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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

snomii

Wed, 09/11/2013 - 12:13

Owning my first home, I'm a real novice when it comes to wood-working. But I do have a knack for it, so I can't wait to give my hammer hands a go! This console is exactly what I was looking for for my newly renovated kitchen! Thank you for posting it. I can't wait to try it!! I'm blogging about my kitchen reno, and posted about this... that's how excited I am!!

somiskitchen.blogspot.com

Wade Arthur

Thu, 10/03/2013 - 08:48

I have drilled out all of the PH 3/4 of an inch around the outside of the shelves. When I did a test on a 1x12 scrap piece of wood to see how far the 1 1/4 inch screw went though. The screw came out the other side of the wood less then 3/16. Any help on what i am doing wrong?

dfreedman

Sat, 11/02/2013 - 23:59

Ana, where can I pick up the decorative hardware such as the corner hardware and decorative bolts??? Very cool plan, looking to build the X console, two end tables, and the coffee table for our living room. Thanks in advance.

pdxbrit

Mon, 11/25/2013 - 08:54

Great article, my x-console is now awaiting a coat of oxidizing solution before being sanded again and finished with PolyWhey. A quick tip for folks whose compound mitre saws cannot get the angle they want (I modified the plans slightly, so I needed to hit a 27° angle). Use your 45° metal quick square to offset the angle.

For example to get the 27° angle I would have used 63° on my mitre saw, but mine maxes out at 61.5°, so instead wedge your 45° quick square between the saw guide and the piece you're cutting and set your mitre saw to 63°-45°=18°. Bingo you end up with the cut you need.

Can't wait to have this one finished so I can start on your farmhouse bedroom tables next!

dfreedman

Sun, 12/01/2013 - 21:12

I've started my cuts and PH drilling to get things prepped for assembly when my 2.5" PH screws arrive (local HW store didn't have them).

It seems to me that given the few checks that I've made, not everything is perfectly square. I don't have a Kreg assembly table, I have a workbench (bench solutions) and some bar clamps. My intention is to try to clamp pieces to my bench as I assemble with PH screws to get the best joints. I've read that in building furniture having everything square is really important. I mean, of course I want the thing to sit FLAT on the floor when I'm done without it wobbling around. I took time to get the straightest boards I could find. I checked the miter saw I'm using and the fence is square and does not move. I cut all pieces using the same saw. Am I missing something? How do you get every angle on your piece of furniture perfectly square? Am I just being anal retentive? If I'm going to spend a couple of days at this, I just want to wind up with a good piece at the end.

OK, sanding. I bought 120 and 220 grit paper and I have a palm sander. How do I know when I've done a good sanding job? How much sanding is too much sanding? I'm not trying to change the dimensions of my board or go crazy, I've just not prepped for finishing before. I honestly just don't know what is "good enough" versus "not good enough" when it comes to sanding.

Last, finishing. I purchased several stains which I'll be trying on scraps from the same lumber I bought to build the project. I'm not so concerned about the staining process as finishing. I asked a guy at Home Depot about Poly Satin finish. I told him I didn't really want the piece to be shiny, more "matte" but protected, so he recommended a finishing wax so that's what I picked up. Any advice on how best to use this and get the best results? Any tutorials out there?

Sorry for all the questions and thanks in advance for anyone who takes the time to try to help me. Cheers.

Lady Goats

Mon, 12/02/2013 - 07:29

First, square. Cutting is the first place to screw this up and the most difficult to fix. The best way I've learned to check is to make a cut at the end of a board (should be done anyway since not all board'd ends are square) and see if it's cutting square. The fence on the saw may be squared, but the blades have a tendency to shift (and easily, in my case). If it's square, you're good to go. Just make sure to check often.

If it's not square, either google "How to square up a miter saw" (using your saws manufacturer or model number in the search will help with your particular saw) or, if you have your instruction manual still, check there. The first time may take a while, but it's a good thing to learn to do as miter saws come out of square often. After you get it squared up, make your cuts and check that it's square often.

When assembling, the method you described should work. Just make sure that you check for square at every joint.

Sanding. Ohhhh sanding. I hate sanding. Most of the time, sanding is best done before the piece is assembled. You may have to sand after it's assembled if the joints don't line up perfectly, but it's easier to do a final sanding than to do all of your sanding once it's assembled.

I don't ever take my own advice, however, and always end up sanding after it's assembled.

I would start with a lower sanding grit. Usually 60 or 80. I've started with 120 before, however. It took a little longer, but it got the job done. Go over each board thoroughly (if you're afraid you won't be thorough, you can draw over the entire board with a pencil before sanding, and you know you've done it well when there is no more pencil left on the board) with the lower number grit and then do the same with the higher number grit. The board should feel very smooth when you're finished with no splintering.

