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How to make a DIY cement coffee table

Microcement diy coffee table
Wood for DIY microcment coffee table

DIY cement coffee table with Microcement and leftover plywood

This DIY cement coffee table is one of my most popular home DIY projects and always get lots of questions from people keen to create a piece of unique furniture for their home on a budget. Creating a stylish and functional concrete coffee table from leftover plywood and micro-cement is a rewarding DIY project that adds a contemporary edge to your living room and you can be sure that no-one will have one exactly like it.

This DIY guide will walk you through the entire build process, step by step, including tips on using concrete / microcement mix, preparing the wood base, and finishing with a durable concrete look. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or tackling a project like this for the first time, this is a fun and practical way to upcycle materials.

To build a DIY cement coffee table, you will need

Here’s a list of materials and tools to gather before you start. Most items can be found at B&Q or my Amazon Storefront.

  • Leftover plywood or any wood of your choice
  • Handsaw, Circular saw or jigsaw
  • Wood screws and wood glue
  • Silicone caulk
  • Putty knife
  • Interior smoother is ideal or wood filler could work
  • Micro-cement kit 
  • Concrete sealer for durability
  • Orbital sander or sandpaper (120-220 grit)
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Spreader for applying micro-cement
  • Rubber feet to protect the floor (optional) you could also use castors for mobility.

Build the Wooden Frame

Cut the upcycled wood for the base of the DIY microcement coffee table
Wooden base for DIY concrete coffee table
DIY coffee table wooden base from plywood

Start by constructing the wooden frame, which will serve as the foundation for your coffee table.

  1. Cut the Plywood:
    Using a handsaw saw or jigsaw, cut the leftover plywood to your desired size and shape. For this tutorial, I was making a triangle-shaped table, but you can opt for a rectangular or square design if you prefer.
  2. Assemble the Table Base:
    • Drill pilot holes into the pieces of plywood to connect them securely with wood screws or use a screw guide to save drilling pilot holes. 
    • Attach the pieces together using wood screws and wood glue. 
  3. Smooth the Edges:
    Sand any rough edges or imperfections using an orbital sander. This step ensures the whole table is smooth and ready for the next step.
  4. Seal the Frame:
    Use decorator’s caulk to seal all seams and joints, especially at the bottom surface and corners of the wooden frame, to prevent leaks when applying the micro-cement later. Smooth the caulk with a putty knife for a neat finish.

Apply the Interior Smoother

tub of ready -mixed plaster for DIY skimming
Covering the plywood base in plaster for DIY cement coffee table

Before applying the micro-cement, prepare the wood top with a base coat of finishing plaster to create a smooth and uniform surface.

  1. Fill all holes, gaps, and screw heads with wood filler or interior smoother.
  2. Sand the filler using 120-grit sandpaper until the surface is even.
  3. Wipe the entire table with a microfiber cloth or use a dustpan and brush to remove any dust particles before you apply the primer. 

Mix and Apply the Micro-Cement

Tub of microcement powder ready to be mixed
Mixture of microcement

Now comes the exciting part—applying the concrete mix to create that sleek concrete table top.

  1. Prime the Base:
    Apply a thin layer of primer from your micro-cement kit to ensure the material adheres well. Apply the primer with a sponge roller and allow to dry for about 30 minutes.
  2. Mix the Micro-Cement:
    Following the manufacturer’s recommendations, mix to a yogurt or toothpaste consistency. Work in small batches to avoid waste, as the material can set quickly.
  3. First Coat:
    Use a spreader to apply a thin coat (1-2mm) of the micro-cement over the top of the table and the side top surfaces. Work in even strokes, pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets and achieve a smooth finish. Let this coat dry completely.
  4. Prime again
    Apply another coat of primer over the dried microcement and allow to dry. 
  5. Second Coat:
    Apply the second coat of micro-cement following the same process. This coat creates a more polished and refined concrete look. Sand between coats with 220-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections or air bubbles.
  6. Last Step:
    Seal the micro-cement with a concrete sealer to protect it from stains, moisture, and wear. 

Attach Rubber Feet and Add Final Touches

DIY cement coffee table

Once the concrete cure is complete, you could finish off your concrete project by attaching rubber feet to the bottom of the frame to prevent scratching your floors.

Total Cost and Durability

The total cost of this project will depend on whether you already have some materials on hand (like leftover plywood ) and your choice of microcement. This DIY concrete coffee table project is an affordable and creative way to turn scraps of plywood into a modern living room centerpiece. The whole thing comes together beautifully with some patience and attention to detail. 

I share lots of microcement projects over on my Instagram, pop over and give me a follow for more inspo.

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