Here’s How You Can Make This Super Customizable DIY Farmhouse Table

Here at Family Handyman, DIY is in our blood. From dreamy headboards to innovative kitchen islands to classic raised garden beds, we’re here for all your ingenious furniture hacks. Today, it’s time to highlight a gorgeous farmhouse table from DIY influencer Abbey (@casacrank). This table blew us away with its simplicity and elegance. Even better, it’s totally customizable based on your space and the size of your family. Check out her video for yourself below.

@casacrank DIY DINING TABLE What do you think? Full details on my insta #diyhomedecor #HomeDecorProjects #DIYHomeProjects #HomeDIYIdeas #diytable #diydiningtable #HomeFurnitureInspo #diyidea #HomeDIY #budgethomediy #budgetdiydecor #diningtableideas #diningtableinspo ♬ original sound – Sarah New

How to DIY a Farmhouse Table

In the video, Abbey shows her inspiration: a table and seating bench reminiscent of an upscale picnic table. The set she shows retails for over 1,400 pounds (about $1,800 USD). Abbey manages to make it for a fraction of the price, utilizing some basic lumber and a set of black metal table and bench legs, which cost just 60 and 90 pounds, respectively ($74 and $111 USD). Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own DIY farmhouse table and bench.

What You’ll Need

The most important part of building this table and bench is the lumber. In the video, Abbey’s lumber appears to be untreated and about 2 inches thick, 1 foot wide and 6 feet long. Keep the thickness for that rustic look, but adjust the length and width for your space. Just make sure all six pieces are identical so your lines match up.

Materials

• 6 pieces 2-by lumber in desired width and length
• 2 (28-inch-tall) X-shaped metal table legs
• 2 (16-inch-tall) X-shaped metal bench legs
• Varnish and stain of choice
• 3 support beams (or more, if a longer table)
• Screws

Tools

• Sandpaper
• Varnish brush
• Tarp
• Tape measure
• Spare lumber for stabilizing
• Wood glue (optional)
• Clamps (optional)
• Level
• Power drill (also known as a drill driver)

Directions

1. First things first, lay out four pieces of lumber parallel to each other and then another two. These will be your table and bench dimensions, so make sure they are to your liking. If needed, trim down with a table saw.
2. Though Abbey does not do this in the video, I would suggest sanding down the lumber, especially the edges, to prep it for varnishing and assure that no one gets splinters.
3. Using the brush and tarp, cover the lumber with stain and varnish. This may take multiple coats over the course of multiple days to get the effect you want.
4. Once your lumber is fully prepped and dry, line and level it up on the ground using your tape measure, spare lumber and level. Again, the lumber should be separated into 4 pieces for the table and 2 pieces for the bench.
5. If you would like some extra stabilization for your table, this would be a lovely time to apply a light layer of wood glue on the edges of the lumber and use clamps to hold the pieces together while it dries. Abbey does not do this in the video, which results in a more rustic look, but if you’re looking for the best durability, try this.
6. Next, it’s time to attach the legs and stabilizing beams. Abbey attaches the table and bench legs first, then the stabilizing beams, but I would probably do the reverse: attach the stabilizing beams with screws, distributing them evenly within the space between where the legs will attach, and then screw on the legs. This is because the stabilizing beams can help secure the shakiest part of the table/bench (the middle) first, leading to more secure and accurately measured legs. This should help keep the table level, though it will require a little more planning on your part.
7. Once you’ve screwed on the stabilizing beams and legs, you’re done! Simply turn your new farmhouse table upright, and celebrate your accomplishment with a delicious christening meal.