10 Cool Plywood Furniture Projects to Build

Plywood, with its layered strength, smooth finish, and budget-friendly price, is a fantastic material for crafting stylish, modern furniture. Whether you’re working with birch, oak, or marine-grade sheets, plywood offers endless possibilities for DIY projects that blend form and function. From sleek shelves to quirky chairs, it’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to build cool, custom pieces without breaking the bank.

This article explores 10 cool plywood furniture projects you can build, offering inspiration, practical steps, and design tips to create standout items for your home. These projects range from beginner-friendly to moderately challenging, showcasing plywood’s versatility and charm. Grab some sheets, your tools, and let’s build something awesome!

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Plywood Coffee Table: Minimalist Chic

Build a plywood coffee table for a sleek, modern centerpiece that’s both cool and functional. Its clean lines and smooth finish make it a living room standout.

Inspired by minimalist and Scandinavian designs, this project is simple yet stylish.

Cut a ¾-inch plywood sheet (e.g., birch) to 24×48 inches for the top.
Sand smooth with 120-220 grit, sealing with polyurethane or a clear coat.

Attach four angled legs (cut from plywood or metal) with screws or brackets.
Add a lower shelf (e.g., 20×44 inches) for storage, securing with glue and screws.
Place in your living room, styling with books or a tray for a chic vibe.

Pro Building Tip: Use a router to round edges for a softer, polished look.

Budget Consideration: Source affordable birch plywood from big-box stores.

Plywood Bookshelf: Modern Storage

Craft a plywood bookshelf for a cool, open storage solution with a contemporary edge. Its layered look adds texture and utility to any space.

Drawing from industrial and modern designs, this project is versatile and practical.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into two sides (e.g., 12×48 inches) and shelves (e.g., 12×36 inches).
Sand smooth, stain or paint in a bold color like grey or black, and seal with a clear coat.
Assemble with wood glue and screws, spacing shelves evenly or staggered.

Add a back panel (optional) for stability, securing with nails or screws.
Place in a living room or office, filling with books or decor for a cool display.

Pro Building Tip: Use a jig for even shelf spacing and a sturdy frame.

Budget Consideration: Use lower-grade plywood for the back to save costs.

10 Cool Plywood Furniture Projects to Build — Plywood Furniture

Plywood Platform Bed: Sleek Simplicity

Build a plywood platform bed for a cool, low-profile sleep space with modern flair. Its smooth surface and sturdy build make it a bedroom essential.

Inspired by minimalist and Japanese designs, this project is bold yet easy.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into a frame (e.g., 60×80 inches for a queen) and slats (e.g., 4×60 inches).
Sand smooth, seal with a natural finish or stain, and assemble with screws and glue.

Add four short legs (e.g., 6-8 inches) cut from plywood or blocks for support.
Attach a headboard (optional) from a single plywood sheet for extra style.
Place in your bedroom, topping with a mattress and neutral bedding.

Pro Building Tip: Reinforce the frame with corner brackets for added strength.

Budget Consideration: Use construction-grade plywood and paint for affordability.

Plywood Desk: Cool Workspace

Construct a plywood desk for a chic, functional workspace that’s perfect for home offices or studies. Its clean design and smooth texture keep it cool and practical.

Drawing from modern and mid-century styles, this project is a DIY favorite.

Cut a ¾-inch plywood sheet (e.g., 24×48 inches) for the top and two sides (e.g., 24×28 inches).
Sand smooth, seal with polyurethane, and assemble into a U-shape with screws.
Add a cross-brace or shelf (e.g., 20×44 inches) for stability and storage.

Paint or stain in a bold color like navy or leave natural for a sleek look.
Place in a study or corner, topping with a laptop or lamp for a cool setup.

Pro Building Tip: Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting near edges.

Budget Consideration: Source affordable plywood sheets from local suppliers.

Plywood Dining Chair: Quirky Comfort

Craft a plywood dining chair for a cool, unique seating option with modern flair. Its layered design and sturdy build make it a dining room standout.

Inspired by mid-century and experimental designs, this project adds personality.

Cut ½-inch plywood into a seat (e.g., 18×18 inches) and back (e.g., 12×18 inches).

Sand smooth, seal with a clear coat, and shape legs from ¾-inch plywood (e.g., 16 inches).
Assemble with wood glue and screws, angling legs for stability and style.
Add a cushion or paint in a bright color like mustard for extra coolness.

Place around a dining table for a set of quirky, custom chairs.

