I want to cut down an old table to use as a bedside table

Question

The table is 24 inches long,18 inches across, and 24 inches tall. It has two shallow drawers in it and they're only 17 inches long. Can I cut the table to 18 inches long, remove the back panel and the back legs and attach them to the newly cut table? I'd have to take it somewhere to have it cut since I wouldn't be able to cut it accurately, but does this seem unreasonable? I'm going to paint it so that would disguise any parts that might not look perfect. And it's not going to be something that is on display to visitors, anyway.

Jean Myles · Answer

leave and look for another table closer to the size you need. Take the money you would pay someone to repurpose this table and hit the second hand stores. Or fix this one up and sell it tho pay for the bedside table you are looking for.

Louise · Answer

I've looked and looked and looked for one the size I need and can't find one except one in the hundreds of dollars. That's why this thought came to me today. Almost all I'd need someone else to do is to cut it for me. I could do most of the rest, or so I think. I also teach at a technical school and might be able to find a carpentry teacher or student to do the cutting and help me a bit with the rest.

Valerie · Answer

I tend to agree with Jean. This table has such good structure, that it would be a pity to cut it. I would bring it back to its former glory, and use it somewhere use. If you need a new bedside table, there are some 'cheap' alternatives - for example you could adjust a crate. Here is a link: http://www.hometalk.com/diy/bedroom/furniture/-4294684

Grandmaquilts · Answer

Could you help me understand the desired measurements better? 
 How wide (side to side)? How deep (front to back) As I understand it, you are satisfied with the current height? I have to say, I love the HUNT for the perfect piece. Try garage and estate sales and thrift shops. Take a measuring tape and your imagination.

Mickey Baron · Answer

Are you talking about also saving that bottom shelf? Cuz girl...that is just TOO much work! I agree, just keep on hunting. The table may not take all that.

Country Design Home · Answer

Hi Louise! You could absolutely do that, but the cuts would have to be precise and you will lose the decorative beveled edge along the top. Is it possible to just turn it sideways-do you have enough room next to the bed to accommodate the 24 inch width? You could remove the drawers and replace with a wood panel, or just leave them as hidden storage up against the bed.

Cathy · Answer

You could cut the back off and attach it to the wall with no legs.

Susan · Answer

If you cut it in half it seems like you could easily add two screw on legs to the back and do the same for the other half for two tables, the mis matched legs would be in the back hidden from eyesight. How does that sound?

Nur3199750 · Answer

Could you post a picture with drawers removed?
Maybe picture with inverted view.

Spenc · Answer

I am not able to clearly picture what cuts you propose or what you want as the result. The only change that would not be too complicated would be to shorten the legs. If I understand what you want, the answer would be NO because there are no power saws to cleanly cut that cabinet down to a different size...and then there's the re-attachment of the legs, which in this construction are an integral unit connecting the sides to the front and back. But perhaps I'm just not getting what you're asking to do. Maybe if you posted more pics and drew cut lines and drew the result you want.

KOKO LOKO TOKO · Answer

Good luck !

I want to cut down an old table to use as a bedside table

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I want to cut down an old table to use as a bedside table

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