DIY Tree Stump Side Table

This is a very, very simple project, but you'll end up with a gorgeous side table that is incredibly sturdy and will last you for years!
Start off with an old tree stump. Allow the stump to sit out in a cool, dry place for at least 2-3 weeks to dry out. We left ours in the garage. This will ensure any bugs, moisture, etc. are completely out of the stump before you bring it into your house!


We started off with 80-grit sandpaper to get the really rough parts off, then moved to 180-grit, and finished it off with 320-grit. This helped us get a super smooth finish and ensured that we won’t get any splinters. This thing is as smooth as any store-bought wood table, so the extra sanding was definitely worth it!
Use a chisel to remove the bark from the stump, then sand. Once it's sanded, you're almost done (seriously!). I used a foam brush to apply 3 coats of polycrylic, sanding lightly in-between each coat.
Then, I let it dry and brought it into the room! You can see way more detail + photos on the full blog post.
Love & Renovations
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Go
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 6 questions
  • Mar1887749 Mar1887749 on Apr 03, 2016
    Amanda, this is a lovely library reading area, did you build your shelving also?
  • Chic tayao Chic tayao on Apr 03, 2016
    Very simple but it added elegance to you study room. What kind of tree did this stump come from?
  • Bree Marie Bree Marie on Apr 06, 2016
    Very creative idea. Do you remember where you bought your pillow from?
Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 44 comments
  • Jane R. Jane R. on May 26, 2016
    I took a tree log, cut it flat on the top and bottom, glued a ceramic tile to the top with caulk. You can pick the whole thing up by the tile and it won't come off. The only thing I didn't do was remove the bark. I use this as a side table to my wicker chair on the front porch. Someday the bark will probably fall off and then I'll sand it.
  • Taffetal Taffetal on Jun 07, 2016
    I love these natural, rustic accessories. You found a lovely interesting log.
Next