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How to make a D.I.Y. side table

By Bunnings magazine /

Image of the side bench in living room

Steps

1Cutting list

A. 475mm x 250mm

B. 450mm x 250mm

C. 350mm x 250mm

D. 250mm x 250mm

E. 225mm x 225mm

F. 250mm x 200mm

G. 250mm x 200mm

Diagram showing the plywood pieces labelled A to G from the cutting list for the table

2Measure and cut panels

Use a circular saw to cut a 12mm plywood sheet in half lengthways. Apply adhesive over the face, join the pieces with edges flush and clamp to dry. Use a combination square to mark lengthways 250mm from the edge, then cut. Follow the cutting list to cut panels from A to G, marking and cutting one at a time. Sand the cut edges using 180-grit abrasive paper. Tip: Position the blade on the offcut side of each mark to allow for the kerf (thickness of the blade).

A piece of plywood is being cut with a circular saw

3Join panels D and F

Position panel D facedown to mark a centreline along the woodgrain. On the top and base edges of F, mark 30mm in from both ends to drill holes with an 8mm bit. Insert dowel centre points in the top holes and position on D, edges flush. Tap with a mallet, remove F and dowel centre points and drill into the indents. Apply adhesive in the holes and along the joins. Insert dowels, reposition the panels and clamp to dry. Tip: Make all the holes 16mm deep.
A dowel centre inserted in the edge of a plywood panel

4Join panels E and D

On the top edge of panel E, mark 30mm in from both ends to drill holes. Insert dowel centres, then position this panel along the D centreline, edges flush. Tap with a mallet, then remove to drill holes into the indents. Apply adhesive into the holes and along the joins. Insert dowels, reposition the panels and clamp to dry.
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Use a damp cloth to wipe away excess adhesive that squeezes out with clamping.
A panel with dowel centres is positioned over the centreline of another panel

5Join the rest and varnish

Repeat to join panels C, B and A, with C overhanging A. Position G right side up, insert dowel centres into the bases of B and F, then position them on G, edges flush. Tap, then remove to drill the holes. Apply adhesive, insert dowels, reposition the panels and clamp to dry. Sand all over with 240-grit abrasive paper and wipe off dust with a damp cloth. Apply three coats of varnish with a brush, leaving to dry and sanding lightly after the first two coats.

Keep in mind…

  • Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.
  • When using a drill and circular saw to cut timber, always wear a mask, and ear and eye protection and work in a well-ventilated area.
  • Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
    • Varnish is applied to the finished table using a paintbrush

    6Line up your next D.I.Y. project

    Check out these new and trending projects for an easy home upgrade.
    Health & Safety

    Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

    When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.