Building a bistro table is one of the easiest DIY projects you can take on if you’re a beginner level builder. It only takes a couple of tools and bonus: it’s made entirely from 2x4s. For only $15 and about an hour, you can make this cute little table, perfect for a patio or porch or even a small breakfast nook.
DIY $15 Bistro Table
Pieces – all cut from 2x4s:
- 6 pieces cut 22.5 inches long – for top
- 1 piece 20 inches long (ripped in half – so you get 2 pieces) – for cleats
- 2 pieces cut 34 inches long (ripped in half to make 4 legs) Cut both ends of each on a 30% angle.
- 1 piece cut 12 3/8 inches long (ripped in half – makes the center leg support – use second half below)
- 2 pieces cut 2 3/8 (from second half of the center leg support) – for blocks
- 10 scrap pieces of 1/4 inch cuts (to act as spacers)
Instructions:
First, sand down all of the cut pieces. If you have a wood planer, you can run the cut pieces through to knock off the uncut edge and smooth out the legs/center support.
Putting the spacers between each of the top pieces (the 20 inch long pieces) and clamp them together to keep it even.
Measuring in 5 inches from the edge, use the cleat pieces to put the top together. Predrill holes and use 2 1/2 inch wood screws to attach it to the bottom.
Next, attach one of the leg spacer blocks to the top of the leg. You’ll attach one directly to the cleat, then the other to the spacer. First attach the leg without the spacer. Attach the leg on each side to the cleat, then screw the leg brace between the two legs at 17 1/2 inches from the top of the table to make it center correctly.
Then attach the spacer to the other legs and attach the spacer to the cleat and the leg to the coordinating leg.
Make sure when you attach the legs, you do it on a level surface to be sure you have them sit properly. Paint the bistro table and you’re done!
If you like this 2×4 project, be sure to check out all of the others below!
Funky Junk Interiors says
February 28, 2016 at 7:23 pmLove it Gina! Once again, you make it look easy. Really beautiful design… love how beefy the top is. You rocked this 2×4 challenge! Thanks for organizing it!
Jillian says
February 28, 2016 at 7:30 pmSuch a versatile table! I think my back is calling for one of these. Thanks for all the work you put into this challenge.
Jillian says
February 28, 2016 at 7:30 pmMy deck is calling not my back LOL
Jes says
February 28, 2016 at 8:06 pmSo cute! Love the white with the turquoise chairs! Thanks for letting me be a part of this challenge!
Debbie @ Refresh Restyle says
February 28, 2016 at 9:57 pmLove your table! Thanks for putting this together!
Debbie
Janice says
February 29, 2016 at 3:14 pmBeautiful job, Gina! Will be pinning for later!
Leanne says
February 29, 2016 at 3:48 pmGirl this is awesome. What a great table that could be used in so many ways! Thanks for challenging us in this 2×4 challenge. It’s always fun to see how different all the projects end up!
Karen @ Dogs Don't Eat Pizza says
February 29, 2016 at 8:22 pmLove the table! And for $15, you can’t beat it! Thanks for organizing this challenge!
Sara says
March 1, 2016 at 6:35 pmGina, this is the perfect little table for the patio or back deck!! The colors are great too! Thanks for putting this together, it totally got my butt in gear to learn how to use to power tools! Thanks!
Crissie @ Sawdust to Sequins says
March 2, 2016 at 3:00 pmGina I love your 2X4 bistro table! This challenge was a blast to be a part of. Thanks for letting me play along!
JenWoodhouse.com says
March 4, 2016 at 2:40 pmLooks awesome! Thanks for hosting such a fun challenge Gina! <3
Charlotte says
June 13, 2016 at 9:37 pmGina, Where in the world did you find the adorable turquoise metal chairs that are in the Bistro Set picture?
Gina Luker says
July 13, 2016 at 2:03 pmI bought them at Kirklands last summer 🙂
vero says
June 24, 2016 at 1:31 pmThanks Gina, it’s so cute 🙂
Ariana says
September 1, 2016 at 10:14 amThank you , I now have a reason to use up some of those 2×4 scraps that are filling up my garage. You made it look so easy! Thank you for sharing this DIY challenge with us. xx Ari xx
Gina Luker says
September 1, 2016 at 1:58 pmYou go Ariana! I’m sure it’ll be awesome!
Beth says
September 12, 2016 at 8:09 amHow do I access the Free “Sources/Farmhouse Style”?? I signed up, but when I click on it, nothing happens.
thank you.
Beth
Gina Luker says
September 12, 2016 at 9:45 amHey Beth,
I’m not sure I understand what you are referring to? Was it my post about Farm house style, http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/farmhouse-decor-under-25.html ? Let me know, happy to help!
Michelle says
October 28, 2018 at 7:59 pmSuch great ideas! Thanks for sharing them!
Gina Luker says
October 29, 2018 at 11:00 amThanks so much Michelle!