Craft Your Own: DIY End Table with Drawer Plans
Elevate your living space with a personalized touch by building your own DIY end table with a drawer. Not only is this project budget-friendly, but it also allows you to express your creativity and add a unique piece to your home. Here's a comprehensive guide with step-by-step plans to help you create the perfect end table for your space.
Materials Needed
- 2x4 lumber (for the legs and aprons)
- 1x6 lumber (for the top and drawer front)
- 1x8 lumber (for the drawer sides and back)
- 1/4" and 1/2" plywood (for the drawer bottom and shelf)
- Wood glue
- 1-1/4" and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws
- 1-1/4" brad nails
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
- Paint or stain (your choice of finish)
- Hardware (drawer pull, hinges, and screws)
Tools Required
- Miter saw or circular saw
- Drill driver
- Pocket hole jig
- Nail gun (optional)
- Clamps
- Tape measure
- Safety glasses
- Dust mask
Step-by-Step DIY End Table with Drawer Plans
1. Cut List
Before you begin, measure and cut all your pieces according to the following list:
| Piece | Quantity | Dimension |
|---|---|---|
| Legs | 4 | 2x4 @ 16" long |
| Aprons | 4 | 2x4 @ 12" long |
| Table top | 1 | 1x6 @ 18" long |
| Drawer front | 1 | 1x6 @ 12" long |
| Drawer sides | 2 | 1x8 @ 10" long |
| Drawer back | 1 | 1x8 @ 11.5" long |
| Drawer bottom | 1 | 1/4" plywood @ 10.5" x 11.5" |
| Shelf | 1 | 1/2" plywood @ 10.5" x 11.5" |
2. Assemble the Legs and Aprons
Using your pocket hole jig, create pocket holes on the inside of two of the apron pieces. Attach these aprons to the legs using 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, creating an 'H' shape. Ensure the legs are 16" apart and the aprons are 12" apart.

3. Attach the Table Top
Lay the table top piece across the assembled legs and aprons. Use wood glue and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws to attach the top to the aprons. Make sure the top overhangs the legs by about 1/2".
4. Build the Drawer
Attach the drawer sides to the drawer back using wood glue and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Create pocket holes on the inside of the drawer front and attach it to the drawer sides and back using 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Add the drawer bottom, securing it with wood glue and brad nails.
5. Add the Drawer Pull and Hinges
Measure and mark the center of the drawer front for the pull. Attach the drawer pull according to the manufacturer's instructions. Install the hinges on the inside of the table top, aligning them with the top of the drawer.

6. Add a Shelf
If desired, create a shelf by attaching the 1/2" plywood piece to the inside of the aprons using wood glue and brad nails. This will provide additional storage space for your end table.
7. Sand and Finish
Sand the entire end table using 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 220-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler, sand smooth, and wipe clean. Apply your chosen paint or stain, allowing it to dry completely between coats.
8. Enjoy Your New End Table
Place your new DIY end table with a drawer in your desired location, and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you created it yourself. This versatile piece can be used in various rooms, from the living room to the bedroom, adding both functionality and style to your space.