If you’re a savvy shopper like me, chances are you thought to compare LCD TV prices before buying that beautiful new 42-inch telly. The problem, though, is that even the cheapest LCD TV can be enough to drain your funds and leave you without the means to buy a decent stand or entertainment center. Never fear! Building your own TV stand is an easy project that, if done correctly, can be finished in an afternoon and cost you next to nothing.
The first step in constructing your own TV stand is securing your wood. Be sure that you measure the space you’ve allotted for your stand and take these dimensions with you to the hardware store. Most home improvement stores will cut the wood to your specifications, saving you precious time. While any hardwood will do here, I recommend choosing cedar for those who want to skip a few steps. An unfinished cedar stand will lend a rustic air to your room and eliminates the need for paints and varnishes. You’ll still need to round and smooth out a few corners, however, so go ahead and pick up some cheap power tools if you don’t have them already. An electric saw and power sander should do the trick.
Once you have your materials set, it’s time to assemble the stand. There are a variety of helpful templates to be found online, but I would recommend a simple model if this is your first attempt. Following one of these templates, you can assemble your frame before moving on to any necessary shelving. To install shelves, you’ll need to make small grooves in your frame in the appropriate spots. This is where your power saw or router comes in handy, and for my money there’s no better tool for the job than the DeWalt DW341K.
At this point, you’re almost done! Move your stand into place and gently place your new TV atop it. Does the wood creak or give at all? If so, you may need to reinforce it with thicker wood along the panels. If, however, you’ve passed the test and proven yourself a true handyman, feel free to crack a beer and give yourself a hearty pat on the back. You’ve not only made your own TV stand, you’ve also saved a considerable amount of money that can now be spent on extra home and garden accessories.
