Community Brag Posts

Rustic Farm Table and Benches

Submitted by verymom on Mon, 05/23/2011 - 17:13

We shortened the table and lengthened the benches - you can see all our details and changes in the blog link.

Estimated Cost
120
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Paint & Minwax stain (finish took way longer than building!)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Bedside End Tables

Submitted by Grace734 on Mon, 02/05/2018 - 07:38

These are made from the three drawer plans but modified the size to meet our needs and used planks for shelves instead of drawers. Painted white and black gel stain. 

 

UPDATE FROM ANA - We have received MANY requests for this plan and have created a plan inspired by this post here.

Shopping List (for ONE bedside table) + Tools

  • 1 - 1x2 @ 6 feet long
  • 5 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 1-1/4" and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws
  • 1-1/4" brad nails
  • wood glue
  • Kreg Jig
  • Compound Miter saw
  • Drill
  • Brad Nailer (18 guage)

Cut List (for ONE bedside table)

  • 4 - 1x2 @ 14" - Side panel trim
  • 8 - 1x4 @ 23-1/4" - Side panels
  • 4 - 2x2 @ 27-1/4" - Legs
  • 6 - 2x2 @ 14" - Shelf support
  • 8 - 1x4 @ 17" - Shelves
  • 5 - 1x4 @ 18" - Top

Cut 1x4s and 1x2s with miter saw. Layout side panel 1x4s as shown above.  Measure and cut 1x2 to length.  Nail the 1x2 to the 1x4s, two nails per overlap with glue.  Make sure your side panels are square.  Build two.

Drill 3/4" pocket holes on inside edge of 1x4 ends as shown above.  Cut 2x2s with compound miter saw. Attach to the 2x2 legs with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Set Kreg Jig to 1-1/2" setting.  Drill 1-1/2" pocket holes on end of each 2x2, one per end.  Attach to 2x2s with wood glue as shown above.

Cut 1x4 shelf boards with compound miter saw.  Nail and glue to the inside of the project as shown above.

Cut 1x4 top boards with compound miter saw.  Nail and glue to top with 1-1/4" nails and wood glue.

If you wish to add a back, measure and cut from 1/4" plywood and attach with 3/4" brad nails.

Estimated Cost
100.00 for both.
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
One coat of eggshell white PPG
Two coats of ebony gel stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Modified Simple Outdoor Dining Table

Submitted by ewood on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 08:04

Wanted a Patio table and when I saw the plans on this site I really liked it; I just changed the plan a bit. Everything was screwed from the underside of the table, also I attached the legs with 2" lag screws.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Teeter Totter

This is one of the cheapest projects for my kids I have ever completed!! And the most rewarding. I think everyone of my neighbors has been on the teeter totter...including adults :) My kids just love it and I am thinking of making a few for my nephews for Christmas. I was able to find all the wood I needed in my scrap pile. I had the PVC pipe and bolt already also so all I had to make a trip to the store for was the foam for the seats. My son helped me build this in an hour. I liked the unfinished look so I just sprayed it with a little Thompson Water Seal. Thank you Ana White!!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$0 Lumber (scrap wood) $5 Foam padding
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Thompson Water Seal
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Seasonal And Holiday

Modern Adirondack Chairs

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 04/24/2022 - 12:05

I made these from your plans thanks for sharing your ideas with us.

by Jeff

Christmas tree box

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 11/26/2022 - 15:29

I made this plan at my wifes’s request. I added a platform on the inside for our artificial tree and stencils on the outside of each side. Plan was relatively easy. We love the look. Bonus, made the tree taller. George from Arizona.

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

Farm House Table and Benches

Submitted by markelll on Mon, 09/12/2011 - 09:28

I wanted a big rustic farm table, didn't want to drop thousands on one from a store, so I decided to make my own!

I built it in the (formerly empty) dining room, with tarp on the floor and plastic to seal the doorways.

Was a big project and my first project so I started with the benches as this site and users recommended.

I used the farm house bench plan - just shortened the dimensions so that I could have two benches on either side of the table. Then I merged the two table plans so that I could have the top with the bread boards but legs that attached underneath (like the rustic table) so that they could be removed when we move. I'll work to upload my plans too.

