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In a bedroom, space is a luxury. Traditional nightstands can often feel bulky, taking up valuable floor space and making a small room feel even smaller. A floating side table DIY project is a modern solution that not only solves this problem but also adds a sleek, minimalist touch to your sleeping space. This versatile piece of furniture can serve as a stylish nightstand, a simple spot for your essentials, or a decorative display. Building your own floating side table is a great way to get a custom, high-end look without the high price tag. This guide will provide you with a straightforward, step-by-step plan for a successful floating side table DIY project, perfect for beginners and experienced builders alike.
A successful project begins with careful planning. Before you make a single cut, it's essential to plan the design, gather your materials, and prepare your tools. This initial phase of your floating side table is crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient building process.
You should take a few key measurements to ensure floating side table's functional and visually appealing.
Height: The surface of your floating side table should be at or slightly below the height of your mattress. This makes it easy to reach for a lamp, phone, or a glass of water without awkwardly leaning or stretching.
Width: The width should be appropriate for the size of your bed. For a twin bed, a narrower table is fine, while a king-sized bed can handle a wider, more substantial piece.
Depth: The depth should be just enough to hold your essentials without sticking out into the room too far. A depth of 10 to 14 inches is typically ideal for a floating side table.
By taking the time to get these key measurements right, your piece will be perfectly proportioned to your bed and your space (such as this piece), making it both a beautiful and highly functional piece of furniture.
Having all these material and tools ready will make your floating side table DIY project go smoothly:
Wood boards (Plywood is an excellent and affordable choice for a floating side table because it is strong and stable. You could also use a solid wood board, such as pine, for a natural wood grain look.)
Wood screws
Sand paper (in a few different grits)
Paint or stain
Polyurethane
Drill
Kreg Jig
Circular Saw or Miter Saw
Stud Finder
Electric Sander
In terms of material, I recommend using natural wood boards for your floating side table. The unique grain and texture of the wood bring an earthy, one-of-a-kind warmth to your space while keeping your floors clear.
With your plan and materials in place, it's time to start building your new bedside table. Follow these steps carefully for a great result on your floating side table DIY project.
Based on the dimensions you chose, you’ll need to cut the pieces for your floating side table. For a simple box design, you will need a top, a bottom, two side pieces, and a back panel. Take your time to measure each piece twice before cutting to ensure a perfect fit. Use your saw to make straight, clean cuts. The precision of your cuts will directly impact the final look and fit of your floating side table DIY.
With your pieces cut, you can now assemble the main body of your floating side table DIY. Start by applying a thin layer of wood glue to the edges you're joining. Secure the pieces with clamps. Drill small pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting, then drive in wood screws to create a strong joint. Use a square to check that every corner is at a perfect 90-degree angle before the glue dries completely. This step is crucial for a professional-looking floating side table.
This is where your floating side table DIY project truly starts to take shape. Start by using wood filler to fill in any screw holes or minor imperfections. Once dry, you can begin sanding the entire piece. Begin with a medium-grit sandpaper (like 120) to smooth out any rough spots. Follow up with a finer-grit paper (like 220) for a smooth, professional feel. Apply your chosen finish. If you’re staining, follow the directions on the can. If you’re painting, a layer of primer will help the paint go on smoothly. Finish with a clear topcoat to protect your floating side table from daily wear and tear.
You’ve done your floating side table DIY project! By following these steps, you can definitely create a custom wood floating side table that is not only beautiful and functional but also looks just as professional as this one.
Now, it’s time to hang your beautiful floating side table. To hang it, first determine its placement on the wall, aiming for it to be 2-6 inches higher than your mattress.
With Studs: Drill directly into the studs through the pre-drilled pocket holes. Use a level to ensure the nightstand is straight.
Without Studs: Mark the pocket hole locations on the wall. Pre-drill the wall and install drywall anchors rated to hold the nightstand's weight. Then, screw the nightstand into the anchors.
While the step-by-step instructions provide a clear roadmap for your project, a few insider tips can make the process even smoother and lead to a more professional-looking result. Keep these in mind as you work on your floating side table DIY project.
Pre-Drill Your Holes: Before driving any screws into your wood, it's always a good idea to drill a small pilot hole first. This simple step prevents the wood from splitting, especially when working close to the edge of a board.
Measure and Check: Double-checking your measurements before you cut the wood is the best way to avoid mistakes. A project that is not perfectly square from the start will only get more difficult to fix later. Use your square and tape measure religiously to ensure every piece of your floating side table is the exact size you need it to be.
Patience with Finishing: The secret to a professional look is in the details. Sand thoroughly and apply multiple thin coats of paint or stain for a smooth, durable finish.
Use a Template: For easy and precise installation, make a paper template of your table's back to mark the exact mounting locations on the wall.
To ensure your floating side table DIY project is a success, you should pay attention to these tips. They help you craft a piece that looks just as professional as this ready-made floating nightstand.
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about a floating side table diy project, from choosing materials to solving minor problems.
Plywood is a great material for building a simple nightstand. It is affordable, very strong, and stable. Pine is another excellent choice, especially if you want a natural wood look, as it is easy to work with and takes stain well.
The total cost will vary depending on the materials you choose. Using more expensive materials like hardwood can increase the cost.
To get the perfect natural wood tone, start by sanding the wood thoroughly. For a light, natural look, simply apply a clear, water-based polyurethane or a natural wood oil. For a specific shade, use a wood stain. Always test the stain on a scrap piece of wood first to ensure you get the perfect tone for your floating side table diy.
Small gaps in miter joints are very common. You can easily fix them by mixing some wood glue with fine sawdust from your project. Use this mixture to fill the gap, let it dry, and then sand it smooth. This creates a strong, nearly invisible repair that matches the surrounding wood.
If a stud is not available where you want to place your floating side table diy, you can use heavy-duty drywall anchors, also known as toggle bolts. These can hold a surprising amount of weight. However, for maximum safety and strength, a stud is always the best option.
Your bedroom is now a true reflection of modern style. The clean, floating design you've created with this floating side table diy project instantly adds a sense of calm and order, making the entire space feel more open and intentional. It's a small change with a big impact, proving that thoughtful design can elevate any room. Enjoy the simple beauty and convenience of your new floating side table diy as a key element in your beautifully curated space. If you’re looking for new ideas of building floating side tables, you can check out CountryLiving’s article.