Finishing. I would suggest following the directions on the back of the can. People use furniture wax and paste with great results, but techniques vary with each brand (this is my way of not being very helpful :-p).

dfreedman

Sun, 12/15/2013 - 22:08

Thanks for the response.

I checked my saw, everything is square. I double checked my boards since I didn't cut the ends of the boards I purchased, those were square too. I do have some warped boards which are presenting a bit of a challenge. I did my best to pick the best available but still wound up with some junk it seems. Almost everything fit together nearly perfectly except a couple of pieces. As an example, one of my 2x4s which connects the 'front frame' to the 'back frame' sticks out the side further than I'd like, it's not flush with the sides of the legs like it's supposed to be. So my shelf is just slightly too long. Grr. Can I use a hand plane or something to shave off some wood and fix this? Oh well, it's my first piece.

My 1-1/4" PH screws were poking through my 2x2s when attaching the shelves. Not desired. Had Kreg Jig set to proper settings so that's not supposed to happen but I saw nobody else post about that here. Also my Kreg Jig came with a 6" square bit for the PH screws, so that along with the size of my drill made it very difficult to get an angle on the pieces joining the front and back frames together.

Sanding. I agree, on the next project I will absolutely sand before assembly then do a final after assembly. Sanding while assembled is a pain.

I got several stains. I recommend taking some scrap and trying one or more coats of stain to see what depth of color can be acheived. Depending on the color, a second coat can make a big difference. Try layering multiple stain colors, you will be surprised how this doest always yield the color you thought it would. Also the longer the stain stays on the darker it gets. If you want to be really anal, time what you're doing so you can repeat your scrap results on your final piece. Highly recommend experimenting on scrap before attempting to stain your actual piece.

Tried the wax finish. Was looking for more of a matte / natural looking finish without the reflective type shine. The guy at Home Depot rexommended the wax even over the satin poly urethane finish for the look I'm going for. You can rub it on, it goes on very thin and it will dry in about 15min, let it dry longer though depending on ambient temperature. Then go back and polish it with a clean smooth cloth (I used a staining cloth). You can get a very mild shine by buffing out the wax... barely noticeable but slightly more shine than just the bare wood with the stain on it. Looks and feels great. No multiple coats needed with sanding in between each one. Much less work if you're impatient but still want to protect your wood. Annual upkeep will be necessary I assume but as this is a decorative piece for us I'm not too concerned about it taking a massive beating.

This is my first project (aside from simple step stool which I don't consider real furniture like this piece). I'm learning a lot. It's not rocket science but it is more difficult to make a 'perfectly fitted' piece of furniture out of cheap pine or in my case douglas fir than you think. The plans / instructions are great. For me the lack of the level of quality I'd like to acheive is definitely part lack of experience (zero woodshop classes / skills) along with probably lack of proper technique or tools to ensure precision cuts and measurements. I think proper fit is the first most important thing to make your piece look great. Others won't notice your mistakes so easily but you will always know where they are and they will bug you. Second, I think do not rush through sanding or prepping your wood with pre-stain conditioner. Finally, test your desired finish on scrap to ensure a satisfactory look on your final piece. Take your time. If there's one thing I've learned it's that making even just 'decent' furniture is not a rush job and making fine furniture will require tons of practice.

Cheers!

dfreedman

Sun, 12/15/2013 - 22:32

Lots of people have asked (including myself) and then I realized this has been answered several times already.

I shopped around but couldn't really find what I wanted so I did what others on the forum have done.

I bought 1/2" (width) x 1" (length) coarse threaded stainless hex bolts at hime depot. Ask a clerk they will take you right to them. They only had 1" depth in stainless at my store which was annoying. I could have got 3/8" x 1" non-stainless instrad for half the price but on a piece this size I wanted the larger bolts as I think the 3/8" will look too small. I plan to pre-drill my holes. Spray paint flat black (I found a can for $0.99).

L-straps / brackets at Home Depot too. You COULD get 1-1/2" wide straps, technically these should be the same width as your 2x4s (which are really 1-1/2" wide), but I wouldn't go this wide on the straps unless you want your kids banging their heads on these sharp metal corners. I'd rather they bonk wood than metal. So I went with slightly less wide straps, maybe 1". This would leave 1/4" on top and bottom of the strap when mounted which also isn't a bad look to still see some of the wood there. Same, spray paint flat black.

Hope this helps.

Shamroxx

Sat, 12/28/2013 - 17:50

Hello! I'm new to the site, and to building things in general. I was wondering if someone could give me some advice on something in Step 1 for this plan. I was wondering how everyone else goes about clamping their 2x2 and 2x4 in place when building their frames for this console. Is there a special clamp I would need to clamp them together so that I can screw them together without any shifting?

