Build the super popular Rustic X Console Table. This woodworking project has been built thousands of times and loved the world over. Its made of construction lumber (yes, 2x4s!) and the plans are easy to follow. Free step by step plans from Ana-White.com.
Also in this Collection: Rustic X Coffee Table Plans, Rustic X End Table Plans and Rustic X Bench Plans

Preparation
- 6 – 2x2 @ 8 feet long
- 3 – 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 1 – 1x12 @ 12 feet long
- 3 – 2x6 @ stud length or 8 feet
- Corner hardware/decorative bolts
- 1 1/4" and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws
- 2 1/2" screws
- 12 – 2x2 @ 30”
- 6 – 2x4 @ 28 1/2"
- 2 – 1x12 @ 63 1/2"
- 5 – 2x4 @ 11 1/4"
- 2 – 2x2 @ 11 1/4"
- 2 – 2x2 @ 22 1/2" (long point to short point, ends parallel, cut at 60 degrees off square)
- 4 – 2x2 @ 11 1/4" (longest point to shortest point, long end cut at 60 degrees off square, short point cut at 30 degrees off square, angles are in same direction)
- 3 – 2x6 @ 74 1/2"
NOTE: If your saw does not cut 60 degrees off square, you will need to mark cuts with an angle square or compass/protractor and cut angles with circular saw or jigsaw. Practice this cut first on scraps!
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 2
Then attach frames to shelves. NOTE: I recommend drilling 3/4" pocket holess with Kreg Jig around all sides of each shelf for attaching all shelf trim with 1 1/4" Pocket Hole screws later on.
Step 3
Step 5
The X can be cut by just placing the uncut board alongside it's permanent position, and marking the overlap with a pencil, and then cutting the pencil lines with a circular saw or jigsaw.
First do the longer piece, then place inside the project, but don't attach yet.
The figure the smaller piece cuts and make those cuts.
Fit the smaller pieces in the project, and trace where they need to be joined to the larger piece.
Remove all pieces and attach the smaller pieces to the longer piece.
Then place the entire X inside the opening and attach.
Step 6
And then add the top. You can build top first with 1 1/2" pocket holes and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws and then attach to top through 2x4/2x2 aprons or just plank the top for a rustic look - it's up to you.
TIP: Just use your 2 1/2" pocket hole screws to attach the top so you don't have to go out and buy more 2 1/2" screws.
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
tedgray86
Tue, 01/21/2014 - 11:57
Stain
What color stain was used on this project? We like the farmhouse/rustic look.
Thanks
Ted
Mommy_Wong_Wegs
Tue, 01/21/2014 - 22:29
Tools
I am new here, but I LOVE this site. It's the most inspirational and empowering thing I've come across in a long while. I love this console and many other projects and I love that there is a list of tools that are needed. On this project it says a compound miter saw is needed. What size? For this type of project what are the best tools to a girl should invest in? If everything can be done with a smaller, less expensive tool then I don't want to buy a bigger, higher priced tool. Do you have a link somewhere on the site that I might be missing that gives a list of tools that will be frequently used on these types of projects? Sorry for all the questions, I don't mean to be a pest. I am just really impressed with you girls and inspired to try some new things.
khuckaby
Sun, 02/09/2014 - 15:13
Donation Value for Auction
We are making this to donate for an auction for a non-profit I'm involved in. Any ideas on FMV (they need it for the program & tax deductions)?
Cindylee
Fri, 04/04/2014 - 23:21
Pls help
I will like to have the same color on my console what is the step by step to have this this result on my table! Thanks!!
lovinridgebacks
Wed, 04/30/2014 - 13:30
PH fillers
So, I'm wondering if people typically use the pocket hole fillers in all the holes or is that just for anal people. If so, what is the process in filling the holes?
balloongal247
Fri, 05/09/2014 - 12:36
Weight Limit
Does anyone know what the weight limit for this would be? I thought it would be nice to make this with a foam bench seat, as described by one of the chair posts, to put at my kitchen bar in place of old counter height stools currently used mostly as bag rests.
My question is, would it be strong enough for two or three smallish adults to sit on, should the occasion arise? (So, could it hold 300-400lb safely?) I'd probably just use the cheapest grade of lumber, since this might be my first project, and I don't want to invest too much with a bunch of beginners building it. I will buy a kreg jig before working on any projects, so it would be put together with pocket hole construction.
wthalin
Thu, 07/03/2014 - 07:28
X-Bench?
Hello,
Has anyone used these plans and shrunk them down to make a bench? I am planning on making a bench that doubles as a media cabinet. Dimensions will be 60Wx18Hx14D and I was wondering if this will be sturdy enough for 3 people to sit on it. I made the X-side table and that piece was very sturdy so I am hoping this turns out the same.
Thanks for any tips!
michele098
Sun, 09/21/2014 - 15:53
Side brackets
Anyone know where the side black iron brackets are from? I just love the look and want to re-create!
Thanks!!
In reply to Side brackets by michele098
Stephen Peters
Sun, 09/21/2014 - 21:14
They are a regular hardware
They are a regular hardware store item called "angle iron". Just about any hardware store will have them. You will need to paint them black ... dark bronze....dark gray...to get the look you want. I'm just full of ideas....just paint them black. :) You know what.....they are refered to as "L-brackets" also. Have fun with your project.
Angie Overton
Sun, 10/26/2014 - 15:28
Cant wait to make this
I love this table. I don't have the space for one this large so I plan on cutting down the dimensions and making a smaller one. Thanks for the design and the easy directions. Cant wait to make this!