Handy DIY Murphy Craft Table: Quick 9-Step Build

Looking for ideas to maximize or improve your home office or crafts space? This DIY Murphy craft table might help!

If you’ve got limited space, anything that offers some space-saving, efficiency, or functionality is a great idea. This DIY deck is a great option for a super-compact home office or crafts space. Since it folds, this Murphy table can offer you a little extra space when you are not using the desk. It is multi-functional, too, as it can serve as a chalkboard or even a mirror!

You can modify the shelves and the size of the entire unit to suit any purpose. Need a sewing table, a crafts table, or a laptop table? This versatile DIY furniture can be all that!

Building a Murphy Craft Table

Materials:

• 1 x 8 x 10′ Pine or Whitewood Board
• 1 x 6 x 10′ Pine or Whitewood Board
• 1 x 6 x 22 1/4″ Pine or Whitewood Board (optional for 3rd Shelf)
• 1 x 2 x 8′ Pine or Whitewood Board
• 1 x 3 x 8′ Pine or Whitewood Board
• 19 x 27 7/8 x 1/4″ Panel (for Chalkboard)
• Wood Glue
• 1 1/4″ Pocket Hole Screws
• 3″ Wood Screws
• Brad Nails
• 1 1/2″ Piano Hinge
• Suitcase or Swivel Latch
• Folding Leg Brackets
• Magnets
• Paint

Tools:

• Measuring Tape
• Drill
• Circular Saw
• Paintbrush
• Kreg Jig

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Start by measuring and cutting your wood according to the design of your Murphy craft table. Use the circular saw for precise cuts. You’ll need:

• Two pieces from the 1 x 8 board for the top and bottom of the table.
• Side pieces from the 1 x 6 board.
• The optional 1 x 6 x 22 1/4″ board can be used for an internal shelf.
• Use the 1 x 2 and 1 x 3 boards for framing and support.

Step 2: Build the Frame

1. Assemble the frame of your craft table using the 1 x 8 and 1 x 6 boards for the sides, top, and bottom.
2. Drill pocket holes at each end of the side boards using the Kreg Jig.
3. Connect the boards with wood glue and 1 1/4″ pocket hole screws, ensuring everything is square.

Step 3: Add the Back Panel

1. Attach the 19 x 27 7/8″ panel to the back of the frame using wood glue and brad nails. 
2. This panel will serve as the chalkboard or message center when the table is folded up.

Step 4: Install the Shelf (Optional)

1. Cut the optional 1 x 6 board to fit inside the frame if adding a shelf.
2. Install by drilling pocket holes on both ends and securing them with wood glue and screws.

Step 5: Mount the Table to the Wall

1. Determine the height of the table on the wall. Use the 1 x 2 board to create a mounting bracket.
2. Secure the mounting bracket to the wall studs with 3″ wood screws.
3. Attach the table frame to the mounting bracket with hinges at the bottom, ensuring it can fold up and down smoothly.

Step 6: Install the Folding Legs

1. Attach folding leg brackets to the underside of the table according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Cut the legs from the remaining wood, ensuring they are the correct length to support the table when down.

Step 7: Add Finishing Touches

1. Apply wood glue and attach magnets to the sides of the table and the wall to keep the table securely closed when not in use.
2. Install a suitcase latch or swivel latch on the opposite side to lock the table in place.

Step 8: Sand and Paint

1. Sand the entire table smoothly, removing any splinters or rough edges.
2. Paint the table and chalkboard panel in your chosen colors. Use a paintbrush for a smooth finish.

Step 9: Final Assembly

1. Once the paint is dry, attach the piano hinge to connect the table to the frame, ensuring it folds up neatly.
2. Test the folding mechanism and adjust the legs if necessary to ensure stability.

Customization Ideas for Your Murphy Craft Table

Customizing your Murphy craft table adds a personal touch to your space, making it uniquely yours. Whether you’re aiming for functionality, style, or a mix of both, there are plenty of ways to make your craft table fit your needs perfectly. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Choose Your Color Scheme

Selecting the ideal color scheme for your Murphy craft table is pivotal in aligning it with your room’s aesthetic or setting it apart as a standout piece. If your goal is harmony, look for colors that echo the palette of your existing decor. This could mean matching your table with the wall color for a seamless look or choosing hues that complement your room’s accent colors. 

On the other hand, opting for contrasting colors can inject vibrancy and character into your space, turning the craft table into a bold centerpiece. The underside of the table presents a creative opportunity, especially if it functions as a chalkboard or message center when folded. 

Consider using chalkboard paint for a practical yet stylish twist, or vibrant colors to add a surprise element of fun when the table is stowed away. This approach enhances the table’s aesthetic appeal and its utility and interaction with the space.

Select the Hardware

The choice of hardware is crucial in defining both the style and functionality of your Murphy craft table. Hardware pieces such as hinges, handles, and latches play a significant role in your table’s overall look and user experience. 

