Can’t find the perfect coffee table? Why not make one? Get some inspiration with these 20+ DIY coffee tables you can build yourself.
Welcome to the world of DIY coffee tables, where the quest for the perfect living room centerpiece becomes a thrilling adventure in creativity and craftsmanship!
Coffee tables can make or break a space. Too large, and your guests are left navigating an obstacle course just to take a seat. Too small, and it becomes a game of balancing drinks and snacks like a circus act.
And then there’s the style – too bold, and it’s a living room tyrant; too timid, and it fades into obscurity.
But let’s not forget, a coffee table is so much more than just a place to rest your mug. It’s the unsung hero of the living room, a versatile multitasker.
It’s where art books and magazines come to live, a secret storage spot for those cozy blankets and scattered toys, a footrest for weary legs, and let’s not forget, the unofficial judge of coaster usage.
In households with kids, it doubles as a coloring station or a mini-play area, often bearing the battle scars of crayons and toy trucks.
Given their pivotal role, finding one that ticks all your boxes can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why crafting your own coffee table is such an exciting journey.
It’s not just about building a piece of furniture; it’s about creating a hub for your home, tailored to your needs, your style, and your space.
Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or a DIY newbie, the joy of making a coffee table from scratch (or even transforming an existing one) is unbeatable.
I’ve put together a collection of over 20 DIY coffee table ideas, ranging from simple yet chic designs to more elaborate creations. Each project comes with its own set of coffee table plans or a tutorial ensuring you can craft a piece that perfectly fits your space and lifestyle.
And for those who might not be ready to build from the ground up, check out our clever IKEA coffee table hacks that will get your creative juices flowing.
So, grab your measuring tape, jot down your living room’s dimensions, and think about what you really want from your coffee table. Do you need storage? A statement piece? Or perhaps a child-friendly design?
Whatever your needs, there’s a project here for you. Scroll down, and let’s dive into the world of coffee table do it yourself projects. Your living room is about to get a whole lot more exciting!
1
West Elm Inspired
This DIY coffee table was inspired by a West Elm find for $999 – except we made our version for less than $50 using pallet wood. It’s easy to do!
This faux concrete square top table with angled legs was inspired by a $1300 coffee table from Serena & Lily. This version? Only $120! This budget-friendly DIY uses a trick to mimic the concrete top, as well.
With lumber costs rising, repurposing things such as a wooden cable spool is a great option! Sara and her husband made this coffee table with found items and some purchased bolts. I love the look of this.
The chunky balustrade legs on this coffee table give it an architectural look. It really is a statement piece in any room! It also goes with a variety of decor.
Sara gathered three tree stumps together and uses them as a coffee table. She has some great tips on choosing the stumps and how to prepare them for use.
This is an easy build project. Delia bought a 3' pine wood round and hairpin legs and created this trendy coffee table! It's got modern industrial feel that I love.
I love the shape of this modern coffee table and how it provides storage – yet you can still see through! It's perfect and neutral enough to go with a variety of styles.
Fariha saw a $2700 table that she fell in love with . . . but the price point was way too high. So she decided to DIY her own! The secret to the fluting is round dowels.
This coffee table is built around using four crates instead of drawers. This allows you to take them out and use them around the room as needed. Amy also made some matching crate stools for her kids!
If you have a big ottoman you use as part of your couch, it's nice to be able to set things on it. Make this coffee table that goes right over the top!
I had no idea that drawers make a perfect display table! If you have a fun collection you'd like to share, this DIY coffee table idea is perfect for you.
The top of this coffee table is a chevron pattern using wood from a pallet. The table also features a shelf to store magazines, remotes or whatever you want to hide.
For only $15 of lumber, Anika made this outdoor coffee table to match her curbside rescued patio set. Get her coffee table plans to add to your patio this summer!
Learn how to create an 80’s-inspired, column coffee table using oversized PVC pipe and a wood top. Erin built this for her family room at 1/4 the cost of a similar Anthropologie table.
Hillary wanted an antique look on a budget for her do it yourself coffee table. She was able to use pine board and get the desired effect with some heavy elbow grease.
At first glance, this coffee table looks like it doesn't have any storage. However, the top is on hinges! When lifted, there is a lot of room to hide your random items when guests come over.
Ashley made this two-toned industrial-look coffee table for only $75! I love that the legs/base are a darker stain. It almost looks like distressed metal.
Vineta was inspired by a West Elm outdoor coffee table. She adjusted it to fit her needs and ended up liking the finished table more than the inspiration!
Kasia cut a pallet in half and stacked it to create this rustic look coffee table. Didn't it turn out great? It would work with farmhouse style decor really well.
