How to Build Shaker-Style Wet Bars

Purchase a countertop or tabletop made out of oak, hickory, walnut or cedar. These are the woods traditionally used in building Shaker furniture.

Measure the length and the width of the countertop. Label the length as "L" and the width as "W." Subtract 1 foot from L and cut two two-by-fours equal to that length. Subtract 1 foot 4 inches from W and cut two pieces equal to that length. Make sure that the two-by-fours are made out of the same hardwood as the countertop.

Screw the four pieces you have cut together into a rectangle, using 3-inch screws. Place the shorter pieces in between the longer ones. Use two screws for each attachment.

Cut six 36-inch two-by-fours to serve as the bar's legs. Set one leg at each corner, on the inside. Screw them in place using two screws for each joint. Screw the other two legs into the middles of the long sides.

Cut six pieces of 1/2-by-6-inch plank, each equal to L minus 1 foot in length. Screw them between the legs so that they completely cover the long sides, using 1-inch screws. These planks serve both as the rear wall of the bar and as braces for the legs.

Cut 12 pieces of 1/2-by-6-inch plank, each equal to W minus 1 foot 4 inches. Screw them to the two short sides.

Measure the internal distance of the long sides of the top frame. Cut four two-by-fours of this length. Screw two of these to the legs on the long sides, inside the bar. Place them halfway up the legs. Screw the other two onto the legs of the long sides near the bottom. These pieces form the braces for the bar's shelves. Use 3-inch screws for these braces.

Cut several pieces of 1/2-by-6-inch plank equal in length to W minus 1 foot 4 inches. Screw them into place between the braces to form shelves for the bar. Use the 1-inch screws.

Stain and varnish the bar, following the manufacturer's instructions. Choose a stain and varnish that match the look of your entertainment room.