How to Build a Coffee Table With Stools

Constructing a coffee table is a way to save money and can be as simple as repurposing a few old stools and selecting an attractive table top. Shopping for a new coffee table can be an exhausting process -- one you need not suffer through any longer. If you find yourself frustrated with overpriced furniture from custom and retail suppliers, consider building your own coffee table rather than buying one. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Gather two or more wooden stools to use as the base for your coffee table. The stools should be identical in height and, ideally, no more than 16 inches tall.

2

Position the stools next to each other so the edges are flush and aligned. If you are using round stools you will simply need to line up the stools as straight as you can. To make a wide or square coffee table, arrange four stools in two rows of two to form a square shape.

3

Check the straightness of the stools by laying a yard stick or piece of scrap wood against the side of the stools and make any necessary adjustments until the edges of all of the stools touch the yard stick in the same place.

4

Measure the combined length and width of the stools and cut two pieces of 1-by-2-inch lumber to size for the length and two pieces of the same measurements for the width. You will use these pieces to construct a frame that will connect the stools to the table top.

5

Lay the two longer pieces of 1-by-2-inch lumber flat against the outside edges of the stools on opposite sides. The top of the lumber should be aligned with the top of the stools. Insert 3-inch wood screws through the 1-by-2-inch lumber into the side of each stool. Place at least one screw through each stool and, if you can, insert a screw every 4 inches or so along the total length of the stools.

6

Lay the shorter 1-by-2-inch pieces of lumber perpendicular to the longer pieces so they are flush with the edges of the end stools and the top is aligned with the surface of the stools. The ends of the shorter 1-by-2-inch pieces should align with the edges of the longer pieces to form a square or rectangle. Secure the lumber in place with 3-inch wood screws following the same procedure as before.

7

Select a table top for your coffee table. Go the traditional route of using a piece of plywood or hardwood or get a little more creative and use an old door or window frame. If necessary, trim the table top to size using a table saw.

8

Lay the table top flat on the ground, upside down, and position the stool frame upside down on top of it. Center the stool frame on the table top and measure the overhang on all four sides to be sure it is centered.

9

Drive 3-inch wood screws through the 1-by-2-inch frame into the underside of the table top to secure it in place. Place two screws at each corner and space additional screws about 6 inches apart along the length and width of the frame.

10

Paint or stain your table top as you desire to complete the look. If you are painting it, apply a coat of interior grade latex primer before applying any paint. If staining the table top, apply thin coats of stain using a soft brush and wipe away the excess with a clean cloth.