This post will show you how I built a DIY console table that was inspired by the Pottery Barn Folsom table!
I searched high and low for a console table to go under the mounted TV in my primary bedroom. The perfect table for my space was one with an open rectangular shape with a medium brown stain, no bigger than 70″ W x 35″ H x 8″ D. The closest thing I found was the 52″ Folsom from Pottery Barn. It checked the box for the open rectangle shape but struck out with the stain color and dimensions.
Therefore, I decided to make the console table myself. I already had the power tools required, so I took measurements and purchased the other materials from my local hardware store for a total of around $2154.
Materials & Tools Used
Wood
- (6) 1x8x6 boards
- (6) 1x2x6 boards
Tools & Materials
- Miter saw
- Power drill/driver
- Handheld sander
- Sanding pads (80, 100, 120, 220 grits)
- Screwdriver
- 2″ wood screws
- Stain brush (or a clean, lint-free cloth)
- Pre-stain wood conditioner
- Wood stain
- Stainable wood filler
- Wood glue
- Polyurethane sealer
- Sponge applicator
- Leveler tool
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Speed square
- Safety glasses
I knew I wanted the console table to have a waterfall effect, just like the Folsom. So, that means I needed to construct a larger outer frame and a smaller inner frame, then add 1 x 2s as front and back faces to give the illusion of four thick pieces of wood mitered at a 45º angle.
Here’s my cut list:
Outer retangular frame:
- 1 x 8 cut to 70″ (2 pieces)
- I cut 2″ off of 2 of the 1 x 8 boards
- 1 x 8 cut to 33.5″ (2 pieces)
- I got both cuts from 1 board
Inner rectangular frame:
- 1 x 8 cut to 64.5″ (2 pieces)
- I cut 7.5″ off of 2 of the 1 x 8 boards
- 1 x 8 cut to 29″ (2 pieces)
- I got both cuts from 1 board
Front and back faces:
- 1 x 2 cut to 70″ at a 45º angle (4 pieces)
- I cut 2″ off of 4 boards
- 1 x 2 cut to 33.5″ at a 45º angle (2 pieces)
- I used 2 boards to get the 4 cuts
Console Table Assembly
Once all the pieces were cut to size, I began the assembly, which was probably the easiest part of the whole process.
First, I assembled the larger outer frame. I used a drill to make pilot holes before adding wood glue to the joints and screwing in the 2″ wood screws for added reinforcement.
Next, I assembled the smaller inner frame, using the same technique. I placed the inner frame inside of the outer frame to make sure my measurements lined up. There should only be 1.5″ of space around the box, which is where the 1 x 2’s come in.
Tip: if you didn’t know, the nominal measurement of a piece of lumber is not equal to the actual measurement. For instance, 1 x 2 boards actually measure .75″ x 1.5″ after processing, not 1″ x 2″). Keep this in mind when you’re doing your calculations and measurements for your projects.
With the verification of measurements completed, I added wood glue to the top of the frame and then placed the 1 x 2’s across the front of the piece. I followed up with the 2″ wood screws for added security.
Once the piece dried a bit, I flipped it to the back and followed the same process. Et voila! The table is built!
Stain Prep
Next, I filled in all the screw holes with wood filler, and then carefully sanded the piece down.
I started with 80-grit sanding sheets to remove any uneven and rough areas, then made my way up the grits to ensure a smooth surface for staining. I applied a pre-stain wood conditioner and allowed this to dry for several hours.
Stain
Finally, the console table was ready for stain!
I started by applying a pre-stain wood conditioner with a sponge applicator, and let that dry for about an hour. 
Next, I applied a Varathane stain in the color Early American and wiped off the excess. Once this dried for 24 hours, I took it out to my garage and applied one even layer of Varathane’s Triple Thick Polyurethane in a clear satin finish to seal and protect the piece.
After it dried, I placed it in my bedroom under the mounted TV and I could not be happier!
This post was all about my step-by-step instructions for making a DIY console table (you could also use this as an entry table). How’d I do? Let me know what you think in the comments below!