Last Updated on August 5, 2024 by teamobn
It’s amazing how something incredibly beautiful can come from things we label as trash or scrap. Take this wood scrap end table as an example! It hasn’t come from a high-end furniture shop. In fact, this end table is made from bits of scrap timber that 99% of us would trash. Just think of all those offcuts you’ve binned! Heck, I’ve probably discarded enough to make a thousand tables like this 🙁
The only bought materials for this end table are the legs and the felt pads under them. Everything else is easily found in your workshop or the nearest building site!
From scrap to an expensive-looking piece of furniture! Next time you’re done with a timber project, think twice about throwing away those offcuts you thought were too small to build anything with.
If you have a mountain of leftover scrap timber, what are you waiting for? Start building your own stylish end table!
Contents
Building a Wood Scrap End Table
Materials
- Newspaper
- Wood Glue
- Safety Goggles
- Mask
- Gloves
- Old Cloth/Rag
- Wood Finish
- Felt Pads
Tools
- Planer
- Table Saw
- Clamps
- Coping Saw
- Nailer Gun
- Drill
- Palm Sander with 100, 180 and 220 grit
Steps
Collect scrap wood from previous projects. The more variety of wood you get, the better your end table will turn out to be.
Square wood pieces using a planer, and cut to random lengths using a table saw.
For the legs of the end table, it would be best to have it uniform, so get a nice-looking wood enough for the legs. Perhaps buying walnut wouldn’t hurt? 🙂
The corner legs that you see in this project came from a walnut that was divided into four equal squares.
Once you have prepared all the scrap wood and corner legs, it’s time to temporarily arrange the pieces in your work area to get an idea of how your end table would look. Your table will be built upside down, for now, so make sure to have a flat, level work area. And also, cover the area with newspaper.
To get the gluing started, prepare a frame that measures the size of your end table. The table shown here is 16×16 inches.
Once you have your square template, clamp (not glue) the corner legs to it. And then start creating the perimeter by gluing the wood pieces to fill the gaps between the legs, using the template as a guide to keep the edge straight.
Let the glue dry before proceeding to work on the interior. Start adding pieces to the perimeter working your way inward.
Don’t worry if there are some gaps on your table that cannot be filled with large square pieces. But do your best to keep gaps at a minimum. 🙂 Let the glue dry overnight and then flip the table to its right position. Peel off the protective paper and see which parts need to be filled with smaller wood pieces.
Use more scrap wood to fill in those gaps. The trick to easily inserting wood pieces at this point is to give them a slight taper with a bit of glue to act as a plug. Again, let the glue dry and then cut the plug ends using a coping saw.
Even though we try to make the table top-level and flat by building it upside down, you would still probably end up with a rough surface that a sander cannot correct.
You will have to use a router to make it even.
To do that, build a level edge for the router to float on. 
In this particular project, 24 inches was measured from the ground and then a square wooden frame was nailed to one side. It was repeated on the opposite side to create a level and parallel rails for the router to ride along.
Next, you will be needing a wooden board for the router to sit on that is long enough to reach the rails/frame that you have just nailed on the table. Drill an opening for the router bit, and drill more holes for the router collar to be screwed into. Countersink the screws so that they won’t get in the way as the router moves around…
Now you have an even surface!
Polish it even more with the use of a sander. Be mindful of the differences between your wood pieces. Some may be hardwood and some are light and soft, which means some may sand faster than others. Use different grits if needed, and don’t forget to sand the edges down.
Finish up your table with your chosen wood stain/finish.
Use felt pads to protect your floor and for easier moving.
Now you have a very stylish table to show everyone!
Thank you mikeasaurus for this idea!
Design Variations for Different Room Styles
When creating a wood scrap end table, the possibilities are endless in terms of design and adaptation to fit various room styles. You can tailor a wood scrap end table to beautifully complement your home decor by selecting appropriate wood types, finishes, and design elements.
