Simple Square Bedside Table

Description

Simple square bedside table plans: a 24″ rustic side table from 2x4s and 2x2s

This is the build I point people to when they haven’t made a piece of furniture yet. It’s a rustic 24″ square bedside table with a slatted top and a slatted lower shelf, built from 2×4 studs and 2×2 furring strips for under $25 in lumber. Two board sizes, one pocket hole jig, five steps. If you can make a square cut and drive a pocket screw, you can build this one.

What you get

• Printable PDF plan, instant download
• Overall dimensions
• Cut list for all seven boards, with the waste marked
• 5 illustrated steps, from the top to final assembly
• Lumber list with board sizes and quantities

Specs

• Overall size: 24″ tall x 24″ wide x 24″ deep
• Storage: slatted top plus a full slatted lower shelf
• Skill level: True beginner
• Estimated lumber cost: under $25

Lumber you’ll need

• 4 boards, 2x2x8′ furring strips (legs, top frame and side rails)
• 3 boards, 2x4x8′ studs (top and shelf slats)

Hardware and supplies

• 2-1/2″ coarse pocket hole screws
• 2-1/2″ wood screws (base to top)
• Wood glue

Tools you’ll need

• Pocket hole jig (every joint is pocket screwed)
• Drill/driver
• Miter saw
• Tape measure and pencil
• Safety glasses and hearing protection

Common questions

Is this really a beginner project? Yes. It’s the on-ramp I recommend if you haven’t jumped into DIY furniture yet: square cuts, two board sizes and pocket holes. The top and the shelf are flat panels, the two sides are simple frames, and then it all screws together.

What lumber do I buy? 2×4 studs for the slats and 2×2 furring strips for the legs and frames.

Can I get a version with a drawer? Yes. My DIY bedside table is the level-up version with a full-extension drawer.

Want to see it first? The build is on the blog: DIY simple square bedside table. Pair it with a set of DIY floating shelves above it.