Used Minwax Wood Stain in "english chestnut" and Deft Satin Wood Brushing Lacquer (instead of a Polyurethane).

Estimated Cost
approximately $300 (for wood, finish, sand paper, stain, screws..)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Minwax "English Chestnut" and
Deft Satin Wood Brushing Lacquer to finish.

I prepped the wood by sanding it down to 220 (could have done an even better job sanding, and sanded the table and bench tops even finer).
Used a sponge brush to apply the wood stain, wiped off rather quickly (only a few minutes on the wood).
Used brush to apply Deft Sating Wood Brushing Lacquer. Used spray can of Deft when I ran out of liquid. Didn't go on as thick. Although using a brush is more of a hassle, it had a better coat.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Guest (not verified)

Sun, 09/25/2011 - 12:18

Your use of short benches makes the set more family and guest friendly. I usually hand rub my finish, I think i want to build this and probably use 0ak 2X12's (know it will be heavy).

Suggestions?

I will use it on a Florida roofed concrete deck for an outdoor dining area. Typically more formal dinners. Deck overlooks beautiful cove.

Guest (not verified)

Thu, 10/13/2011 - 11:00

Can you explain how you merged the plans to add the bread boards? I would love to do the same!

Jeff (not verified)

Fri, 06/01/2012 - 09:09

This is exactly what I am looking for in a table to build. We want bread boards on the end and we don't want stretchers on the bottom. How did you combine the two to do this. Can you send me a copy of your plan? [email protected]

Kimberly Dassel (not verified)

Sat, 08/04/2012 - 13:35

Could you please send me the plans for this table? I love it and would love to attempy making it. Thanks so much!

Joe (not verified)

Wed, 01/02/2013 - 15:53

Your farm table and benches were exactly what I was looking for. Please send me the plans if they are available. Thanks

Faye Sawatzky (not verified)

Wed, 01/02/2013 - 19:23

I would love a copy of the plans for this gorgeous table you made. I am inspired.

Kelly Lucas (not verified)

Tue, 01/22/2013 - 15:26

Would love, love the plans for this project if you are willing to share. Many thanks! :)

danno2084

Fri, 01/25/2013 - 20:57

I'm sure you've heard this a hundred times already, but we've been looking for a very long time for a table like this. We would also love the plans if you're sharing. Thanks for the great blog!

jsh2001

Tue, 01/29/2013 - 07:47

Getting ready to build my own and now you have me thinking I prefer this design with no stretchers on the bottom. Looks great!!!

Mammavof3

Sat, 03/16/2013 - 20:12

Can I please please please have the plans? I have a very narrow dining area and this table is PERFECT. Thanks

PorkyPok

Wed, 05/08/2013 - 13:30

I too would really love/need these plans. PLEASE. Thanks :)

Cbreck21

Sun, 05/12/2013 - 14:30

I would REALLY like the plans for his version as well. I am going to combine them. Can someone ask him to post or his he sending via email? If so, [email protected]

Thank you SO much!!!

wendykeeler

Mon, 07/15/2013 - 09:48

just bought a cabin and need all sorts of furniture. I love what you did and would sure love to have your plans and how you merged the two----both for the table and especially for the benches. Trying to do a 10' table for huge family gatherings. Thanks so much! You rock!

Sarina88

Tue, 07/23/2013 - 14:28

This table and bench set is exactly what I am looking for. You did such a great job!

Do you have plans that you wouldnt mind sending to my email? [email protected]

KailuaGirl

Fri, 09/06/2013 - 14:25

Hi There!
It seems like there are no replies to the many requests for the merged plans.
I'm guessing he used the top of one set of plans and the bottom portion of the other set of plans?? I will attempt to tweak myself..
Good Luck!

markelll

Fri, 01/09/2015 - 19:54

Hi everyone,
Well I didn't see all these comments! Sorry to have ignored your requests for plans!