Here’s how you can vary the design of a wood scrap end table to match different room aesthetics:
Coastal Vibes
For a coastal-inspired room, a wood scrap end table can be styled with light, weathered woods reminiscent of driftwood. Use a whitewash or light blue paint finish to mirror the breezy feel of the seaside. Adding glass or ceramic tiles on the tabletop can evoke the look of the ocean, making this end table a refreshing addition to any coastal-themed space.
Bohemian Artistry
In a bohemian setting, embrace the eclectic and artistic by combining various types and colors of wood scraps in your end table design. Integrate patterns or mosaic designs using different wood grains and stains. A wood scrap end table in a bohemian room can serve as a colorful, eye-catching piece that reflects a free-spirited and unconventional lifestyle.
Art Deco Elegance
For an Art Deco twist, design your wood scrap end table with geometric patterns and symmetrical shapes. Use contrasting woods or incorporate metallic paint touches like gold or silver leaf details to enhance the glamor. This style of end table fits well in spaces that celebrate the grandeur and opulence of the Art Deco era.
Farmhouse Fresh
Farmhouse-style decor benefits from the natural, unfinished textures of wood. A wood scrap end table for a farmhouse room should utilize reclaimed or barn wood with a visible grain and imperfections to add character. Keep the design simple and sturdy, perhaps with a lower shelf for additional storage or display, which is perfect for a warm, rustic farmhouse atmosphere.
Scandinavian Simplicity
Scandinavian design calls for functionality combined with clean, beautiful aesthetics. To align a wood scrap end table with Scandinavian decor, use light-colored woods such as beech or pine and keep the design simple and functional. A satin or semi-gloss finish will protect the wood while keeping the look bright and airy. This style of table works well in spaces that emphasize natural light, soft colors, and a clutter-free environment.
Advanced Woodworking Techniques
Creating a wood scrap end table offers a perfect opportunity to delve into advanced woodworking techniques that can transform simple pieces into standout furniture. These techniques not only enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your wood scrap end table but also allow you to hone your craftsmanship.
Here’s a look at some sophisticated woodworking methods you can apply to elevate your wood scrap end table.
Inlaying
Inlaying is a method of creating decorative patterns on your wood scrap end table by embedding different materials into the wood. You can use contrasting wood pieces, metals, or even glass to craft intricate designs. Start with simpler geometric patterns and as you gain confidence, move on to more complex floral or curvilinear designs. Inlaying not only adds visual interest but also increases the value and appeal of the end table.
Wood Burning
Wood burning, or pyrography, is a fantastic way to add personalized touches to your wood scrap end table. This technique involves using a heated pen to burn designs directly onto the wood surface. You can create custom artwork, patterns, or even inscriptions. When done carefully, wood burning brings a rustic charm and uniqueness to each piece, making your end table truly one-of-a-kind.
Carving Accents
Carving is another advanced technique that can significantly enhance the look of your wood scrap end table. Whether you choose to add subtle edge details or elaborate relief work, carving requires precision and patience. It allows for deep customization, from simple grooves and bevels to intricate scenes and motifs that can serve as the focal point of the design.
Joinery
Advanced joinery techniques can be utilized to improve the structural integrity and visual appeal of your wood scrap end table. Techniques like dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints not only provide stronger connections without the need for nails or screws but also give the table a more polished and professional look. Mastering these joinery techniques will also increase your skill level and confidence in tackling more complex projects.
Applying these advanced woodworking techniques will certainly elevate the craftsmanship of your wood scrap end table, turning what started as a simple project into a showcase of your woodworking skills. Each technique offers a way to add complexity and beauty to your work, ensuring that the end table not only serves its purpose but also acts as a conversation starter.
Conclusion
Building a wood scrap end table is not only a sustainable choice but also a creative outlet that allows for personal expression through various advanced woodworking techniques. Each table becomes a unique piece that enhances any room with its distinct style and character. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the satisfaction of transforming simple wood scraps into a functional and beautiful piece of furniture.
