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If you love rustic decor as much as we do you would probably love a log side table. But, if you purchase one in a store it would cost well over $100. Plus, why encourage a company to kill a tree when it is so easy to source downed trees in our own community and upcycle them. We found FREE Wood on craigslist.org and were able to pick-up the perfect log at no cost.

You can also see the full blog post at: http://studiograyhouse.com/diy-log-side-table/

SUPPLIES (affiliate):
Large Log (we found ours free on Craigslist)
Sherwin-Williams Waterborne Polyurethane Varnish in Satin Clear
White Paint

TOOLS(affiliate):
Chisel
Mallet
Ruler
Chainsaw
Hand Planer
Electric Sander
80 grit sandpaper
120 grit sandpaper
Paintbrush

Step 1: Remove the Bark

After allowing the log to dry for a week we removed the bark using a sharp chisel and rubber mallet.

Step 2: Measure and Cut Log

Use white paint to indicate where to cut the log. We measured all the way around the log from the top to be sure the top and bottom would be parallel. Then, using a chainsaw we cut the log to our desired height.

Step 3: Plane and Sand Log

We used an electric hand planer to smooth the top of the log and sanded all the surfaces with 80 grit sand paper before moving to 120 grit. Using a finer grit like 120 or even 220 creates a nice smooth finish.

Step 4: Finish and Seal Log

Finally, to finish the log side table we sealed all the surfaces with Wood Classics® Waterborne Polyurethane Varnish. We used a water-based varnish because it was important to us that the finish be as natural as possible and not end up yellow, orange, or amber.

Any oil-based finish will yellow wood.

That's it! We hope you like the project and to more projects like it visit Gray House Studio.