How to Build Behind the Couch Tables

A couch table adds a convenience and elegance to your living room. You can place the table between the back of a couch and the wall or set it against the back of a couch that is away from the wall. The table gives you extra surface area for another lamp or for an arrangement of candles or a small house plant. A couch table is a relatively simple project that you can complete in an afternoon.

Measuring tape
Saw
1-by-12 board, 5 feet long
4-by-4 post, 10 feet long
1-by-4 board, 6 feet long
2-inch screws
Drill and screwdriver bit
6 "L" brackets, 1-inch
3/4-inch screws
Sandpaper
Brush
Paint or wood stain
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the 1-by-12 board to 38 inches long. Cut the 4-by-4 post into four 28-inch lengths. Cut the 1-by-4 board into four 2 1/4-inch lengths, two 10 1/2-inch lengths, two 33-inch lengths and two 6-inch lengths.
- 2
  Place a 2 1/4-inch 1-by-4 board against a top corner on one of the 4-by-4 posts. Position the 2 1/4-inch board on the side of the post that will face the leg opposite it. Fasten the board to the post using two screws. Repeat with the remaining three 2 1/4-inch boards and 4-by-4 posts.
- 3
  Lay two 4-by-4 posts next to each other on a flat surface and place a 10 1/2-inch 1-by-4 board across the top of them, against the 2 1/4-inch board. Position the 10 1/2-inch piece on the side of the posts that will be underneath and inside the table. Fasten the 10 1/2-inch board to the posts using two screws on each side. Repeat with the other two posts and the other 10 1/2-inch board.
- 4
  Push a 6-inch length of the 1-by-4 between the joined legs, against the 2 1/4-inch boards. Screw in place using one screw on each side. Repeat with the other 6-inch length on the other set of legs.
- 5
  Position the end of a 33-inch 1-by-4 board against the edge of a 10 1/2-inch board on the legs and screw into place. Place the other set of legs on the other end of the 33-inch board and screw into place. Use two screws on each side. Repeat, attaching the other 33-inch board to the other side of the legs.
- 6
  Lay the 1-by-12 board flat on the ground. Center the legs on top of it. Position the portion with the 10 1/2- and 33-inch boards on it against the board. Place two "L" brackets against the underside of the board and against one of the 10 1/2-inch boards. Screw into place using 3/4-inch screws. Place two "L" brackets on the other side of the table against the other 10 1/2-inch board and screw into place. Place two "L" brackets in the middle of the table against the 33-inch boards and attach to the tabletop and the 33-inch boards.
- 7
  Turn the table right side up and sand to smooth any rough edges. Brush off any sawdust.
- 8
  Paint or stain the table as you wish. Let dry overnight, then apply another coat.

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