Rustic Cottagecore End Table Final Report Part 1

For my main project I made an end table for my couch with a folding leaf extension in the rustic cottage core aesthetic. I chose this aesthetic because I really enjoy it and it matches my current living room decor. I also knew I wanted to use wood to create this end table due to cost, tools, and skill restraints. I knew I wanted to make the table somewhat decorative by adding brass hardware and painting designs on the wood. I painted vines, leaves, and flowers on the wood to add to the cottagecore aesthetic. I also stained the wood a warm color that still shows the natural grain, and sealed the wood with a clear protective layer to ensure it lasts and will not be damaged with use. 

I knew I wanted to make an end table, and began brainstorming how I could implement a dynamic aspect. I began to think of an extension for the table top. I came up with the idea for the hinged extension attached to the table top. After doing some research, I found that tables like this do already exist. I knew I still wanted to make it my own, but I was particularly inspired by the Pottery Barn Allen Rectangular Extending C-Table hinge mechanism. 

I then began sketching some initial ideas for the table. I planned for my table to be compatible with the living room furniture I currently own. I measured the dimensions of my couch to determine the appropriate dimensions for my end table. From these measurements, I decided that my end table would be approximately 26 in tall. The table top would be 10in X 12in, and fold out to 20in X 12in.

Once I settled on a general form factor, I used SolidWorks to determine measurements and figure out the interfaces and hardware locations. I have lots of experience with SolidWorks so this was easy and enjoyable for me. 

 

As I began to see my vision come to life, I considered the specifications I wished for my table to meet, and the constraints that may cause roadblocks along the way. The specifications I determined are as follows.

1. The table should be compatible with my couch and slide to be flush with the front edge of the couch. (~26 inches in height)
2. The table should have a functional leaf that will fold out and be attached with a piano hinge. (10x12in tabletop will fold out to 20x12in)
3. The tabletop and frame will be made of wood that will be a warm color
4. The edges of the wood will be sanded to be soft and smooth
5. The wood will have flowers painted on it

I determined that meeting at least 4 of the 5 specifications listed above would make this project a success for me. 

 

The major constraints I was concerned with for this project are as follows: 

1. Money- cost of materials, purchasing extra parts in case of mistakes
2. Supplies- access to woodshop tools and assembly tools (drills, fasteners, etc)
3. Time- may not have time to redo components and fix mistakes
4. Skills- minimal woodworking skills
5. Room- sufficient work space, not sufficient storage space

 

Once I finalized my design and considered the specifications and constraints of the project, I began gathering materials and determining my manufacturing plan. I purchased pressure treated redwood, and I cut it to size. I then ensured everything would fit as intended. The wood was all 2in thick, which was too thick for my original plans for the leaf extension using a piano hinge, so I eventually had to switch out what wood I used for the table top to something thinner and lighter. I prepped the wood and sanded it to eliminate rough edges and splintering. I then stained the table top white to intentionally contrast the redwood, because I now had two different types of wood. 

I painted detailed flowers on various parts of the wooden frame. This was the most time consuming part of the project, but also the most enjoyable. I am happy with how the flowers turned out. All wood was also covered with a clear polyurethane seal for protection. 

I struggled a bit with assembly. It turns out the wood I purchased is very dense and was difficult to drill into. I also lacked some of the tools I needed. My drill was not that powerful, my brass hardware was weaker than steel alternatives, and I had no good way to anchor the wood while drilling hardware into it. I ended up purchasing clamps to help with this, but I still struggled with assembly. 

I am happy with the overall appearance of the table. It is a little bit wobbly so I may still swap out some of the hardware, especially the corner brackets. But, it fits my aesthetic and looks nice in my living room. It is the dimensions I originally aimed for, and I achieved at least 4 out of 5 of my specifications. This project was a lot more expensive than I had originally anticipated, but I have some leftover materials that I can return. I also learned a lot from this project and practiced many new skills. I also got to problem solve (several times) throughout the process.

 

Sources:

thewomenhome.com/2024/12/11/cottagecore-aesthetic-cozy-nature-inspired-interiors

https://www.potterybarn.com/products/allen-c-table/