Browse catalogs, stores and websites to get a sense of the table style you prefer most. Consider aspects such as wood variety, height, width and stain color. Look closely at the complexity of your favorite tables and any detailing such as inlaid wood or carving.
Choose a tabletop style. Consider solid blocks of one type of wood for an easier-to-make table. Other options include using a variety of wood planks, piecing together wood tiles or creating inlaid borders. Consider purchasing a pre-made tabletop or refinishing the top of an old table and pairing it with new legs.
Decide on the style of table legs you prefer. Legs can be made in a variety of styles such as tapered, straight, ornately carved or plain. Purchase the wood for the legs and cut and shape them yourself, buy unfinished table legs from a mill store or refinish legs from an old table.
Use reclaimed wood for your table if recycling and eco-friendly materials are important to you. Purchase the wood from a reclaimed-lumber yard or use wood from old doors or other furniture. Base your material choices on the specific design for your table.
Create a simple table from a single piece of wood for the top and pre-purchased legs. More detailed tables can be made by combining planks or wood tiles. Choose a plan from woodworking magazines, websites or books that fits your skill level, or design your own plan if you have experience building furniture.