Woodworking Hub: Chunky Leg Console Table

Why I LOVE this Console Table

I love console tables. They add function to just about any space, tabletop surface for temporary setting things, and they can transform a space by being the foundation for decor, art and coordinated accessories.

This console I particularly love because the chunky legs create a frame for styling decor and accessories.

pottery barn console table

More reasons to love? It's solid wood, so you can paint or stain different colors, and has all the texture and warmth of a wood piece.

How I Built This Console Table

Here's the basic steps I took to build this coffee table. Keep in mind you can also build using a brad nailer and glue as I did with this coffee table.

First, I cut the boards according to the cut list using a miter saw for accuracy.

building a console table

Then I joined the tabletop and shelf 1x8s together as shown, using 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

console table build

Then I used a scrap wood piece to trace out the end of a 2x6 pieces to cut out for the legs.

cutting out legs

I used a jigsaw to cut out the legs from both the top and the shelf.

legs cut out console table

I cut out all four legs on both the panels.

console table

Now I can start adding the "aprons" that support the tabletop and shelves. I measure between the cut outs and cut 1x3 for top and 1x2 for shelf to match the measurement. Then I attached to the underside of the shelf/top with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

aprons for shelves

Then I measure in between the shorter aprons to get the measurement for the longer aprons. I cut these, and then attach with pocket holes. The top is supported by a 1x3 aprons. The bottom is supported by a 1x2 apron.

attach legs

Then I add the legs to the top - making sure the tabletop is level and checking that the legs are attached level.

adding bottom shelf console table

Last steps are to add the remaining legs and the bottom shelf. I attach to the legs using 1-1/4" screws and glue, three per joint.

Make sure the table sits flat and is level, if you need to make adjustments, do before the glue dries.

Video of Building this Collection

I didn't do a video of this console table, but I did do a video of the matching coffee table. Take a second to watch the quick video to see how this project goes together.