3 Easy DIY Furniture Projects from Ted’s Woodworking to Try This Weekend
Woodworking doesn’t have to mean massive sheds, complicated cabinetry, or years of skill. With the right plans, even beginners can create beautiful and useful furniture in just a weekend. That’s where Ted’s Woodworking Plans shine.
Ted’s collection of 16,000+ step-by-step blueprints covers everything from birdhouses to dining sets, but what makes it so practical is the wide range of easy furniture projects that you can realistically complete in a few hours or days.
👉 Want access to all 16,000+ projects? Get Ted’s Woodworking Plans Here.
Why Weekend Projects Are Perfect for Beginners
Many people get stuck at the idea stage. They want to build, but the projects they find online either:
- Require advanced tools they don’t have.
- Take weeks to finish.
- Lack clear instructions.
That’s frustrating, and often the reason beginners give up. Weekend-friendly projects solve that problem because they’re:
- Time-efficient – Can be finished in 1–2 days.
- Affordable – Require minimal lumber and hardware.
- Beginner-friendly – Teach essential skills without being overwhelming.
- Rewarding – You see fast results, which boosts confidence.
With that in mind, let’s dive into three projects from Ted’s Woodworking that you can build this weekend.
Project 1: Rustic End Table
An end table (sometimes called a side table) is one of the easiest furniture builds you can tackle. It’s small, practical, and instantly adds character to a living room or bedroom.
Materials:
- 4 table legs (16–20 inches each, cut from 2x2s or 4x4s)
- 2 apron boards (18”)
- 2 apron boards (12”)
- 1 tabletop piece (about 20” x 14”)
- Wood screws (2”)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper, stain, and finish
Tools:
- Saw (circular or hand saw)
- Drill
- Screwdriver or driver bit
- Sander
Steps (Simplified from Ted’s Plans):
- Cut the wood – Legs, aprons, and tabletop.
- Assemble the frame – Join apron boards into a rectangle, glue, and screw.
- Attach the legs – Secure legs at each corner with screws.
- Add the tabletop – Center the tabletop on the frame and screw from below.
- Sand and finish – Smooth with 120–220 grit, then stain or paint as desired.
Time & Cost:
- Build time: 3–4 hours
- Cost: $40–$70
✅ Why it’s great: It teaches you essential furniture-building skills like apron joints and leg attachments while giving you a piece of furniture you’ll actually use.
👉 Want access to all 16,000+ projects? Get Ted’s Woodworking Plans Here.
Project 2: Simple Bookshelf
Bookshelves are not only functional — they’re also one of the most customizable DIY projects. Ted’s Woodworking Plans include dozens of bookshelf variations, but the simplest design can be completed over a weekend.
Materials:
- 2 side panels (36” tall, 12” wide)
- 3–4 shelves (24” long, 12” wide)
- Back panel (optional plywood sheet)
- Screws and wood glue
- Sandpaper, stain, or paint
Tools:
- Saw
- Drill
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
Steps:
- Cut panels and shelves – Measure carefully for uniformity.
- Drill pilot holes – Mark shelf positions on side panels.
- Assemble sides and shelves – Glue and screw shelves in place.
- Optional back panel – Attach plywood backing for stability.
- Sand and finish – Apply paint or stain for a polished look.
Time & Cost:
- Build time: 5–6 hours
- Cost: $50–$100
✅ Why it’s great: The bookshelf project helps you practice alignment and measurement accuracy. Once you’ve built one, scaling up for taller or wider versions is simple.
🛠️ Ted’s 16,000 Woodworking Plans – Why You’ll Love It:
- 📚 16,000+ Ready-to-Build Projects – From small crafts to big furniture!
- ✂️ Step-by-Step Instructions – No guesswork, just follow and build.
- 🧰 Perfect for All Levels – Beginner to expert, everyone’s covered.
- 💰 Turn Projects into Profit – Build & sell your creations easily!
- 🔥 Limited-Time Deal – Grab it now at 90% OFF!
Project 3: Outdoor Bench
If you want a weekend project that combines simplicity with high impact, go for an outdoor bench. It’s versatile, functional, and a great introduction to larger builds.
Materials:
- 2 side supports (18–20” tall, cut from 2x4s)
- 1 seat board (48” x 12”)
- 2 cross supports (12”)
- Screws (2 ½”)
- Wood glue
- Outdoor wood sealant or weatherproof paint
Tools:
- Saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver/driver bit
- Sander
Steps:
- Build the frame – Secure cross supports between the side panels.
- Add the seat board – Center and secure with screws from above.
- Reinforce joints – Add glue and double-check for wobbling.
- Sand edges – Round off corners for comfort.
- Weatherproof – Apply outdoor sealant or paint for durability.
Time & Cost:
- Build time: 4–5 hours
- Cost: $60–$100
✅ Why it’s great: The outdoor bench introduces sturdier construction techniques while still being manageable for beginners. Plus, it adds immediate value to your backyard, porch, or garden.
👉 Want access to all 16,000+ projects? Get Ted’s Woodworking Plans Here.
Tips for Success (from Ted’s Woodworking)
Even the easiest projects can trip up beginners if you rush. Here are a few expert tips included in Ted’s Woodworking Plans:
- Measure twice, cut once – A single wrong cut can throw off your project.
- Pre-drill holes – Prevents wood from splitting.
- Use clamps – Keeps joints square and stable while screwing.
- Sand between steps – Don’t wait until the very end.
- Finish properly – Stain or paint not only looks better but also protects the wood.
Following these tips makes the difference between a rough DIY project and something that looks like professional furniture.
How Ted’s Woodworking Makes Weekend Projects Easier
Yes, you could find free plans online — but they often lack details, diagrams, or proper measurements. That’s where Ted’s Woodworking stands out:
- Complete blueprints – Every project has diagrams, measurements, and instructions.
- Materials lists – You’ll know exactly what to buy before starting.
- Skill progression – Projects range from ultra-beginner to advanced, letting you improve steadily.
- Customization – Easy to adjust dimensions to fit your space.
- Huge variety – 16,000+ plans means you’ll never run out of weekend project ideas.
For beginners, that level of clarity prevents mistakes, wasted wood, and frustration. For more experienced woodworkers, it saves time and provides inspiration for new builds.
Which Project Should You Start With?
- If you want something fast and functional, start with the rustic end table.
- If you need more storage and want to practice precision, try the bookshelf.
- If you want something for your outdoor space, go for the bench.
Whichever project you choose, you’ll gain skills, confidence, and a finished piece of furniture you can proudly show off.
👉 Want access to all 16,000+ projects? Get Ted’s Woodworking Plans Here.
The Bottom Line
Woodworking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right plan, a handful of tools, and a weekend of effort, you can build furniture that lasts for years.
Ted’s Woodworking provides the step-by-step instructions and blueprints that make projects like these beginner-friendly and enjoyable. The three projects we covered — an end table, a bookshelf, and an outdoor bench — are just a taste of what’s possible with Ted’s 16,000+ plans.
Whether you’re looking to save money, build a hobby, or furnish your home with custom pieces, Ted’s Woodworking is one of the most valuable resources for DIY woodworkers in 2025.
👉 Want access to all 16,000+ projects? Get Ted’s Woodworking Plans Here.
