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How to build a coffee table

Finished size: 1.1 m × 550 mm × 450 mm high.

DifficultyIntermediate
Time5–6 hrs
Cost£60–£120
Size1.1 m × 550 mm × 450 mm high

Steps

  1. Glue up the top from four boards; clamp overnight.
  2. Cut four 405 mm legs and aprons.
  3. Join aprons to legs with pocket screws or dowels.
  4. Fix the top with slotted brackets so it can move with humidity; sand and oil.
Tip: Never glue or screw a solid-wood top rigidly to its base: it moves across the grain and will crack.

Materials

  • 3 × 145×45 mm planed timber, 2.4 m (top)
  • 2 × 70×70 mm planed timber, 1.8 m (legs)
  • Wood glue, dowels or pocket screws
  • Hardwax oil

Tools

  • Mitre saw
  • Pocket-hole jig or dowel jig
  • Clamps
  • Random orbital sander

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