DIY Brickmaker’s Coffee Table: A Step-by-Step How-To

Have you ever wanted a coffee table with that perfect mix of industrial and rustic style but didn’t want to pay designer prices? That’s exactly how I felt when I spotted the Restoration Hardware Brickmaker’s Coffee Table. So, I set out to create my own version, and I’m so excited to share the step-by-step tutorial with you!

white slipcovered sectional, oversize clock, board and batten wall, chandelier, large coffee table

If you’re into industrial-style furniture, you’ll love this project! It pairs beautifully with my DIY Industrial Wood and Metal Shelves, which you can also make on a budget. Together, they’re perfect for creating a cohesive and stylish living room.

DIY Brickmaker’s Coffee Table

brickmaker's table dimensions

Materials

  • 4 – 2″x6″x8′ pine
  • 2 – 2″x2″x8′ pine
  • 2 – 2″x2″x8′ pine
  • 1 – 2″x2″x4′ pine
  • 4 – 3/8″ plated hex bolts, 1 1/2″ long
  • 2” finishing nails
  • #8 flathead screws 2 1/2″ long
  • dark walnut stain
  • white paint
  • water
  • grey stain
  • Rustoleum Metallic Accents paint in rich brown (affiliate link)

Cut List

  • 8 – 2″x6″x45″ pine (table top)
  • 4 – 2″x2″x45″ pine (top and bottom of frame)
  • 4 – 2″x2″x42″ pine (top and bottom of frame)
  • 4 –  2″x2″x11″ pine (legs)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • pencil
  • compound miter saw
  • hammer
  • drill & drill bits
  • 7/8″ spade bit
  • paint brushes

Instructions

1. Once your materials are cut to size, build two squares from the 2″x2″x43″s and 2″x2″x45″s. Simply nail together with finishing nails and hammer. This will be the top and bottom of the “metal” frame.

top and bottom base

2. Add vertical pieces (legs) as shown below, also affixing with nails.

top and bottom with legs

3. Begin adding top pieces as shown, adding screws from bottom so they aren’t seen. Leave 1/8″ between each board.

adding top
adding top 2

4. To add hex bolts, after assembly pre-drill 1/8″ holes into tabletop’s side 12 1/2″ from end. Repeat at other end. Repeat for two holes on opposite side. This is to guide the larger holes. Using spade bit centered on 1/8″ holes, drill 1/2″ depth to sink hex bolt. Then using 3/8″ drill bit, pre-drill the bolt hole. See photo below.

hex bolts

Finishing Instructions

The finish on this table is what makes it extraordinary, in my opinion. The legs are painted to look like metal and the top is coated with several layers of stain and white/grey washes.

1. Paint base and legs with Rustoleum Metallic Accents paint in rich brown (affiliate link). Apply two coats if necessary. Let dry.

painted legs unfinished top

2. Dark stain the table top using the dark walnut. Let dry.

3. Apply a coat of grey stain. Let dry.

4. Mix about a tablespoon of white paint into about a 1/2 cup of water. Use this to white wash over the stained table top boards. Let dry. Repeat steps 2-4 if desired as I did a few times for many layers of stain/paint.

stain and whitewash
aka design living room

FAQs

Can I customize the size of this table?

Absolutely! Adjust the cut list to create a table that fits your space. Just make sure to keep the proportions balanced.

What type of wood should I use?

I used pine for this project because it’s affordable and easy to work with. However, you can choose hardwoods like oak for a sturdier option.

Do I need to seal the table?

Yes, sealing the table with a clear polyurethane or matte finish will protect the surface and ensure it lasts for years.

What’s the best way to clean the table?

A damp cloth is usually all you need. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.

diy brickmakers table in the living room

DIY Brickmaker's Coffee Table Tutorial

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Active Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Estimated Cost: $100 or less

Build your own DIY Brickmaker's Coffee Table with this step-by-step tutorial. Includes materials list, instructions, and finishing tips!

Materials

  • 4 – 2″x6″x8′ pine
  • 2 – 2″x2″x8′ pine
  • 1 – 2″x2″x4′ pine
  • 4 – 3/8″ plated hex bolts, 1 1/2″ long
  • 2” finishing nails
  • #8 flathead screws, 2 1/2″ long
  • Dark walnut stain
  • White paint
  • Grey stain
  • Rustoleum Metallic Accents paint in rich brown

Tools

  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Compound miter saw
  • Hammer
  • Drill & drill bits
  • 7/8″ spade bit
  • Paint brushes

Instructions

      Cut List:
      8 – 2″x6″x45″ pine (table top)
      4 – 2″x2″x45″ pine (top and bottom of frame)
      4 – 2″x2″x42″ pine (top and bottom of frame)
      4 – 2″x2″x11″ pine (legs)

    1. Build the Frame:
      Assemble two squares using the 2″x2″x42″ and 2″x2″x45″ pieces for the top and bottom of the frame. Secure the joints with finishing nails.
    2. Attach the Legs:
      Add the vertical leg pieces (2″x2″x11″) to the four corners of the frame. Nail them securely in place.
    3. Add the Top:
      Attach the 2″x6″ boards to form the table top. Use screws from the underside to avoid visible hardware. Leave about 1/8″ between each board for an authentic look.
    4. Install the Hex Bolts:
      Pre-drill 1/8″ guide holes for the hex bolts 12 1/2″ from the ends of the table on all four sides. Using a spade bit, drill a shallow 1/2″ hole to countersink the bolt heads, then drill the final hole for the bolts using a 3/8″ drill bit.
    5. Paint the Base:
      Use Rustoleum Metallic Accents paint in rich brown to paint the legs and frame. Apply two coats for a metal-like finish.
    6. Stain the Tabletop:
      Apply a dark walnut stain to the table top and let it dry thoroughly.
      Add a Grey Wash:
      Apply a coat of grey stain over the dark walnut for added depth. Let it dry.
    7. Create a Whitewashed Effect:
      Mix one tablespoon of white paint with half a cup of water. Brush it lightly over the tabletop for a weathered, rustic look. Repeat steps 2–4 until you achieve the desired finish.

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

And there you have it—your very own DIY Brickmaker’s Coffee Table! This piece adds so much character to a living room, and knowing it’s a budget-friendly DIY makes it even better. I’d love to see your finished project—drop a photo in the comments or tag me on social media!

After Blog Post Signature 2025 (350 x 125 px)

Want to see more content like this in your Google searches?

This button tells Google that Home Made Lovely is a source you like, so it can show you more of it.

add as a preferred source on Google in white in black background