How to Build a Concrete Coffee Table Top

Determine the length and width you want your coffee table top to have. Cut a piece of 3/4-inch Melamine board to that dimension with a circular saw. Cut pieces for the sides from the Melamine board. Each side piece needs to be at least 2 3/4-inches wide.

Assemble the concrete form from the Melamine pieces with the smooth side of the Melamine on the inside of the form. Staple or nail the form together.

Seal the inside seams with silicone caulking. Because these seams will show on the top of the finished concrete coffee table top, keep the edges as straight as possible. Placing double rows of painter’s tape inside the form before applying the caulking may help you create the straight seam. Remove the tape before pouring the concrete.

Place colored stones, glass tiles, leaves or other objects face down inside the concrete form, if you wish to have a decorative top. Hold the items in place with spray adhesive. Set the form on a level surface.

Mix concrete according to package directions. Do not add too much water. Stir the concrete well.

Place the concrete mixture inside the form, taking care not to disturb any of the items you placed in there. Work the concrete into all corners and try to work out as many bubbles as possible by tapping the sides of the form with a hammer.

Cover the concrete mixture with plastic. Allow it to cure the length of time recommended by the concrete manufacturer. This can be anywhere from four hours to two days. Temperature and humidity may also affect how long it takes the concrete to cure.

Pry off the sides of the concrete form with a small pry bar. Slide a putty knife between the concrete slab and the form to release the Melamine board. Wash away any remains of leaves you used as well as any Melamine that may remain on the concrete.

Create a rough edge for the concrete slab by chipping small pieces off with a hammer and chisel. Smooth any sharp edges with coarse sandpaper.

Set the concrete slab on the table base. Mark where the table meets the table top. Turn the table top over. Apply masonry cement or carpenter’s glue inside the line you marked. It’s also possible to use a hot glue gun to apply adhesive. Turn the table top back over and secure it to the base. Allow the glue time to dry before moving the table.