How to Build Child-Sized Table and Stools

Materials and Tools:

3/4" pine panels
wood glue
clamps
foam brush
circular saw
1x3, 1x8 and 1x12 lumber
decorative trim
pocket screw jig
screws
drill
220-grit sandpaper
wood filler

Steps:

1. Spread wood glue over the surface of one panel and place another one on top so the edges are lined up. Use clamps to hold them together to dry overnight. Remove the clamps.

2. Use a circular saw to cut the tabletop to the desired length. Save the scrap piece for later.

3. Cut 1x3s to length to create a frame for the tabletop. Use wood glue and clamps to secure the pieces in place. Let dry overnight and remove the clamps.

4. Use a pocket screw jig to drill pilot holes from the tabletop into the 1x3s, creating a "pocket" for a screw. Use the tool again to drill two holes in the corners to secure the 1x3s to each other. Screw the pieces together to complete the top.

5. Cut the scrap piece into two legs and two cross supports. Secure the cross supports to the bottom of the tabletop using wood glue and screws (drill four pilot holes first). Secure the legs to the cross supports in the same manner. Cut two feet from the remaining scrap piece and secure them to the bottom of the legs using wood glue and screws.

6. If desired, add two shelves cut from a 1x12 between the legs and support it with two dividers. Cover the raw shelf edges with decorative trim.

7. For the stools, cut a 1x12 for the top and 1x8s for the sides, bottom and apron. Secure all the pieces together using wood glue and screws. Add decorative trim as desired to finish it.

8. Sand all the edges smooth, fill any holes with wood filler and paint or stain as desired.