Also, am I under the right assumption that the actual dimensions of the 2x2 are 1 1/2 x 1 1/x2"? I purchased some earlier today, and noticed they're about 1/4" thinner than the 2x4's that I have. I was thinking this would create issues when trying to put the board for the shelf in since the 2x2 wouldn't be flush with the facing of the 2x4.

If anyone out there can help guide me along the way, I truly would appreciate it! Thank you to anyone who responds in advance!

dfreedman

Thu, 01/02/2014 - 08:44

Clamping:
I have a workbench and some Irwin bar clamps (search Home Depot / Lowes). I put one side of the clamp on the underside of my workbench and the other side on top of one of the frame pieces (clamping a frame piece to the bench to hold it very still). I used a couple of clamps to hold the board very still. Then I just held the other pieces in place as I fasted my PH screws. The piece you are holding will 'pull away' from the other board at first, but once the PH joints tighten up, everything should be flush. This worked out well enough for me but it would have been nice to have a Kreg Right Angle Clamp (search Google).

Dimensions:
Most lumber is slightly short of the dimensions listed (nominal size). Google search 'commercial lumber sizes, engineers edge' they have a nice chart for you. The 2x2s should be just as thick as your 2x4s. Meaning if you look at the 'front frame' (for example) you should have (3) 2x4s (vertical) and (6) 2x2s (horizontal). The 2x2s should be the same thickness as the 2x4s... meaning that when assembled, the front of the 2x2 will be flush with the front of the 2x4 and the back of the 2x2 will also be flush with the back of the 2x4. I had no problems with this. Take a tape measure with you to the lumber yard when purchasing, know what you are getting before you buy when following plans. Also, the front and back frame 2x2s will be 'thicker' than the shelf board that you mount between them. I didn't see this as a problem really, I just flush mounted the shelf to the top side of the 2x2s and called it good. Pretty sure everyone else is doing the same.

Happy New Year

chlag

Thu, 01/02/2014 - 21:44

Thanks for the X console plans. I have modified it to make a TV console and really does the work. It looks amazing.

ar377

Mon, 01/13/2014 - 13:57

What happened to my question I asked last week? Weird.

Did anyone build theirs taller than 30 inches? 30 inches seems a little short to me.

tedgray86

Tue, 01/21/2014 - 11:57

What color stain was used on this project? We like the farmhouse/rustic look.

Thanks

Ted

Mommy_Wong_Wegs

Tue, 01/21/2014 - 22:29

I am new here, but I LOVE this site. It's the most inspirational and empowering thing I've come across in a long while. I love this console and many other projects and I love that there is a list of tools that are needed. On this project it says a compound miter saw is needed. What size? For this type of project what are the best tools to a girl should invest in? If everything can be done with a smaller, less expensive tool then I don't want to buy a bigger, higher priced tool. Do you have a link somewhere on the site that I might be missing that gives a list of tools that will be frequently used on these types of projects? Sorry for all the questions, I don't mean to be a pest. I am just really impressed with you girls and inspired to try some new things.

khuckaby

Sun, 02/09/2014 - 15:13

We are making this to donate for an auction for a non-profit I'm involved in. Any ideas on FMV (they need it for the program & tax deductions)?

Cindylee

Fri, 04/04/2014 - 23:21

I will like to have the same color on my console what is the step by step to have this this result on my table! Thanks!!

lovinridgebacks

Wed, 04/30/2014 - 13:30

So, I'm wondering if people typically use the pocket hole fillers in all the holes or is that just for anal people. If so, what is the process in filling the holes?

balloongal247

Fri, 05/09/2014 - 12:36

Does anyone know what the weight limit for this would be? I thought it would be nice to make this with a foam bench seat, as described by one of the chair posts, to put at my kitchen bar in place of old counter height stools currently used mostly as bag rests.

My question is, would it be strong enough for two or three smallish adults to sit on, should the occasion arise? (So, could it hold 300-400lb safely?) I'd probably just use the cheapest grade of lumber, since this might be my first project, and I don't want to invest too much with a bunch of beginners building it. I will buy a kreg jig before working on any projects, so it would be put together with pocket hole construction.

wthalin

Thu, 07/03/2014 - 07:28

Hello,

Has anyone used these plans and shrunk them down to make a bench? I am planning on making a bench that doubles as a media cabinet. Dimensions will be 60Wx18Hx14D and I was wondering if this will be sturdy enough for 3 people to sit on it. I made the X-side table and that piece was very sturdy so I am hoping this turns out the same.

