How to Build a Tiled Sofa Table

Standard sofa tables are 4'x6' with 16" legs and are easy to build--even for a novice. However, if you want to cover it with ceramic tile, adjustments must be made to either the tabletop or the tiles. In this weekend project, we will adjust the tabletop size and avoid the complications of cutting tiles. This is a good beginner project because it dips into woodworking and tiling. It may pave the way for more adventuresome projects in each field.

Instructions

1

Have the lumber store cut your board and legs to measure. Sand each piece, and apply 2 or 3 coats of stain. Let dry thoroughly between coats.

2

Drill pilot holes at the four corners of your tabletop. Drop a bit of wood glue into each hole to insure a tight bond with the screw. Screw the table leg in place from the top of the table. Repeat until you have your sofa table. Countersink each screw.

3

Do a dry layout of your tiles on top of the table. There should be a space between each tile the width of the tile spacers where the grout will be applied. Begin at the center of the table and work out. You built the top of the table to accommodate your tiles, but you need to install the tiles on a straight line. Use a ruler and a marker to keep everything in alignment.

4

Apply tile adhesive using a notched tile trowel to the center of the table in a strip to each end. Place the tiles onto the adhesive the same way you did in your dry layout. Push them down firmly so they adhere completely on the back surface. Place a tile spacer at each corner to leave room for the grout. Continue to install tiles until the tabletop is covered. Dry for several hours.

5

Remove the tile spacers and mix unsanded grout according to manufacturer's directions. Use a rubber float to apply the grout. Smooth it on over the tiles at an angle so that it fills the crevices left by the spacers. Begin at one corner and work diagonally across the table. Get as much into the spaces and off the tile tops as you can. Use a damp sponge to remove any grout left on top of tiles. Dry for an hour; use a soft cloth to buff off any grout residue.

6

After the tile top is completely dry, cure it for a week or so and then buff it again so it is completely clean. Apply a grout sealer to the grout lines to keep it from staining.