Farm tables are those warm, rustic surfaces that draw inspiration from the original harvest tables found in American homes of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Rather than being built by skilled and trained artisans, farm tables were assembled from large, rough wooden fir planks. Their construction valued sturdiness and utility over detail and refinery.
Today, farm tables can bring a sense of antique charm to any home, complementing matched chairs and contemporary benches alike. Here are five farm tables you can build yourself.
Photo: Domestic Imperfection
This table and bench by Ashley, Adam, and Keith of Domestic Imperfection is most representative of the style, featuring solid breadboard ends and a warm, rich stain. Created using dimensional lumber readily available from the home center, the appealingly stout table still fits in an average-size dining room.
Photo: East Coast Creative
Similar to the previous example, though designed and built on a large scale, is a farm table from East Coast Creative, which includes some intentional distressing to enhance the antique look. The table top attaches to an existing base, making it possible to build this project in a single weekend.
Photo: American Woodworker
This project from American Woodworker opts for turned table legs and aprons that result in a more refined, traditional look. (If I were building a farm table, this would be my choice of design.)
Photo: Our Vintage Home Love
If all that dark wood is too heavy for your space, take a tip from Our Vintage Home Love and go for a painted base with a new, wide-planked top.
Photo: Creature Comforts
Last is the least woodworking-intensive farm table, courtesy of Ez at Creature Comforts. Built from pre-cut 2 x 8 boards and IKEA legs, this smaller version is ideal for apartment dwellers or others with small spaces, to place in a breakfast nook or use as a kitchen table.
For more DIY projects, consider:
5 “Make in a Weekend” DIY Bookshelf Projects
9 DIY Headboard Projects to Suit Any Bedroom
6 DIY Standing Desk Projects to Keep You Healthy While You Work