How-To: DIY Laminate Side Tables

Create a stylish, durable side table for your home using Formica® Laminate. With endless colors and patterns – including those that mimic wood, stone or just show off bold patterns – it’s easy to match your style while enjoying a surface that’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean.  

Materials List: 

• Plywood or MDF boards (for tabletop and base)
• Formica^® Laminate sheets (choose your favorite color/pattern)
• Contact cement or laminate adhesive
• J-roller or laminate roller
• Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
• Table legs or base (wood, metal, or prefabricated)
• Saw, clamps, and measuring tape
• Laminate strips for self edging if using this option
• Goggles, gloves, ear/hearing protection (always build with safety in mind) 

Step 1: Plan and Cut Your Table 

Measure the desired height and tabletop size for your side table. Use a saw to cut your plywood or MDF to size. Sand edges smooth to remove splinters and ensure the laminate adheres evenly. 

Step 2: Prepare the Laminate 

Cut Formica^® Brand Laminate slightly larger than your tabletop dimensions. This allows for trimming and ensures full coverage. 

If you plan to self-edge, also cut narrow laminate strips slightly wider than the thickness of your tabletop. When self-edging, the edge strips should be applied first before the tabletop. 

Step 3: Apply Adhesive 

Apply contact cement or laminate adhesive to both the tabletop and the backside of the laminate, following the adhesive product instructions. Let it set until tacky. 

If self-edging, apply adhesive to both the table edges and the back of the laminate edge strips as well.  

Another alternative, if using a high-quality birch plywood as a substate, is to sand the edges smooth and varnish for a modern look – or leave unfinished for a raw look. 

Optional Step: Apply Self-Edge 

If you are using a self-edge, the edging must be adhered to the substrate before the tabletop. 

Apply the self-edging by pressing the laminate edge strips firmly onto the tabletop edges and roll them tight to the substrate using a J-roller. 

Once secure, trim the edge strips flush with the tabletop surface. 

Step 4: Adhere Tabletop Laminate 

For the tabletop, carefully place the laminate on the tabletop, starting from one edge and smoothing it down gradually. Use a J-roller to remove air bubbles and ensure full adhesion. 

Step 5: Trim Excess Laminate 

Once the laminate is fully adhered and secure, trim edges with a router, laminate trimmer, or fine sandpaper. 

Step 6: Attach the Base 

Secure your chosen table legs or base to the tabletop. Check for stability and adjust as needed. 

Step 7: Finish and Enjoy 

Wipe the table surface clean and admire your handiwork. Your new Formica^® Brand Laminate side table is ready for everyday use!