Before one starts making a DIY table, he must first determine the type and size of the table needed. He should also measure the area where the table will go, as well as any doorways that it must pass through. A table can either be made from scratch or from a kit, depending on a person's skill level. Once the pieces of the table have been cut and assembled, a person can finish the table any way he wishes.
There are several types of DIY tables that a person can make. A large dining room table can be constructed for a dining room, for instance. For smaller homes or families, however, a small kitchen nook table will usually suffice. Other tables, like coffee tables or end tables can be made for a living room or family room.
The size of a DIY table will usually depend on a number of things, including the type of table and a person's needs. A typical dining room table will usually be around 29 inches (73.6 centimeters) high, but it can be as long or wide as it needs to be to accommodate a family. Coffee tables are usually around the same height as the seat of a couch. End tables should be built at a height that is comfortable for a person to reach while sitting on a couch.
A person should also measure the space where the DIY table will go after it is finished. Tables that are too large will overwhelm a room. A table that is too small for a room, however, could make the room seem too large and empty. All doorways that the table will pass through should also be measured to ensure that the table can easily be transported in and out.
Table kits are typically the easiest ways to build DIY tables. These usually come with pre-cut pieces of wood, along with any hardware and instructions needed to assemble the table. Some of these kits may even come with a couple of small tools needed for assembly.
Some people choose to build a table from scratch. This is a bit more difficult, since a person has to cut all of the table pieces himself before assembling them. Table plans are usually needed when constructing a DIY table from scratch. These types of woodworking plans can often be found in books, magazines, and online.
Pine, oak, mahogany, maple, and beech are popular types of wood used to construct DIY tables from scratch. Most types of wood should also be allowed to air dry before constructing anything with it. This will help prevent shrinking, warping, and cracking of the finished products.
The old adage “measure twice, cut once” is one of the best pieces of advice for cutting pieces to build furniture. Each piece of wood, from the table top to the supports, should be measured and marked very carefully before it's cut. This can help prevent any problems with ill-fitting pieces during assembly.
After a DIY table is constructed, it can be finished any way that a person wishes. Those who prefer the natural look of wood can either stain it or add a few coats of varnish or polyurethane. Wood tables can also be painted to match the decor in any room.
