Builder's Studio: Sofa Console Table

If the 1 x 12 boards are a bit too long, cut them to an overall length of 6 feet using a miter saw. This will also create a perfectly squared edge.

Next, we can mark out the locations for our 4 x 1 lumber which will serve as the main support for this build.

Each support will be one solid piece so there will need to be four holes cut in the middle shelf to allow the boards to pass through seamlessly. To do this, mark the center of the board to create a reference line that allows you to keep both ends matched up correctly. Next, make a mark that is 8 ½” inches in from the edge of the shelf. This is where the edge of the support board will start and you will be able to sketch out the shape of the board for easy reference when cutting later. The 4x1 true stock is accurately sized so no trimming is necessary. The measurements of these boards can be transferred to the shelf board for a proper fit. The location of the support boards is completely your preference. To determine the middle support dimensions, mark the middle of the length of the shelf (at 36 inches) and create marks for two of the 4x1 supports.

To cut out the necessary passing holes, you can use a drill bit to start and then a jigsaw to trace out the lines originally created. This will make sure the cuts are as square as possible. Use a straight edge if needed.

Once the hole is cut, you can use some sandpaper to smooth out the interior surface which will allow the board to pass through a little easier. Repeat this process for the remaining passing holes.

Once the middle shelf board is completed, sand the top side of it to 220 grit and add a small roundover on the bottom edge.

Next, install the bun feet to the bottom shelf board. To do this, first countersink a hole on the top side of the shelf board that can be filled with a wood plug later. Next, slide the furniture feet under the board and install with a wood screw from the top side. We installed the bun feet on this project 5” from the edge of the shelf board. This can be adjusted based on your preferences.

Next, cut out some wood plugs from a scrap piece of pine. Use a plug-cutting bit on the drill press. If you don’t have a drill press, you can do this with a hand drill just make sure to clamp the workpiece down when drilling. To remove the plugs, use a small chisel to pry them out of the wood.

Fill the screw holes with some wood glue and insert the plug. You can attempt to match the grain pattern as best as you can. Once the glue is dry, you can file or sand the plugs down to be flush with the rest of the board. 

Attach the support board using wood screws through the bottom and top shelf boards. Start by pre-drilling at the screw locations to avoid cackling or splitting the wood. We also recommend using a two-step bit on the bottom side to countersink the hole just slightly so that the screw can be recessed better. Next, cut the support boards to length (23 ¾”). Once cut, attach these supports to the bottom shelf by using wood glue to align the board onto the marks created earlier. Then, insert a screw in the pre-drilled holes. 

Flip the assembly around and repeat this process for the remaining support boards.

Next, test fit the middle shelf to make sure it spaced evenly on both ends. The fit may be a little snug so a rubber mallet may be needed for assembly. To keep the middle shelf board in place, install some 1” wood dowels in the center of the support boards.

To use dowels, first mark some lines on the support boards. Once the shelf is in the correct spot for easy reassembly, cut the dowels to 11 ¼” length. This is the exact width of the shelf boards. To create the holes for the dowels, measure the middle of the shelf board and use a 1” spade bit to bore out the holes.

Next, reinstall the middle shelf board and insert the dowels into the pre-drilled holes. These will keep the middle shelf board from sagging and should hold a decent amount of weight depending on the wood type used.

To complete this assembly, center the top onto the support boards. Make sure to align the marks created earlier. Use a two-step bit to countersink a hole for a wood screw. Use a wood plug to cover.

Now that the table is assembled, sand it to 220 grit and apply the finish of your choice.