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!
Comments
Amanda H. (not verified)
Wed, 06/22/2011 - 13:30
Is that a chorus of Hallelujha in the background?
I've been staring at side, coffee, and console table plans for MONTHS trying to decide which one I could attempt to modify to build that would be perfect. (I'm still pretty much a novice and terrible at math, haha!) In fact I was perusing plans today because I CAN NOT make it any longer with my makeshift one. I'm so happy right now. These plans are perfect. Oh happy day! Thanks Ana!
Lynn P (not verified)
Thu, 06/23/2011 - 03:10
I love these side tables! I
I love these side tables! I am going to be moving soon and looking for a place to build a new home. You have inspired me to want to do the furniture myself! Thank you for all you do!
hook Fam
Thu, 06/23/2011 - 10:12
Hide the remote!!
I love this! Thank you! My youngest son loves to play with the remotes and they very often get stashed in the couch cushions, a high shelf, anywhere that he won't find them. This is a great solution. It's on my To-Do List!
HollyHomemaker (not verified)
Thu, 07/07/2011 - 07:21
It's *perfect*
Thank you for sharing this! My hubby and I have a very small bedroom and have struggled finding bedside tables that are narrow enough that we are able to have one on each side.
I struggled with paying $50 or more for a cheap pre-made hunk of junk that would need altering and strengthening anyway...this is the perfect solution!
I really wish I had found this site MONTHS ago!
Florence Carole (not verified)
Thu, 09/01/2011 - 03:02
My husband will definitely
My husband will definitely love this end table plan. Have been bugging him for weeks to make use of our headboard, and this end table will be perfect in our living room. Thank you so much.
http://www.danielshomecenter.com/living-rooms.html
Jessica Elder (not verified)
Mon, 12/12/2011 - 21:32
Inspired Novice!
I have been looking all over for end tables small enough to fit in the tight spaces of my living room and found that the really inexpensive ones look extremely cheap and would be goners in no time and the really nice ones start at around $150.00! I got the notion to see if this is something I could do on my own and thanks to this project I think it is possible! I've been researching a lot about required tools and things like how a piece of lumber isn't actually the size it's classified as and am just dumbfounded I didn't know this. hahaha. Now that I've got the gist of it and understand the things that made me hesitate I'm going for it. I really hope it turns out as adorable as the picture! Thanks for your details and great design!
bigtimer24
Mon, 04/23/2012 - 18:38
First Time Project
My wife wanted a side table for her books and a place to sit her tea or coffee while reading. I looked around and couldn't find one that was nice and affordable. I saw this plan and shared it with my wife as I said to her that "I will build this for you." Several days later she was stunned as I showed off my completed project. Thanks for the plan!!! I'll post a picture shortly. Cost me around $30.00 bucks as I opted for a 7 dollar decorative drawer pull.
(: Tennessee Teen :) (not verified)
Sun, 08/12/2012 - 13:52
I love this! I'm re-doing my
I love this! I'm re-doing my room and I'm going to make this with my dad for a nightstand and painting it pink!
paulaandmatt2010
Sat, 11/02/2013 - 01:35
Should have checked first...
I just purchased 2 tables from a higher end department store that looked EXACTLY like this (minus color) and paid way more than what I would have if built. Well, now I know...check here first! :)
lionsbluewhite
Sat, 12/26/2020 - 06:12
Narrow cottage end table drawer face
Can somebody please tell me what method or how to attach the drawer face to the drawer? I’m just getting started in woodworking. I love this site!