Rustic Parsons Farmhouse Table

Build the tabletop first: pocket-hole all eight 2x4 top boards together with 1-1/2" pocket holes every 8–12" and 2-1/2" screws, keeping the gaps between boards minimal. A flat, tight top is the whole look.

Add the end boards, minimizing the gap to the top boards, predrilling and screwing down with 2-1/2" screws and glue.

Add the 2x4 side aprons/boards, screwing into both the tabletop end boards and the joists with glue and 2-1/2" screws. Predrill all holes so nothing splits.

Attach the 2x2 under-table joists to the underside, then bolt the four 4x4 legs to the joists with 3" self-tapping screws and glue. Check the base is level and square.

There should be no exposed holes on the outside of the table. Sand with 120 grit and vacuum clean. Then stain or seal and topcoat — a bare softwood dining top soaks up every spill and stains permanently, so this step is not optional.