How tO Build a
wooden crate coffee table
Is your living room lacking storage space?
Well, with a little skill and ingenuity, you can
create the perfect storage solution with a crate
coffee table. This beautiful accent piece will
not only transform the look of your living room,
but it will also provide you with plenty of space
to stash books, DVDs, TV remotes and more!
Here’s how you can make your very own.
Shopping List
4 Wood Crates
4 Small L-Brackets
(16) 3/4" Wood Screws
Circular Saw
Safety Glasses
(1) 4' x 4' Plywood Panel
4 Locking Swivel Caster Wheels
Staining Brush
Pencil
Safety Gloves
1 Quart Wood Stain
(20) 5/8" Wood Screws
Cordless Screwdriver
Tape Measure
Drop Cloth (optional)
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Gather all supplies listed in the shopping list. In a well-ventilated area,
prepare crates for staining.
Tip: Consider sanding your wood crates before staining them. By sanding
with the grain, you’ll be able to remove deep scratches and ensure a
smoother finish.
Step 2: Stain Crates
Stain all four wood crates and allow to thoroughly dry. For a richer finish,
apply an additional coat of stain.
Tip: The plywood panel may be used as an alternative to a drop cloth since
the main surfaces of the plywood will not be visible once this project is
complete.
Step 3: Assemble Crates
Once the stain is completely dry, lay the crates on their sides, making
sure that all the open edging faces outwards. Arrange the crates so they
create a square shape with a smaller, square-shaped hole in the middle.
Once you’re satisfied with your coffee table shape, fasten the crates
together. For a stronger hold, screw four 5/8” screws through the slats of
one crate into the thicker side of the next crate.
Step 4: Measure & Cut
Place the assembled crates on top of the piece of plywood. Measure
and mark the outside dimensions of the crate. On a different section of
the plywood, measure and mark the dimensions for the recessed center
shelf. Cut out both pieces of plywood. In a well-ventilated area, stain and
allow to thoroughly dry.
Step 5: Secure Base & Affix Caster Wheels
Lay the larger piece of stained plywood on the crates. Place a caster
wheel at each corner of the base, making sure all four holes of the
mounting plate are located above crate slats. Secure casters to base and
crates using 3/4” screws.
Step 6: Insert Recessed Shelf
Once all the caster wheels are in place, flip the coffee table right-side up.
Place all four L-brackets into the middle hole of the coffee table. Making
sure they’re all level, use 5/8” screws to secure the brackets to each side
of the square-shaped hole. Insert the smaller plywood piece on top of the
L-brackets.
Step 7: Decorate
Now it’s time to decorate! Personalize your crate coffee table by filling
the recessed shelf with colorful stones and pebbles, a small succulent
garden, a collection of candles, or even an interesting tray display.
There are several ways you can add your own spin to this project! Instead of caster wheels, use table legs
or furniture feet! Or, you can extend the length of your coffee table by adding two more crates; this will give
you a rectangular table instead of a square-shaped one!
Information for reference only. Items and availability may vary.
Always review the operating and safety instructions outlined in your power tool's owner manual before
beginning construction. Working with wood is inherently dangerous, so be sure to protect your eyes, hands
and feet with the proper safety attire.