Pro Building Tip: Use a jig saw to curve the backrest for ergonomic comfort.

Budget Consideration: Use plywood scraps for smaller parts like braces.

Plywood TV Stand: Sleek Entertainment

Build a plywood TV stand for a cool, modern base that’s both stylish and functional. Its smooth finish and open design keep your media area chic.

Drawing from contemporary and industrial trends, this project is practical and cool.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into a top (e.g., 20×48 inches) and two sides (e.g., 20×18 inches).
Sand smooth, stain in a dark tone like walnut, and seal with polyurethane.
Add an open shelf (e.g., 18×44 inches) midway with screws and glue.

Attach four short legs or a base (e.g., 4-6 inches) for elevation.
Place in a living room, topping with a TV and decor for a sleek look.

Pro Building Tip: Add cable cutouts in the back for tidy wiring.

Budget Consideration: Use lower-grade plywood for hidden sections.

Plywood Side Table: Compact Coolness

Make a plywood side table for a cool, small accent piece that’s perfect beside a sofa or bed. Its layered edges add a modern, handcrafted touch.

Inspired by minimalist and urban designs, this project is quick and stylish.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into a top (e.g., 18×18 inches) and three legs (e.g., 18×12 inches).

Sand smooth, seal with a clear coat or paint in a bold color like teal.
Assemble legs in a tripod shape with screws and glue for stability.
Leave edges exposed to show off plywood’s layered texture.
Place next to a chair or bed, adding a lamp or plant for cool charm.

Pro Building Tip: Angle legs slightly outward for a wider, sturdier base.

Budget Consideration: Use plywood scraps from larger sheets.

Plywood Storage Bench: Dual-Purpose Design

Construct a plywood storage bench for a cool, multi-use piece that combines seating and hidden storage. Its clean lines make it a stylish addition to any room.

Drawing from modern and functional designs, this project is practical and chic.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into a top (e.g., 18×48 inches) and box frame (e.g., 18x16x48 inches).
Sand smooth, seal with polyurethane, and assemble with hinges for a lift-top lid.
Add a base or short legs (e.g., 4 inches) with screws for elevation.

Paint or stain in a soft grey or natural finish for a cool look.
Place in an entryway or bedroom, topping with cushions for comfort.

Pro Building Tip: Reinforce the box with internal braces for heavy storage.

Budget Consideration: Use affordable construction plywood and paint.

Plywood Bar Cart: Mobile Coolness

Build a plywood bar cart for a cool, portable piece that’s perfect for entertaining. Its layered design and smooth finish add a modern, playful vibe.

Inspired by mid-century and cocktail trends, this project is fun and functional.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into two shelves (e.g., 18×30 inches) and side supports (e.g., 18×32 inches).
Sand smooth, seal with a clear coat or stain in a bold color like black.
Attach caster wheels to the bottom and handles to the sides with screws.

Assemble with glue and screws, adding a rail or edge to the top shelf.
Place in a dining room or patio, filling with drinks and glassware.

Pro Building Tip: Use locking wheels for stability when parked.

Budget Consideration: Source affordable wheels from discount hardware stores.

Plywood Wall-Mounted Shelf: Floating Style

Craft a plywood wall-mounted shelf for a cool, floating storage solution with a modern twist. Its exposed edges and sleek design make it a chic wall accent.

Drawing from contemporary and minimalist trends, this project is simple and cool.

Cut ¾-inch plywood into a shelf (e.g., 12×36 inches) and support braces (e.g., 12×4 inches).

Sand smooth, seal with polyurethane or paint in a bright color like red.
Mount to the wall with heavy-duty brackets or hidden supports using screws.
Leave the plywood edge visible for a layered, handcrafted look.

Place in a kitchen or living room, topping with plants or books.

Pro Building Tip: Use a level to ensure a perfectly straight mount.

Budget Consideration: Use plywood scraps and repurpose brackets.

Conclusion

Plywood furniture projects offer a cool, affordable way to build stylish, modern pieces that transform your home. This article has explored 10 ideas, from coffee tables to bar carts, each showcasing plywood’s versatility, strength, and chic layered look. Whether you’re furnishing a small apartment or a spacious room, these projects bring creativity and function to your DIY endeavors.

Pick a project that matches your space and skill level, grab some plywood, and start building. With its smooth finish and endless design potential, plywood will inspire you to craft furniture that’s not only cool but also uniquely yours—perfect for adding a modern edge to your home!