Make a modular coffee table

Shop around for a modular coffee table like this one in a furniture store and you could easily end up paying over R1000 each. Make it yourself and you'll spend around R600... for the set!

 

All the parts are cut from one sheet of 19mm-thick SupaWood. You can have everything cut to size at your local Builders Warehouse.

1. Use the diagram above to have all your SupaWood cut to size. It's important to use PG Bison SupaWood for this project, as the smoothness and quality of this product is far superior to cheaper imports - and costs the same.

2. Use a 100mm x 300mm offcut to join the mitred tabletop, securing with wood glue and 30mm wood screws. Apply wood glue around the side frames; then, position the tabletops, securing with 30mm wood screws 200mm apart.

3. Apply wood glue to one end and two sides of the blocks; then, position them in the corners, clamping to the sides until dry.

4. Position the legs on the corner blocks so the base plate is flush with the sides (attaching the legs to the blocks and the sides stabilizes the tables); then drill 2mm pilot holes through the fixing holes, securing with the supplied screws. You will find a selection of legs and feet at your local Builders Warehouse, or at Wholesale Cabinet Fittings or Gelmar.

5. Use wood filler to patch the joints and leave to dry. Sand all the surfaces and edges lightly with 240-grit sandpaper; then, apply primer or undercoat and two coats of acrylic paint using a sponge roller.