Farmhouse Coffee Table [Beginner/Under $40]

Attach legs to two of the 2x6 @ 18" with two screws per joint.

Use glue at all joints.

Build two.

Set the two leg sets on a level surface.

Attach two leg sets together with 2x2s, two screws per joint and ample wood glue.

If your 2x2 is splitting, predrill holes first, then attach with screws.

TIP: Screws attached at a slight angle will help strengthen this joint.

Place first long X piece in the coffee table end and attach with glue and screw from top and bottom.

Set second X piece along side first, and mark where the two pieces cross.

Cut the second piece along the marked lines.

Place two cut pieces inside the coffee table and attach from top and bottom and middle.

The second piece should be attached as shown from top.

This is all shown in the video tutorial.

Attach one of the 2x6 @ 18" in about the center of the coffee table with two screws per joint and glue.

Lay out the 2x6 tabletop boards on a flat, level surface, with best side of tabletop boards face down.

Apply glue to top edges of coffee table frame, and place coffee table frame upside down on the tabletop boards.

Screw the base to the underside of the tabletop boards.  Use ample screws but reserve enough to complete the next step.

Position the middle shelf slat centered on the coffee table bottom shelf. 

Attach with 2 screws per joint.

Place remaining slats inside the frame and attach with 2 screws per joint.  The gap is about 1" in between (slightly less).

TIP: If heavy loads are expected on the bottom shelf of the coffee table, place a 1x2 scrap about 20" long, underneath the shelf, centered and running lengthwise to the coffee table.  This will act as a center "leg" for the shelf and considerably increase the strength of the bottom shelf.