Making a DIY bar or standing desk does not have to be complex. In this guide, we'll walk you through building your own bar or desk with a simple, yet elegant design based on the tutorial from 731 Woodworks on YouTube. Whether you're a beginner in woodworking or have some experience, this guide will be easy to follow and yield a beautiful result.
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Two by eight lumber (for legs and top)
- Wood glue
- Pocket hole screws
- Kreg Jig (or any pocket hole jig)
- Wood clamps
- Hand saw or power saw
- Sander and sandpaper
- Tape measure
- Wood router (optional for tabletop fasteners)
- Wood stain and pre-stain conditioner (optional)
- Varnish or polyurethane finish
Step by Step Instructions
Cutting and Preparing the Legs
- Cutting the Lumber: Begin by cutting your two by eights into three-foot sections. For the standing desk, adjust the length to suit the desired height.
- Laminating the Legs: Apply a liberal amount of wood glue on one side of the cut lumber and clamp two pieces together, making sure the edges are flush. Let it dry for a minimum of two hours, although overnight drying is recommended for a solid bond.
Assembling the Frame
- Cutting Frame Pieces: Cut additional two by eights to build the frame for your desk or bar. The length should match the desired width and depth of your finished product.
- Drilling Pocket Holes: Use a Kreg Jig to drill pocket holes on the ends of your frame pieces.
- Glue and Screw: Apply wood glue on the ends of your frame pieces, align them with the legs, and use pocket hole screws to secure them in place. Ensure everything is square as you proceed.
Preparing for the Top
- Notching for Tabletop Fasteners: If using tabletop fasteners (optional), notch out spaces in the frame using a wood router.
- Sanding: Sand the entire frame to at least 120 grit for a smooth finish.
Finishing the Frame
- Priming and Painting: Prime the frame with a quality wood primer, let it dry, and follow with your choice of paint. Two coats should provide a solid, even color.
Making the Top
- Cutting Lumber: Cut your remaining two by eights to length, making the top of your desk or bar. Allow a little extra length for final trimming.
- Joining the Pieces: Drill pocket holes along the edges of your boards, apply wood glue between each, and clamp them together. Once dry, trim the ends for a clean look.
- Sanding and Finishing: Sand the top to 120 grit, rounding the edges slightly for comfort. Apply a pre-stain conditioner, followed by your desired stain color. Finish with several coats of varnish or polyurethane for durability.
Attaching the Top
- Positioning: Place the top on your prepared frame, ensuring even overhangs on all sides.
- Securing: Use screws through the pocket holes in the frame or tabletop fasteners if you chose to notch for them. This allows the top to expand and contract with changes in humidity.
- Finishing Touches: Apply felt pads to the legs to protect floors and perform any last-minute touch-ups on the paint or stain.
Video Tutorial
For a step-by-step video tutorial, watch the detailed guide on 731 Woodworks YouTube Channel.
It pairs well with this written guide, delivering practical insights into each step discussed here in an engaging, visually clear manner.
Build your own DIY bar or standing desk for a satisfying project.
Discover 25 Creative DIY Bar Table Ideas for Your Home
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5. Outdoor Bar Table With Storage
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6. DIY 2×4 Outdoor Bar Table
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9. Build a Wooden Bar Table
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10. LED High Top Bar Table
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12. Homemade Concrete and Iron Bar Table
Combining concrete and iron in a homemade bar table offers an industrial, yet sophisticated look. The iron frame provides sturdy support, while the concrete top is durable and easy to clean, suiting both indoor and outdoor settings.
13. Bar Height Round Pub Table
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14. DIY Pallet Wood Bar Table
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15. Bar Table With Cinder Blocks and a Pallet
Embrace the industrial chic look with a bar table constructed from cinder blocks and a pallet. This sturdy and cost-effective design brings an edgy, minimalist style to your space, perfect for those appreciating a raw, textural aesthetic. Easy to assemble, it offers both functionality and visual appeal.
16. Easy Horseshoe Bar Table
For equestrian enthusiasts or those aiming for a farmhouse vibe, the horseshoe bar table is a whimsical yet practical choice. Its unique base, crafted from horseshoes, not only serves as a stable foundation but also adds a distinctive countryside charm to any room.
17. DIY Coffee Bar Table
Starting the day with a perfectly organized coffee bar table can elevate your morning routine. This DIY project allows you to customize storage for your coffee essentials, turning a simple coffee break into a luxurious ritual. Its compact design fits snugly in any kitchen corner.
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19. Make a Balcony Bar Table
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20. Live Edge Slab Bar Top Table Design
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23. X Sofa Bar Table From Scrap Wood
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Conclusion:
In conclusion, DIY bar tables are a versatile and stylish addition to any home. The satisfaction of making your own piece of furniture tailored to your taste and space is unmatched. From rustic to modern designs, there are endless possibilities to unleash your creativity and elevate your home decor. Explore the world of DIY bar tables today and transform your living space with a touch of personal flair.