Build a Cozy Breakfast Spot with DIY Farmhouse Kitchen Table
Tired of an empty, unused corner in your kitchen? Transform it into a cozy breakfast nook with a DIY farmhouse table! Farmhouse style is perfect for corner breakfast spots with its rustic, vintage charm. Read on to learn how to build your own farmhouse table and corner bench or nook for family meals and coffee catch-ups.
A homemade farmhouse table is a great beginner woodworking project. With some basic tools and materials, you can create a beautiful focal point for your kitchen. Let's look at what you need to gather before starting this easy DIY dining table.
Gather Supplies for Your Farmhouse Table
Wood
Pine, oak, or maple are typical wood types used for farmhouse tables. Choose boards that are 36-42 inches wide and long enough for your desired finished table length. Distressed wood has an antique, weathered look but you can also sand and stain smooth wood for a polished farmhouse vibe.
Hardware
Turned table legs complement the farmhouse aesthetic. Tapered legs also work. Along with wood glue, you'll need fasteners like screws or nails. If not using a distressed wood finish, grab paint or stain supplies.
Tools Needed
You'll need basic woodworking tools:
- Miter saw for cutting wood pieces to size
- Drill for driving screws and pocket holes
- Sandpaper in varying grits
- Wood planer or belt sander for smoothing wood
Build the Farmhouse Table Base
Start with constructing the table base since it needs to support the heavy tabletop. Cut apron pieces for all sides from 1x4 or 1x6 boards. Cut legs to desired height based on apron width. Attach using wood glue and screws or nails. Use pocket holes for a clean interior look.
Sand the base smooth, rounding edges slightly. You can stop here for a simple farmhouse style or add details like skirting along the bottom aprons and decorative corbels between legs. Stain, paint, or finish the base as desired.
Add the Tabletop
Choose Tabletop Boards
The width of individual tabletop boards impacts the look. Narrow 3-5 inch planks have a more rustic vibe. For a smoother finish, use wider boards up to 12 inches across. Edge join boards with wood glue and biscuits or pocket holes. Allow proper drying time before attaching the tabletop to its base.
Finish the Tabletop
Sand the joined boards until smooth. For a distressed appearance, manually scrape and chip some areas after staining. Or apply white paint and sand back some of the wood grain. Use polyurethane for protection and sheen.
Center the tabletop over the base. Attach using screws from underneath or hidden pocket holes. Add corner blocks or an apron underneath for extra support if needed.
Create Corner Breakfast Nook
Now your farmhouse table is ready to tuck into a cozy kitchen breakfast nook! Built-in banquette seating is great, but you can also use a freestanding bench. Add charming curtains, an area rug, and vintage-inspired accessories to complete the farmhouse charm.
Angle the table diagonally in the corner and place the bench on one side. Or if space allows, use two smaller benches on each side for lots of seating. Add pillows to make the nook extra comfy and inviting.
Your homemade farmhouse table and corner breakfast nook make a wonderful gathering place for family and friends. Set the table with lavish farmhouse linens, dishes, and fresh flowers for special weekend brunches. During the week, it's perfect for school projects, paying bills, or letting the kids play a game.
Be sure to properly care for your DIY farmhouse table. Use coasters under hot dishes to prevent water marks, and immediately clean any spills. Reapply polyurethane or oil every year or so to maintain the wood and protect your handcrafted table for years of breakfast nook memories.