Ultimate Coffee Table Plans

One of the most overlooked and abused pieces of furniture in the home is often the coffee table. This is where many families drop magazines, cups, and even their legs after a long day. When it’s time for a new table, you can build one yourself with quality coffee table plans.

With so many different options of design, size, color, and style to choose from, there are bound to be coffee table plans that will be precisely what you’re looking for.

Different types of construction

Of course, coffee table designs can offer an array of challenges as well as opportunities to choose from. You can have a glass-top coffee table, a functional coffee table with drawers for storage, and even tapered legs or an elegant design. The choices of coffee table plans are almost limitless.

What are the advantages of the different types of coffee tables? It comes down to functionality. If your coffee table will be used for everyday living, and you have children in the house, then you will probably want to stick with plans that are simple and basic. A glass-top coffee table could be a recipe for disaster with kids running around, throwing things, and just being kids.

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On the other hand, if you plan on using your coffee table in an elegant living room where only adults will congregate, then a glass-top may be ideal.

Woods to use

The type of wood that you use will also depend on the coffee table plans you have as well as your needs. Oak, maple, ash, and mahogany are all wonderful choices for coffee tables. Oak will certainly be heavier and more durable over time but will cost more than ash, for example.

The finish that you choose can also ultimately affect the final result of your coffee table. Using dark finishes are ideal because they will be more impervious to scratches or minor stains that can come from regular use. A light finish would be ideal for a room with light carpeting or an abundance of sunlight, however.

Contrasting woods can be a potential design element. Using a light ash for the sides and a slightly darker maple for the top can add texture to the coffee table. You are not limited to using only one type of wood, as can often be the case with other woodworking projects.

Design and function

Far too often, coffee tables are not considered for their functionality. They are chosen for their color or appearance and often to match a room and other furniture already there. However, when you are planning on building your own coffee table, you can factor in a number of conditions when looking for coffee table plans.

If you tend to prefer the television or stereo remotes to be stored out of view, or magazines and other items that can often clutter the room, then adding drawers to the coffee table can be one solution. You could also create a shelf under the top for magazines, TV guides, or other small items. The key is to know your personal needs and making the coffee table fit them best.

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