This is the bench I made (I did four of these, and adjusted the measurements so they were each about 40" long)
http://ana-white.com/2011/01/farmhouse-bench

I was going to do this table, because it matches the benches, but decided I wanted a table with removable legs so it would be more maneuverable when we move!
http://ana-white.com/2009/12/plans-farmhouse-table-knock-off-of.html

I ended up using more of this plan in terms of how I assembled it, but adjusted the plans to have the tabletop include breadboards (the plank on top perpendicular to the long tabletop planks) and I used 4x4s for legs, plus the top was from 2x8s not 1x10s. I put in the optional cross supports too, and additional supports under the breadboard to connect it to the table frame and table top slats.. this is more info than you need, all to say, plans are flexible and you can do what you want!
http://ana-white.com/2010/03/plans-very-rustic-table-and-cool.html

Sorry I don't have detailed notes. I was very picky about the dimensions (based on space) and how high I wanted the table (about 1.5" taller than a normal table). I also measure the distance between the underside of the table and the tops of the benches so I could cross my legs under the table (an odd requirement).

Happy Building!

brentlbg

Wed, 04/01/2015 - 15:10

I like the english chestnut stain. That works so well with this type of lumber. Great job. I plan to use the same stain on the Tryde coffee table I am building. Thanks for sharing your work!!!

Adapted to Printer Stand

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 03/05/2019 - 05:30

I adapted the plan to make a stand for our printer and shredder.  Except for one board, I was able to use scraps so my total out of pocket was $9!  I did plane the 2x material to 1 1/4”, and also used 2x material for the base to add a little strength to hold the shredder.  Thank you Ana White, for generously sharing your plans!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$9
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Top - mixed brown and gray rustoleum stains. Finished with poly acrylic
Base - latex eggshell trim paint (custom mix leftover)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

First build using Farmhouse Truss Kitchen Table plans

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 02/18/2020 - 01:24

I followed the basic plans but added a couple 12x2” metal supports for each breadboard. This was a must. I used Douglas fir for the entire project from Home Depot.

My 2 kids helped me put a few screws in, otherwise I did this myself. The wife really loved it and was a bit surprised coming back from her facial spot on Valentines Day. It turned out better than I could have hoped, especially considering this was my first real woodworking build.

Great plans and nuggets of advice from everyone else made this really fun and not so scary!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$200
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Used 2 coats of all-purpose primer and 2 coats of classic white indoor paint. For the top, I just used 3 coats of Semi-gloss polyurethane(thinned out with mineral spirits), but I most likely will be adding 2 more and finishing with a satin polyurethane to get extra protection from the kids.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Fancy Hall Tree - First Project!

This was my first major woodworking project, and I am so pleased with it! I have been looking for a piece of furniture like this and couldn't find something that I liked and could afford. I spent about $180 in lumber, and also took Ana's advice and invested in a Kreg Jig. I HIGHLY recommend this! It is expensive ($100) but so worth it. I had to learn a few things along the way, and had encountered some obstacles, but in the end I am very pleased with the project. A few things I learned on my first project:

1. Exact cuts are SO important. Every 1/8" matters. It was helpful to do as many cuts as possible at the lumber store.

2. Ana mentions this in her beginners section, but it bears repeating: wood glue will repel stain. Be sure to wipe away ALL residue of wood glue before staining, and be sure to give extra sanding attention to areas that had wood glue. Otherwise you will have a white spot in the midst of your stain.

3. On this plan in particular there is one change that I recommend. Do not add the wrap around trip on the top and bottom until AFTER you have put the plywood backing on in the last step. The reason is that the plywood adds another 3/4 inch, and so there was a gap between the edge of the trip and the back on the furniture. I redid it on the top because it was so noticeable.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$180
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Minwax Dark Walnut, satin polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Simple Bunk Bed

Submitted by rogers99 on Sat, 05/23/2020 - 10:42

Built mostly from the Simple Bunk Bed plans on this site with a couple of modifications. Namely: made a vertical ladder, used Rockler Bed rail fasteners, increased bed height to fit 3rd twin mattress underneath for when my moms visits, and made a removable bottom safety rail that slides on when my daughter goes to sleep. Overall it was a fun project to do and they kids are really enjoying it.

Estimated Cost
380
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Cute DIY Pallet Potting Bench

Submitted by shampbel on Wed, 09/12/2012 - 20:33

Made from 2 pallets, 2 x 6 x 8, leftover trim from my house, wood branch from my backyard. Attached shelf with pocket holes.

