Jig which produces pocket holes. Go to Whitney's site to see a pic with an example of pocket holes (in the stretcher going between the two "legs" of the table)

David Milligan (not verified)

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 00:23

Step 1 places the 20" upright. I'm struggling with the math here... the table is meant to be 29 3/4" tall in total, but if the thickness of all the horizontals and the top total 13" (1" for the feet, 2" + 2" + 1" for both the bottom and top of the end pieces, plus another 2" for the table top), this leaves only 16 3/4" for the uprights. I can't get my head around how they're supposed to be 20" and still produce a table 29 3/4" tall. And where does the fraction of an inch come from?? Help please...

johannajanelle

Sat, 02/02/2013 - 07:02

david did you figure out this height measurement? we are struggling with the same thing right now.

Guest Brian (not verified)

Tue, 10/30/2012 - 06:19

Im trying to do this project at home, no one at the hardware store is familiar with the term PH screws. I was wondering if theres an alternate name to ask for them by?

JoanneS

Tue, 10/30/2012 - 07:22

Hi Guest Brian, these might be called pocket hole screws, Kreg screws, washer head pocket screws. In our local Lowes there are 2 brands available, the Kreg brand screws (here's a link)

http://www.lowes.com/pd_71600-39450-SML-C250+-+50_0__?productId=3043293…

and the Hillman brand (works exactly like kreg brand), here's a link

http://www.lowes.com/pd_12513-37672-42171_4294710855__?productId=330582…

I've only seen the Kreg brand of pocket hole jigs and drill bits at our local Lowes. These links both have a picture you can show the salesperson.
Hope this helps?
Joanne

Mandy Thompson (not verified)

Sun, 11/04/2012 - 17:32

This table is so simple to build! Love the farm look. Looking for matching benches to build to go with it! Thanks for sharing all these amazing plans! I have. Family of 8 and we needed a bigger dining room table, this is perfect and definitely way more durable than any of that "cheap stuff" you find in a furniture store! Looking forward to many many years of meal time memories at my new table!

Amber Heller (not verified)

Thu, 11/15/2012 - 09:50

I just found this site the other from Pinterest and I must say I have fallen in love. I love the video section and the great instruction on how to build your own furniture. I must say you have inspired me.

I was wanting to know if you had a kid version of the x farmhouse table. I would love to attempt to build one for my three little boys. :)

grant (not verified)

Thu, 11/15/2012 - 22:19

I want to stack two 2x4s (join them together with glue, nails and wood filler) to make the mitered boards for the table ends look thicker like 4x4s. Perhaps even turn the board so the seam is facing floor/ceiling. Any suggestions on how to get the dimensions/angles right for that?

Anonymous Coward (not verified)

Fri, 11/16/2012 - 00:44

Grant - Stack the 8-foot boards, glue them and clamp them every foot or so. After they have dried, make the cuts through the stack ... you will need a 10" miter saw to cut a doubled 2x4

The cut at the longest dimension will be the same: 11 3/8" with the finished board looking like this: /___ \

Guest Leala (not verified)

Mon, 11/19/2012 - 16:08

Hi,

Love this table and am wanting to make this for a Christmas party this year. I am wondering how the plans could be modified to suit a square table to seat 12 people?
Also are their bench seat plans to go with this plan?
I have seen the other comments above bu thought perhaps you may be emailing them to people.

Thanks
Can't wait to make this table it is gorgeous

Peyton Sherwood (not verified)

Sun, 12/09/2012 - 16:32

i need to know how to make benches if i could get demention that would be great. im am building this for a chirtmas present for my wife.

WandaR (not verified)

Sat, 12/22/2012 - 11:35

I think i have it figured on how to screw everything together except for the table top. How do you attach the 4 2x10s together and then to the tables base?

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!