Cost: $
Time: 4 hours
Skill: 1 of 5 — Beginner

DIY Cocktail Side Table Plan

A versatile DIY outdoor side table that fits just about any outdoor space

Whether it’s holding a cold drink, your favorite book or a plate fresh off the grill, this DIY cocktail side table is a practical addition to patios, porches and backyard seating areas. Its clean, timeless design pairs well with a variety of outdoor furniture, making it an easy project to build once — or several times — for a matching set.

Before you get started, please read our info on safety, fasteners and building tips, and please consult our Terms of Use.

Get The Plan

What you’ll need for a cocktail side table

Materials

(1) 1 x 8 x 8′ YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine boards
(1) 2 x 4 x 4′ YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine lumber
(4) exterior-grade 1 1/2″ L brackets and screws
Exterior-grade panhead screws (suitable for pocket-hole joinery)
(4) nylon glides
Waterproof wood glue
YellaWood Protector® Stain and Sealer

Cutlist

A. (5) 3/4 x 2 x 11 1/2″
B. (2) 3/4 x 3 1/4 x 18″
C. (2) 3/4 x 3 1/4 x 11 1/2″
D. (4) 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 17 1/4″
E. (4) 3/4 x 2 x 13 1/4″

Tools

Table saw
Miter, hand, or circular saw
Pocket hole jig with bit
Driver
Drill bit
24″ bar clamps
Hammer
Damp rag to wipe up excess glue

Step-by-step instructions on how to build a outdoor side table

The table is assembled using pocket-hole joinery and waterproof exterior glue for strong, concealed connections that keep the focus on the finished piece. Slatted top boards allow for water drainage, and this DIY patio side table can be easily adapted into a larger coffee table or picnic table if your space calls for something bigger.