Homestead Coffee Table

Assemble each trestle end — two splayed legs, top cleat, shelf support — using the video's sequence: glue and 2" brads first to tack every angled joint in perfect alignment, THEN drill the 1-1/2" pocket holes and drive the 2-1/2" pocket screws.

Angled joints creep when a screw hits them; the brads are disposable clamps that stop it. Pocket holes go on the faces that end up hidden — down and inward.

Screw a 2x6 base plate across the bottom of each leg assembly with the self-tapping screws. The plates widen the table's stance and give the splayed legs their landing.

Lay the top boards face down, position the leg assemblies on the underside, and screw through the top cleats into the top.

The nicer-top option, as ever with this collection: pocket-hole the top boards into one panel first (1-1/2" holes, 2-1/2" screws), then mount it as a unit — flatter, tighter seams, no gaps collecting crumbs.

Set the three 2x6 shelf boards on the shelf supports between the legs and screw up from underneath with the 2-1/2" screws.

Sand — break the top's edges generously; shins negotiate with coffee tables daily — then stain and topcoat. The collection look is a warm stain with visible grain; the durability requirement is a real topcoat, because this surface hosts mugs, feet, and board-game nights.