How to build a DIY square coffee table

In this post you will learn how to make your own DIY outdoor wood coffee table.

This table has slats in the tabletop to allow for water to drain.

Total cost for the table is only about $45.

This table fits beautifully with the sectional sofa in the pictures. For plans and details click the link.

Time to build

2 hours

Total cost of build

$45

Skill level required

Beginner

Download the PDF plans

Plans for how to build the square outdoor wood coffee table

What is included in the PDF download?

1. Easy to read step by step instructions
2. Material list
3. Cut list
4. Tools needed
5. 3D illustrations
6. Helpful links to tools and materials needed for the project

Recommend tools for this project

Saw (miter saw recommended for precision cuts)
Drill
Ratchet Strap
Impact driver with bit for screws
GRIP Clamps
Sander
wood countersink drill bit

Discloser: Some links are affiliate links

Cut list and material list

Available with purchase of PDF plans.

Step 1

Precut all your wood pieces into the following dimensions:

(11) 2in x 4in x 20.5in
(2) 2in x 4in x 17.5in
(4) 4in x 4in x 13.5in
(4) 2in x 4in x 27.5in (long side). (cut at a 45 degree angle. See image below for reference)

Step 2

Start by arranging two of the 17.5-in cuts and two of the 20.5-in cuts as shown in the diagram.

Predrill the holes so that the wood doesn’t split using a countersink bit for the cleanest look.

Step 3

Next add glue to all the areas where the joints will be. Make sure to apply enough glue to make sure the joint is strong but not so much that the glue drips.

Once glue dries it is very difficult to sand out. Its good practice to have something on hand to wipe off the extra glue.

Step 4

In this step, add the 20.5-in pieces that will be attached to the frame.

Predrill and add glue. Add screws and secure the pieces to the frame.

Step 5

Next take 4 of the 13.5-in pieces. These will be attached to the frame with glue and screws.

Make sure the surface you are working on is leveled. This will ensure that the tabletop is even.

Step 6

Next add glue and bring all the leg pieces together.

Put a ratchet strap around the outside perimeter and begin to bring all the pieces together.

Make sure the strap is very tight and has a fair amount of tension. This will ensure that when adding screws, nothing will move.

You can lift the table and make sure that all the surfaces are flush and even. If they are uneven then the tabletop will also be uneven.

Step 7

In this step add three screws. You can predrill here as well but make sure you don’t hit any of the screws that are already in the wood.

I usually use an old drill bit here in case it does hit a screw.

Step 8

Next add 9 more screws in the same manner as before.

Step 9

Next, flip the table. Do not release the straps. Predrill holes again in the same way as on the bottom and add the 12 screws.

Once you add all the screws, remove the straps.

Step 10

Next, take the 27.5-in pieces and add them to the top of the table. If the top of the table is rough and uneven then sand it down and make it even before adding the 27.5-in pieces to the top.

Step 11

Next, add glue to all the areas where the 27.5-in pieces will be making contacts, including at the 45-degree corners.

Predrill holes and attach to the table frame with screws.

Step 12