How to Build a Coffee Table on Casters
Instead of buying a coffee table that only kind of fits your needs and space, create your own that is a perfect match. We'll show you how to make your own two-tier coffee table on swivel casters, giving you a fashionable item of furniture that provides plenty of space for magazines, snack trays, and other items.
Skill
Beginner
Time
One Day
Cost
Less Than $500
What You Need for This Project
Materials
Putting the Coffee Table Together
- 1
Drill & Insert Hanger Bolts
Drill pilot holes into the leg ends without existing bolts. The hole size should be slightly smaller than the hanger bolt diameter and deep enough to leave 1 1/4 in.
- Option 1: Hold the middle area that is unthreaded with vise-grip pliers, and tighten the nut with a wrench.
- Option 2: Put one nut onto the hanger bolt that covers at least six threads, and add a second nut tightened right up against the first. Use a wrench on the second nut to tighten the bolt onto the legs so the hanger bolt goes into the leg as far as needed, then back up the wrench and remove both nuts.
Steps:
- 2
Attach Plates to Tabletop
Attach flat-top mounting plates to the tabletop, using a drill to drive in screws. Steps:
- 3
Align the Top with the Shelf & Legs
Position the top with attached legs on top of the bottom shelf so that all bottom shelf edges are in the same place. Make sure the shelf is aligned with the top. Steps:
- 4
Drill Holes on Bottom Shelf
Mark where the hanger bolt ends sit on the bottom shelf, and drill holes through the bottom shelf on these marks. Use a drill bit that's the same diameter as the hanger bolts. Steps:
- 5
Attach the Bottom Shelf
Turn the tabletop, with the legs attached, upside down. Attach the bottom shelf with hanger bolts by using the pilot holes you drilled in Step 1. Place fender washers, lock washers, and nuts onto the hanger bolts. Tighten the nuts. Steps:
- 6
Paint & Finish
Paint the coffee table in the colour and style you chose. Make sure the paint dries completely before attaching casters to the bottom shelf, and enjoy your new project. Steps:
How To Terms
Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors, or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures.
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