How to Build a Whiskey Barrel Table

After the whiskey is gone, a table might get built.

Whiskey tables add a rustic touch to a room. While purchasing a whiskey barrel may be the hardest part of the project, they can be obtained through whiskey barrel dealers or whiskey factories. They can be rather pricey, even if they are used, so be prepared.

Things You'll Need

• 2 matching whiskey barrels, empty
• Soap
• Water
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrush
• Varnish, optional
• Long, rectangular tabletop
• Hammer
• Finishing nails

Instructions

1. Clean the whiskey barrels with soap and water, inside and out. If you want to refinish the outside of the barrels, this is the time to do it. Sand the old varnish off the barrel and apply a new coat of varnish, using a paintbrush. Be sure to wash the barrel after sanding and before varnishing to avoid varnish contamination.

2. Choose a tabletop that you like and that complements the type and size of the barrels. Wash it with soap and water. If you want to refinish the tabletop, remove the old varnish using the sandpaper, wash all the dust off it, and let it dry. Varnish the tabletop, and allow the varnish to dry on the barrels and the tabletop before continuing.

3. Place the tabletop on top of the whiskey barrels. Make sure the barrels are centered and evenly spaced under the tabletop. Nail the tabletop into place using the finishing nails and a hammer. Try not to strike the table with the hammer because that can cause dents in the tabletop. Try to nail the tabletop onto the upright boards of the barrels; this will provide stability to the table.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety equipment when using a hammer or doing any sanding. Safety goggles will prevent contaminants from entering your eyes, safety gloves can prevent injury to your hands and steel-toed boots can protect your feet in case anything falls.

References

• Kentucky Barrels: Whiskey Barrel Uses
• Lumber Jocks: Whiskey barrel bar table