Day 7 - Build a Chunky Console Table

Are you having fun yet? You can see links to the complete series here, and get details about my Lowe's gift card giveaway here. In this series, we're seeing what we can make out of 2x4s. I want to keep it cheap, keep it easy, and keep it totally doable for anyone. Today's project is easy and super versatile. We're going to build a Chunky Console with 2x4s!

This console has so many possibilities - it's great in the entry way or tucked behind a couch. Slide up a chair and it can double as a desk. Tuck some big baskets underneath to hold blankets and toys, or use the space to stash your shoes by the door. Have you thought of the perfect place for it in your home? Let's get started!

 Shopping List:

5  -  2x4s @ 10' long 

1  -  2x4  @ 8' long

Tools:

Saw

Drill

2 1/2” screws (or Kreg Jig & 2 1/2" self tapping screws)

4" screws (or Kreg Jig & 2 1/2" self tapping screws)

Wood glue

Wood filler

2x4 Cut List:

(A) - 4  @  28 1/2" (legs)

(B) - 6  @  6"  (side boards)

(C) - 4  @  56"  (back/front boards)

(D) - 2  @  10"  (top supports)

(E) - 4  @  60"  (table top)

 

Dimensions: 60" wide x 30" tall x 14" deep

 

Please read all the directions before beginning, and cut your pieces as you go, measuring before each cut. Use 2 1/2” screws or pocket holes with 2 1/2" screws unless otherwise indicated. Always use glue. Pre-drill and countersink your screws. I have not built from these exact plans, so measure lots to make sure things work out!

Step 1: Build the Sides
Use 3 side pieces (B) to connect two of the legs (A). Attach the first side board flush against the top edge of the legs, and the second right below it, like in the picture below. Attach the third side board 4" up from the bottom of the legs (there should be 14" between this side and the ones above). You can attach this by drilling through the legs and into the sides with 4" screws and glue, or you can use a Kreg Jig and pocket hole screws.

Step 2: Connect the Sides
Use the front/back pieces (C) to connect the two sides you just built. In the back, start by attaching one of the boards flush with the top and back edges of the back legs. Attach a second one right below. Repeat for the front side of the table.

 

Step 3: Supports
Now you can add your support boards (D). Attach one 17" in from the each end of the table, flush with the top edge of the front/back boards.

 

Step 4: Table Top
If you have a Kreg Jig, you can start by attaching all the top boards (E) together side-by-side. You can even use the Kreg Jig to attach the top to the supports from below so you won't have any holes to fill on top. If not, just attach the boards one at a time by drilling down through the top boards into the supports and sides of the table with 2 1/2" screws and glue. The top should be centered on the table with a 1/2" overhang on all sides.

 

Step 5: Finishing
All that's left is finishing your console. Start by filling any holes and giving the whole table a good sanding. Then you can finish it off with whatever paint/stain/polyurethane you like!

Thanks to Dave for sending in our first finished photos of the chunky console! It turned out great!

Project 2x4 Cost:

$16.00  -  5   2x4s @ 10' long ($3.20 each)

$2.50  -  1   2x4 @ 8' long ($2.50 each)

$18.50 Total

See giveaway winners here.

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