DIY Trunk Side Table

Glue and screw (or pocket-screw) the five 1x4 slats together edge to edge to form each panel face. Attach the 1x2 frame verticals to the panel's outside edges first, then attach the bottom horizontal — leave the top horizontal off for now, you'll add it after the panel is standing.

Build the two side panels the same way, gluing and nailing the bottom horizontal on with a nail gun and glue since the 1-1/4" pocket screws used elsewhere are too long for this thinner joint here — a smaller pocket screw works too if you have one.

Join the four panels at the corners into a box, then add the remaining top horizontal 1x2 pieces now that the box is standing. Attach the assembled box to the 1/4" plywood base with screws, nails, or glue.

Install the four bun feet per the hardware manufacturer's instructions.

Miter the four lid frame pieces at 45° and join them into a frame with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Fill the center opening with scrap pieces cut to fit, or a single panel cut to size. Screw the support cleats to the underside of the frame.

Sand everything, then finish with your chosen two-tone combination — for example, a wood-tone stain on the slats and white paint on the frames, masking carefully between the two. Tack decorative nail heads along the base if desired. Attach the lid with hinges and a support arm or chain so it stays open on its own.