How to Make a Table From Used Lumber

Determine the size of the table you want to construct. Use the measuring tape to measure the area in which you will place the table. Based on the space, determine the appropriate height, length, and width of your table.

Sketch out a basic design of your table, with dimensions. To achieve the butcher block look for this table, you will cut the used lumber to varying lengths and then piece them together so that each section has the same length. Each section will look different as some sections will have multiple pieces and others will only have one.

Measure and cut the wood down to size based on the measurements from Steps 1 and 2. Use the table saw to cut half of your 1 by 6 used lumber planks in half lengthwise, to convert them into 1 by 3 planks. Cut each of the full-sized planks (the remaining 1 by 6 planks) into the desired length for your table. When assembled these planks will become the table top.

Cut down the full-sized boards into varying pieces. For example, if your table is going to be 60 inches in length, you can cut one plank into three pieces that are 20 inches long or two pieces that are 30 inches long. Leave some planks at the full length for variety. Keep these pieces together for later assembly.

Lay out each of the planks on you work surface to determine the placement of each plank. Planks that were cut in various sizes, per Step 4, should be laid out together to avoid creating a jagged edge. Spread the full-length boards throughout the table to provide strength for your design. Once the entire table is laid out, and you are happy with the design, you can move on to the assembly part of the process.

Assemble the table top. Drill a hole in each board to connect it to the adjacent section. Drill a screw into each of the pre-drilled holes.

Brace the underside of the table, adding stability to the structure. Cut down two to three 1 by 6 boards, depending on the length of your table, for the braces. Each brace should be three inches shorter than the width of the table. Attach the braces to the table using the same process as Step 6.

Cut the legs for your table. Use the measurements from step one to cut eight 1 by 6 planks down to the right height. Attach two planks together using the process in Step 6 to create each table leg.

Use the table leg brackets to attach the table legs to the top of the table. Drill holes in the table top that match the holes on the leg brackets. Screw the table leg brackets into place. Follow the specific instructions on the table leg brackets for best result.

Use the sand paper to sand the table top and remove splinters from the reused lumber. Do not sand the table completely if you want the table to look more rustic.

Use the paint brush to apply a thin coat of wood sealer onto the entire surface area of the table, including the table legs. Allow the wood sealer to fully dry before moving the table.