So, I’d been thinking for a while about needing a little spot, you know, just somewhere to put down a drink or two, especially when people pop round. My living room isn’t huge, and balancing cups on the armrest is just asking for trouble.
I had this awkward little corner next to the sofa that was just gathering dust. Seemed like the perfect place. I didn’t want anything massive, just a simple, small table. Looked around online a bit, but nothing really grabbed me, or it was weirdly expensive for what it was. Then I remembered I had some leftover wood from another project stacked in the garage.
Getting Started
Pulled out the wood planks. Had a couple of decent square-ish pieces and some longer bits that could work for legs. Wasn’t aiming for perfection, just something functional. Found my old toolbox, grabbed a saw, measuring tape, screws, and the drill.
Measured things out first. Wanted it just high enough to reach easily from the sofa, maybe about knee-height. Cut one square piece for the top. Then measured and cut four lengths for the legs. Simple stuff.
Putting it Together
Okay, actually attaching the legs straight took a bit of fiddling. My cuts weren’t perfectly square, haha. But I managed it. Drilled some pilot holes first so the wood wouldn’t split, then screwed the legs onto the underside of the tabletop piece. Gave it a wobble test – seemed sturdy enough!
- Measured the wood
- Cut the pieces (top and four legs)
- Drilled pilot holes
- Screwed the legs to the top
Finishing Touches
The edges were a bit rough from the saw, so I got some sandpaper and smoothed everything down. Took maybe 15-20 minutes, just making sure there were no splinters. I thought about painting it, but honestly, I kind of liked the raw wood look. Plus, less hassle. I just wiped it down really well to get rid of the sawdust.
Quick tip: Sanding makes a bigger difference than you’d think. Don’t skip it!
The Result
Carried it inside and put it in that empty corner. Fit perfectly! It’s nothing fancy, just a basic little wooden table. But I made it, you know? Put a couple of coasters on top and my favorite mug. It immediately made the corner feel more used, more cozy.
Tried it out that evening with a cup of tea while watching TV. Super handy. No more awkward reaching or balancing acts. Really pleased with how this little weekend task turned out. It just works.
