Before getting started, consider where your sofa table will go and how you plan to use it. Next, measure the height and length of your sofa. The table should be the same height as the back of the couch or shorter. While most consoles have at least six inches of space on each side, yours can run the sofa's length to maximize storage. Depending on its location, the tabletop can measure from 6 to 15-inches wide.

Now that you have your measurements, it's time to decide on the style of your custom table. Did you score a few lengths of reclaimed wood? Try creating a rustic design with warm, natural wood tones and metal corner guards. Are you interested in a contemporary, streamlined silhouette? Use pocket holes to hide hardware, and brush a dark wood stain over your design. If there's a need to incorporate storage, add a glass shelf or woven baskets. The possible combinations of materials and textures are endless.

Building this DIY sofa table requires basic tools like a tape measure, a hand or miter saw, clamps, a drill, a palm sander, and a level. You'll also need the lumber, which some hardware stores can cut for you for a nominal fee. Other materials include wood screws, sandpaper, wood putty, wood glue, wood stain, and a sealant. If you want to hide your hardware, get a pocket hole jig and some 3/8" wood dowels.

Here's the lumber required for this narrow table design: eight 2"x2" furring strips and one 2"x6" stud cut to the length of the table. If you want more surface area, you can opt for a 2"x8", a 2"x10", or a 2"x12" piece of wood. You'll also need six furring strips cut to the height of the table; these will be the legs. Six pieces cut to the width of your tabletop will provide support as the stretchers. Finally, cut four furring strips to the length of the table, then divide them in half to create eight equal-length rails.

Build the structure of your table by connecting the legs to the side rails.

Carefully flip the table upside down to connect the remaining four stretchers to the opposite ends of each leg. Use clamps to steady the structure as you work, and don't forget to wipe any excess wood glue that squeezes out from the joints as you tighten the screws. Your table should resemble a hollow rectangular box with support rails in the center. Allow the wood glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Your design aesthetic will lead the way on this next vital step: prepping the table's surface.

Don't forget those personal touches that add function to your space while updating your decor. Need more storage? Use the bottom rails as the base for a low shelf or a platform for oversized baskets. Is your sofa blocking a power outlet on the wall? Cut an opening in the tabletop and affix a USB port underneath for each access.

Your DIY sofa table is ready for use! Check you out!