Accents:
-Handpainted lettering; painted prior to glazing entire piece
-Finials made from 4.25 inch spray painted and glazed clay pots and saucers coated with Valspar clear finish and attached together with epoxy; buttons attached to pots with E6000 adhesive
-Buttons attached mostly with small screws; a few with holes too small for screws were attached with epoxy
-Plastic flowers made from mayo and water bottles and lids; sanded, primed, spray painted, coated with Valspar clear coating; attached with screws
-Faucet knobs sanded, spray painted, glazed and attached with screws
-Plumbing pipe filled with plumber epoxy puttty; insert screw into putty before it hardened, then screwed into wood
-Gardening tool hooks made from pant wire hangers with a few beads attached; wire simply wrapped around tree branch

Not sure that I will use pallet wood again since difficult to pull apart pallets, uneven and some split boards could not be used, and required tons of sanding for those boards that could be used. I think I paid more for orbital sanding pads than the cost of buying new wood. Will use pallet wood for other non-furniture projects not requiring a perfect finish.

Estimated Cost
$40.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Kids distressed with hammers, sanded with 80 grit, Kilz Primer (1 coat), Sherwin Williams Exterior White Latex Paint (1 coat), Behr Glaze tinted with Brown Latex, Spar Urethane (3 coats)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Enjoying my new desk

Submitted by triad107 on Tue, 10/18/2016 - 08:42

Took 2.5 hrs to cut, fasten and sand, and approximately 24-48 hrs to paint, stain and poly.

 

This has been a very rewarding project. Now I have people comissioning work!

 

Thanks for the plans

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
Wood: Fur 28$
Paint: $15
Stain: $5
Polyeurethane: $5
Screws: $9.50
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Paint, and Dark Walnut Stain, polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Mini Firewood Shed

I made this using plans submitted by pericles49. Thank you, pericles49!

 

I altered the design to use materials I had laying around, and changed the size to fit my space. That made it take a little longer - especially because changing the fastening pattern is still tricky for me - trying to keep screws from hitting each other.

 

Design

I made mine a little deeper 27-1/2" instead of 24 on the plan.

 

Materials

  • Landscape timbers I had laying around. To save on weight, and wood, I ripped a couple of the landscape timerbers down the middle.
  • Roof - 5-V crimp tin roof
  • 1x4 pine boards (2nds from other projects)
  • 1x4 and 1x2 cyprus boards (2nds from a construction project)

What I'd do differently next time

  • The weight of the firewood is resting on the screws that fasten the floor to the posts. Next time I'll make the wood support the weight, and the screws just hold it in place.

 

 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$6
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

First Project

Submitted by dragondad on Thu, 08/06/2020 - 11:34

Well, I started with one chair and finished with a full set. Not bad for a first timer. Definitely room to improve. Little tip if you're going to make this amazing set... raise the backs as they are too low with thicker cushions. I built a casing to go on top after the fact. Pretty happy with how it all turned out. Thanks Ana for the plans... now onto the next project!

Comments

Small cedar shed part- re deux

Submitted by Kyleelou on Mon, 08/31/2020 - 12:06

I really needed somewhere to park my rototiller and mower during the summer and ended up modifying the plans to include a lean-too/over hang area. This required flipping the shed to extend the roof line. I continued the 15• roofline and also then had to create and cover the soffits. I also reduced it to one door and placed it on a skid foundation so that technically it would be considered a temporary structure, no permits needed. I first used a semi transparent stain that looked much darker and grayer in the store but looked very blue and terribly streaky on the shed, see back wall area. I then restrained it with a solid stain, which I think looks much better and covered the streaky stain. Because I extended the roof and stained it twice, this really increased the cost, but I think it was well worth it. I can store all my yard and garden tools underneath and inside.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$430
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Behr premium solid stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

4x4 truss beam table - working breadboard ends and matching bench

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/09/2017 - 16:17

mortise and tenon joints with dado for breadboards

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$300
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Custom stain mix
Recommended Skill Level
Advanced

Comments

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