Community Brag Posts

We have a limited amount of counter space in our kitchen, while also having a large open space that is unused. We've always planned on including an island once we renovate, but we didn't want to wait. We decided to build a butcher block-style island with open shelving underneath - a simple design that would give us all the counter space we needed and some additional storage space.

We bought a premade bamboo tabletop, as well as 4x4 cedar posts for the legs, 2x4s for the framework, and 1x2 slats for the shelf.

You can see all of the details of how we built it in the blog post, but here are a few of the features:

- an interior framework that connects to the tabletop and outer framework so that no screws are visible on the outside

- countersunk GRK structural screws used to attach the legs htat look like carriage bolts

-feet are angle cut so that floor is less likely to be scratched if the island is moved

We're really proud of this build and are enjoying having so much extra counter space. It's amazing what you can get done in a weekend!

Took about 1 week to finish the project. I like the overall result.

Instead of using pocket hole to join the top, I use dowel and glue to join the board together. Clamp the top in sections then combine 2 large piece together. 

using the speed squre to create the 45 degree angle and use the circular saw to cut out the angled section. 

I used the table saw to cut off the round edge on 2x2 to create smooth Table apron.

Use wood filer to fill all the crack and hole from brad nail/joint. 

apply 2 layer of stain. allow it to dry overnight. Then Thin out poly with minaral Spirit to wipe on 4-5 layers.

sand finish in between with 330 grit paper

My version of Modern Farmhouse Bed. Let me know if you have any questions.

I needed a heavy duty dog bed for my puppy after he destroyed two regular dog beds. I used 4x4s, 2x4s and fire hose. He has not been able to destroy this one and he loves it.

This is my first real project that I took my time on. Actually my first real project ever. I wanted to replace my Ikea console table because it has started to bow (Ikea furniture does not fend well on moves). I modified the measurements and this is now 24" wide 18" tall - same length. Solid piece of furniture. I could not find all the lumber, but I improvised. Since this was my first project, I could not get the boards to match up all too well, and I do not have a chop saw that would cut a 2x6 - when I placed the 2x6 I did not like the look so I swapped it out with 2x4's.

I used Rustoleum black lacquer spray paint. I like how the grain came out, however, it took way too much spray paint. I will consider using black latex paint next time.

I have since applied 2 coats of poly and sanded it down and steel wooled it - and finally a coat of paste wax to preserve it. If I do not like the imperfections, I just might make it an outside patio table.

Thank you so much for these plans, I spend 3 hours at work looking through all the plans on you site. I even have bought the lumber for my next project - an outdoor table (same design) so that I can use it next to the grill as a counter surface and wire baskets.

***UPDATE*** - I finished the table, however it came out 4" less wide than the old table, however I was able to re-purpose it and use it as an end table for one of the guest bedrooms. The table could have come out a little better, I guess I can only get better!

Again thank you!

I built this for my little girl's room and she loves it! She loves the play area underneath especially. The build did not take that long, but the finishing (sanding and painting) took many hours. It is very sturdy. My girls sleep up there together all the time, and we have even had adults sleep up there. We didn't have a corner to put it in, so I built wider steps along the same wall as the bed. 

I built this twin bed with drawers for my daughter and I LOVE all the storage the drawers provide.  I slightly modified the plans it was based off of--you can find more info and see details from the build on my blog House Becoming Home.

I modified the Small Old English Style Farmhouse Dining Table plan to build a writing desk.   I used five 1x6 boards for the top for a width of 27.5 inches.   I made my desk 56 inches in length.  I put the drawer on the long side like a pencil drawer.   I did use the legs that Ana recommended in the plan.   I love how it turned out.  I used dark walnut danish oil and dark wax for the finish.  

My mom bought a similar one several years ago and I've been wanting something like this ever since...so glad I came across this site so I can proudly say I built it myself whenever someone asks!

I built the coat rack along with the mail sorter and rustic bench for the long hallway to the garage since our new house doesn't have a mud room. I modified it to a length of 6'.  All but a couple pieces are made from poplar.  I burnt the stained pieces with a torch, then put a quick coat of Special Walnut on them.  The painted pieces are Rustoleum Weathered Wood.  Hooks are from Home Depot.