How can I make a coffee table out of a plastic storage bin?

Robyn Anstey
by Robyn Anstey
  4 answers
  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Aug 05, 2019

    Make sure the bin is good and sturdy in case somebody sits on it. There were lots of hard plastic ones on sale at Walmart this year, but I saw many cracked or busted lids. My favorite kind is Rubbermaid. They seem to last forever. Buy or make a flat wooden tabletop that’s a couple of inches wider than the lid all around. You could even choose round instead of rectangular. Drill small screw holes in 6-10 spaces in the cover and matching ones for the lid. Add wood glue and screw and glue the tabletop to the lid. Now spray paint everything in bright colors, or beige or white if you want to make the bib look like wood and the tabletop look like mirror, for instance. The lid/tabletop would still be removable so the bin becomes storage for candles, tablecloths, or sofa throws. This is a practical, possibly beautiful storage coffee table you can enjoy for a long time. Very best wishes, J

  • Ken Erickson Ken Erickson on Aug 05, 2019

    I would cut plywood to fit inside and outside the bottom of the bins. Bolt these together and then attach a top. Be sure the top isn't too big, or it may tip if weight is off center.

  • Lisa S. Lisa S. on Aug 06, 2019

    Be aware that all the items listed above - if you do not already have them - will cost much more that a used coffee table purchased at a thrift store, estate sale, or garage sale. One can be had for 10-15.00. They can be painted etc.

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Aug 08, 2019

    Eat a nice top and glue the top to the bin under it .you could even paint the bin