Thanks for any tips!

michele098

Sun, 09/21/2014 - 15:53

Anyone know where the side black iron brackets are from? I just love the look and want to re-create!

 

Thanks!!

 

Stephen Peters

Sun, 09/21/2014 - 21:14

They are a regular hardware store item called "angle iron". Just about any hardware store will have them. You will need to paint them black ... dark bronze....dark gray...to get the look you want. I'm just full of ideas....just paint them black. :)  You know what.....they are refered to as "L-brackets" also. Have fun with your project.

Angie Overton

Sun, 10/26/2014 - 15:28

I love this table. I don't have the space for one this large so I plan on cutting down the dimensions and making a smaller one. Thanks for the design and the easy directions. Cant wait to make this!

BuckysMom

Thu, 11/06/2014 - 17:02

Okay, I'm a new builder and I need your help!! I need this to be 6 feet instead of 8. Can someone help me change the cut list so adjust for 6 foot vs 8 foot difference? Pretty please? 

adeath

Mon, 01/26/2015 - 10:38

I used bolts and corner pieces from home depot. I used flat black spray paint from there as well. The corner hardware can be found near where they keep the latches for gates. I screwed the screws for those as well as the boost into a flattened cardboard box to hold them while I applied the paint. You can spray a little bit of the can into a film canister or medicine bottle if you need to do touch-ups once you apply it to the furniture.

davis150

Mon, 12/08/2014 - 08:44

I know with larger tables, like the farm table, there is a concern for warping once the wood dries and acclimates to the environment it is being used in. Is there a concern with this table since it is much smaller? Has anyone here had this table longer than 1 year that knows if it will hold up?

Rolexosborne

Tue, 11/24/2015 - 11:44

Not sure if you ever got an answer on this. . I've asked similar questions but most diy-ers don't want to or know to account for wood movement they just use pocket screws and be done with it not knowing the potential problems down the road. . For the top of the table I'd recommend using "table fasteners" that would fit into a Kerf size groove on the "aprons" of this table. The bottom and middle shelves though small may still warp more than you think because they are one 12 inch wide piece.  Since the piece is framed all around you could use plywood instead

davis150

Mon, 12/08/2014 - 08:55

Also, do I glue the 3 2x6's for the top together or just pocket holes?

czieler

Tue, 12/09/2014 - 10:16

On step 1 when attaching the 2x2s to the 2x4 ... which piece does the screw go into and which piece receives it? Do you go from the 2x4 to the 2x2 ... or from the 2x2 to the 2.4?

adeath

Mon, 01/26/2015 - 10:34

I have made two of the end table version and one of the console tables. I found that the angle might vary ever so slightly so I scribed my angles by hand. Once you have the base assembled but before you put the top on clamp, or get and extra set of hands, the 2x2 board over the opening at the end of the table. Scribe the angles in from the inside edge of the table. Use whatever kind of saw you have and cut the angle accordingly. Test fit as necessary. For the two smaller intersecting pieces, I put the first piece in place up against the outside edge of the opening and lay the other piece over the opening as before and scribe the 4 angles you need. Take extra care to make sure that the wood is right against the edges in the upper corners. Is you use this method you are almost guaranteed to get the inner angles to line up and give you a perfect X. You can see pictures of my console table here. http://ana-white.com/node/13823

Jared0611

Thu, 04/09/2015 - 07:36

What type of wood have y'all used for this? I assume pine, but has anybody tried others kinds?

AmyJ

Tue, 05/05/2015 - 14:08

I'm a newbie to DIY-ing, so I've enlisted my DIY-talented uncle to make sure I do things right. I thought I was following the plans by purchasing the boards listed for another project. However, he informed me that the 1x3, 2x4, etc are actually smaller than the actual dimensions listed. Are your projects based on wood cut down to the actual 1x3 (or other size) or am I safe in purchasing what the lumber yard lists at 1x3, 2x4, etc...? I hope I was able to explain well enough! Thanks in advance!!

stealth517

Tue, 05/05/2015 - 20:11

Normally, when you see a project, you will get a "cut sheet" that tells you how much and what size lumber to buy. A 2X4 that you buy at say, Lowes, is actually 1-1/2" X 3-1/2" because they plane the wood into these standardized dimensions. The plans, however, are using actual dimensions as specified.

Sunny

Mon, 05/11/2015 - 16:43

Hi I am having a trouble of downloading this plan. It is too big. Is there a way I can get a straight plan and a little smaller pictures?

Thank you

taralynn

Fri, 06/12/2015 - 14:34

I am trying to use this behind our sofa, but I need the table to stand taller (at least 33 inches) and not quite so deep (12-14 inches). Can anyone help me with the cut list?

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!