Free plans to build a Farmhouse Table. This table has been built tens of thousands of times and is loved the world over for it's basic material composition, simple clean lines, easy to build steps, and sturdy, functional size. Our step by step plans with diagrams make it easy.
This plan uses pocket holes and is the updated plan. We also have this plan available to build without pocket holes.

Preparation
- 4 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 4x4 @ 10 feet long
- 4 - 2x8 @ 6 feet long
- 1 - 2x8 @ 8 feet long (breadboard ends)
- 1 - 2x10 @ 6 feet long
- 4 - 4x4 posts @ 29" (legs)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 67" (long aprons)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 27" (short aprons)
- 1 - 2x4 @ 74" (stretcher)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 34" (stretcher supports)
- 4 - 2x8 @ 70.5" (table top planks)
- 1 - 2x10@ 70-1/2" (center table top plank -- I had to use one 2x10 to get the right overall width)
- 2 - 2x8 ~38" (breadboard ends -- measure your joined tabletop before cutting these)
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
First, cut and notch out the 4x4s. If you can get your home improvement store to make square cuts, ask them to cut your 4x4s. Otherwise, you'll need a 12" (maybe a 10" will work too) miter saw or set your circular saw to the deepest possible cut. Cut one side, flip the 4x4 and finish the cut on the bottom side. Sand until cut is smooth. You'll probably add cork or felt pads under the legs later on to level table up and protect your floor.
Then notch out the stretcher joint as shown in diagram. Definitely practice first on a scrap if you can. This is easier to do than it looks - just be sure to get the top and bottom cut right, and it will all work out!
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
TheExodu5
Sat, 08/24/2019 - 17:27
For the cracking issue, as…
For the cracking issue, as long as you only use screws for your breadboard ends, you should be fine. It's fine to glue the rest of the pieces lengthwise since the wood only contracts/expands across the grain.
Will Brown
Fri, 05/31/2019 - 11:41
Clamping
I am looking at building this and was wondering- is everyone screwing, gluing and clamping as you join each of the table top boards, letting them dry and then joining the next one? Or gluing and screwing them all together and then clamping the entire thing?
TheExodu5
Sat, 08/24/2019 - 17:23
I glued two pieces together,…
I glued two pieces together, clamped them, screwed them in, and moved on to the next piece. The crews act as a strong enough clamp. I used the heavier HD screws, though.
Tom B
Wed, 08/14/2019 - 18:43
Wood selection
Make sure to use kiln dried wood. Construction lumber from the big box stores still has too much moister. My table warped in the inside heat during the winter, relaxed outside in the spring humidity, but still oozed sap in the hot sun.
rocky06
Wed, 10/23/2019 - 11:13
Adjusted cuts for small kitchen (45-50”)
Is there an adjusted plan for 45-50inch long table? I don’t have a big kitchen.
JustJ
Wed, 11/20/2019 - 10:22
modify to make this 11ft long
Can you tell me how you would modify this, to make it 11ft long? Would you a center support?
Thanks!!
Lacy1883
Wed, 06/03/2020 - 21:55
Stain
I love the look of this table and was wondering if you knew what stain was used. I tried clicking on the link to see how Hilary finished the table but the links are no longer valid.
Mapen07
Tue, 07/21/2020 - 09:57
There have been a comments…
There have been a comments about the pocket screws going through the top. Someone mentioned changing the depth, another using smaller screws. Changing the collar on your drill bit would likely be the easiest fix for this just make it so it’s an 1/8” more shallow. Keeps the extra length of the 2 1/2” screw instead of shorting it 1/2”.
Also I used HD screws from the center out for the bread boards for added strength. Went vent out because as another user mentioned screwing into the end of a board is always weaker and works loose.
sylvialh
Sat, 08/29/2020 - 11:16
One of the first ana white…
One of the first ana white tables I made! I used 2x4 x 2 instead of 4x4 for the legs and made it so the whole thing came apart with bolts (the legs separated from the top) so we were able to move it. (4 times before I sold it!) Now I'm looking at making a second that fits our space better. Love this plan!
blacourse
Tue, 09/08/2020 - 08:15
What stain was used in this…
What stain was used in this project?
Interested in how the stain was applied, i.e. cloth or brush?
Finally, did you use poly to protect the top or would you recommend that?
This is my first furniture project and I'm just finishing up construction!
Thank you,
Brian