Build your own DIY console table—like mine—in just an hour or two. It’s simple and affordable.
DIY console table tutorial. I built this console table for our bedroom for under $30 because I couldn’t find one in the right size. Making my own turned out to be the best choice.
The project was quick—about an hour from start to finish—and the material cost was far less than comparable tables online.
I actually built this table several months before publishing this post so I could test how well it held up. Good news: it’s still solid. Below is an easy-to-follow guide so you can build one in any size you need.
The design is intentionally simple and highly customizable. You can add a shelf, change the height, or alter the depth. It’s also a great beginner woodworking project.
If you want a custom console table that costs under $30 to build, takes about an hour, and can be sized to fit your space, this is the tutorial for you.
What are console tables used for?
Console tables are typically long and shallow pieces of furniture placed against a wall, in a hallway, or behind a sofa. They work well in entryways, living rooms, bedrooms, or any narrow space that needs a surface for decor or daily essentials.
Most console tables measure roughly 28–32 inches in height and 30–60 inches in width, with a relatively shallow depth—usually 12–18 inches—so they don’t jut into walkways.
How to Make a DIY Console Table
Materials
- Wood (choose the species and board size you prefer)
- 4 wood screws
- Wood glue
- Cordless drill (or screwdriver)
*Specific wood dimensions used in this tutorial are listed in step 1.
Instructions
1. Measure and cut the wood.
Decide the final dimensions for your table and cut the boards accordingly. Many home improvement stores will cut lumber for you if you bring the measurements; otherwise you can cut the pieces with a hand saw, circular saw, or table saw at home.
For a very simple console like the one shown, you need only three pieces of wood: two legs and one tabletop. As a starting point, I cut my boards to these sizes:
- Tabletop: 42 inches long
- Legs: 33 inches tall (each)
I chose a board 11 1/4 inches wide so I could get all three pieces from a single length of lumber. Depending on your chosen width and height, and the lumber you find, you may need more than one board to cut all pieces.
2. Sand the wood.
After cutting, sand all edges and surfaces to remove splinters and smooth the finish. Use a sanding sponge or an electric sander if you have one, working with progressively finer grit for a clean result.
3. Drill pilot holes.
Mark and drill pilot holes where screws will go to prevent splitting and to guide the screws. Drill two holes near each end of the tabletop (on the underside) and two holes on the top of each leg where they will attach to the tabletop.
I positioned each screw about one inch from the outer edge and used two screws per side; you can add a third screw per side if you prefer extra security.
4. Attach with screws and glue.
Spread a thin bead of wood glue where the leg meets the tabletop, align the pieces, and drive the screws through the pilot holes to fasten them. Wipe away any excess glue. Square the assembly as you tighten the screws to ensure the table sits level.
That’s all—simple, sturdy, and fast.
Take it further: more console table ideas
If you make a larger or wider console table, add cross-supports or a mid-level shelf to keep the table rigid. A shelf placed 4–8 inches below the top that spans from one leg to the other provides excellent reinforcement and additional storage or display space.
More DIY wood projects to try
If you have leftover lumber, consider other small woodworking projects that are beginner-friendly and useful around the house. Ideas include a minimal modern desk, a bathroom organizer with shelf and mirror, a peg rail for coats and accessories, a desktop organizer, or a decorative half-circle wall shelf for plants and small items.
Build a DIY Console Table
Brittni
Ingredients
- Wood *See step 1 for recommended dimensions.
- 4 wood screws
- Wood glue
- Cordless drill
Instructions
Measure and cut wood.
- Measure and cut three boards to size: two for the legs and one for the tabletop. Home improvement stores often cut boards for you if you provide measurements.
- Suggested dimensions: 42″ long tabletop and two 33″ tall legs. Choose a width that works for your space; I used an 11 1/4″ board and cut all pieces from one length of lumber.
Sand wood.
- Sand all cut edges and surfaces smooth using a sanding sponge or electric sander.
Drill pilot holes.
- Mark and drill pilot holes in the tabletop and the tops of the legs where screws will join the pieces. I placed screws about 1″ from the edges and used two per side.
Add screws.
- Apply wood glue to contact surfaces, align the legs with the tabletop, and drive screws through the pilot holes to secure the assembly. Remove any glue squeeze-out and confirm the table is square and level.
Notes
More console table ideas: If your table is large, add a shelf 4–8 inches below the top that spans between the legs to add support and storage. This simple reinforcement helps keep wider tabletops from sagging.
Share your build on Instagram and tag the creator if you like.