Living in a small home will quickly teach you how valuable space is. Bulky furniture may quickly become the bane of your existence when square footage isn’t something you can spare. For us, the end tables were the first thing to get cut from the list, but as a coffee addict, reader and avid laptop user I quickly missed the convenience of these little tables. If you’re struggling with these same first world problems or just prefer a more minimal furniture look, search no further than these space saving DIY end tables.
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The C Table
To make these space saving end tables, formally known as the C table, you will first need to measure the ends of your couch. Since every couch is different, you will need to figure out your custom measurements.
If you “just can’t” with the power tools today, consider purchasing this C table which has a similar look.
To find your overall height measure from the floor to the top of the arm of your couch. Add one inch to this measurement so you have a bit of wiggle room and the C table doesn’t rub against the arm. Be sure to include your casters and top/bottom boards into the overall height when you are calculating how tall your middle pieces need to be. It really helps me to draw it all out and test my measurements before cutting.
For my C tables, I used two 1x12x8 pine boards. One board for each of my end tables. Each board was cut into 4 pieces. The two middle pieces are custom cut to fit my couch height, and the bottom and top piece were 23 ” (two boards width). Be sure the width of you C table fits between your couches legs.
Assembly
Assemble your space saving side tables by screwing the bottom and top pieces directly into you two middle pieces.
Add four large L brackets like these to make the C table super durable. Then, flip the C table over and install four casters to the four corners of your base piece.
You should end up with something that looks like the photo above. This is a good time to do a dry fit and make sure everything fits nicely against your couch.
Paint and Trim
I primed and painted my C tables white, but they seemed a bit plain for my taste. So I went back to the drawing board and decided to add some reclaimed wood to the top.
For a chevron look, start by finding the center line of your top board. Cut the reclaimed boards at 45 degree angles and line them up with the center line.
After the board is lined up with the center line, use a pencil to trace along the underside of the board where it meets the edge. This will give you a clear guide as to where you need to trim the board.
Glue or nail your reclaimed wood down to the top of your C table. Continue this process until you’ve completely covered the top of your end table.
For a more finished look, you can trim the entire top with 1×2 boards.
Convenient and Space Saving
After a little stain and sealer, these end tables are ready to keep your coffee at arm’s reach without taking up any extra space.
Much more convenient than traditional end tables, these C tables can easily be rolled to your favorite spot on the couch.
As an added bonus, these space saving end tables act as a great repellent for kids who like to climb on the arms of the couch.
I hope this helps you save some space. Enjoy!
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