For a touch of sophistication and luxury, brass or gold-toned hardware can elevate the table’s appearance, making it an elegant addition to your crafting space. If you prefer a contemporary or industrial vibe, matte black or stainless steel hardware can offer a sleek and modern aesthetic. 

It’s important to select hardware that matches your design vision and meets your functional needs. For instance, high-quality hinges ensure smooth operation and secure latches keep the table steady when in use or neatly folded away. 

Handles that are stylish and comfortable to grip can make accessing your craft table pleasurable. This thoughtful selection of hardware complements your Murphy craft table’s visual appeal and enhances its practicality and durability.

Add Decorative Elements

Integrating decorative elements into your Murphy craft table enhances its appearance and reflects your style, making it a unique centerpiece in your room. Adding trim or moldings around the table’s edges can introduce a classic, refined look that complements traditional or vintage decor styles. These details can add depth and interest, transforming a simple craft table into statement furniture.

For a more customized and creative touch, stencils, decals, and hand-painted designs offer endless possibilities to express creativity. Whether you choose intricate patterns, inspirational quotes, or artistic motifs, these elements can make your Murphy craft table truly one of a kind. Not only do they add visual appeal, but they also infuse your crafting space with personality and inspiration.

For those who value functionality as much as style, adding a magnetic strip or corkboard to the underside of the table can be incredibly useful. When the table is folded up, this space can be an organizational tool for notes, photos, or inspiration, keeping your ideas and reminders within easy reach while adding an interactive and personalized element to your room.

Incorporate Storage Solutions

The space-saving nature of a Murphy craft table is one of its greatest assets, but its functionality can be further enhanced by incorporating smart storage solutions. Adding hooks, baskets, or small shelves to the underside of the table, you can maximize the use of space, keeping your crafting supplies organized and accessible even when the table is stowed away. This approach ensures that your workspace remains clutter-free and ready for your next project.

Consider integrating hidden storage compartments within the table design for even more efficient use of space. These compartments can be tailored to hold specific tools or materials, keeping them out of sight but easily accessible. 

A pegboard mounted to the wall behind the table or incorporated into the table design offers a versatile storage option for hanging tools, scissors, and other crafting essentials. This helps keep your workspace organized and allows quick and easy access to your tools, enhancing your productivity and enjoyment of the craft.

Alternative Uses for the Murphy Craft Table

The Murphy craft table is renowned for its versatility and space-saving design, making it an ideal addition to any home. Beyond its traditional use in crafting, this innovative piece of furniture can serve many purposes to fit your lifestyle and space requirements. Let’s explore some alternative uses that highlight its adaptability.

Home Office Desk

The Murphy craft table can easily transform into a compact home office desk. With many people working from home, it offers a perfect solution for small spaces. When not in use, it folds away, freeing up valuable floor space. Adding a few organizational accessories, such as a file holder or a small lamp, makes it an efficient workstation that blends seamlessly into your living area.

Dining Table for Small Spaces

The Murphy craft table can double as a dining table for those with limited living space. Its fold-down feature is perfect for creating an eating area in a small kitchen or studio apartment. Pair it with folding chairs that can be stored away when not in use, and you have a dining solution that is both practical and space-efficient.

Kids’ Homework and Play Station

The Murphy craft table is also ideal for creating a dedicated space for kids to do homework or enjoy arts and crafts. Its fold-away ability makes it a great addition to a child’s bedroom or playroom, offering a versatile surface for study time or creative play. With the addition of a few storage bins or containers, it can keep all their supplies organized and within reach.

Guest Room Vanity or Folding Ironing Board

In a guest room, the Murphy craft table can serve as a vanity for visitors to get ready or as a convenient folding ironing board. Its versatility means you can provide your guests a multi-functional space without cluttering the room with additional furniture. Add a mirror above the table and some beauty supplies or an iron and ironing mat, which becomes a thoughtful addition to your guest’s comfort.

Entertainment and Bar Area

Lastly, the Murphy craft table can be repurposed into an entertainment or bar area. It can display snacks, drinks, or a buffet when hosting gatherings. Customize it with glass holders or a wine rack underneath, and it becomes a stylish and functional piece that enhances your entertainment space.

The Murphy craft table’s ability to adapt to various needs and spaces makes it a smart investment for any home. Its functionality extends far beyond crafting, offering dining solutions, working, playing, and entertaining, all while maximizing available space.

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Tech Integration for a Modern Craft Table

In today’s digital age, integrating technology into our furniture enhances functionality and brings a touch of modernity into our living spaces. The Murphy craft table, known for its space-saving design, offers a unique opportunity to incorporate tech features, making it an even more versatile piece in any home. 

Here’s how tech integration can transform your Murphy craft table into a modern marvel for crafting, working, and more.

Built-in Charging Stations

Integrating a built-in charging station into your Murphy craft table is a game-changer for anyone who uses electronic devices while crafting. The table is a central hub for charging all your essential gadgets by embedding USB ports and power outlets directly into the design. This means your smartphone, tablet, or even a small laptop can be kept powered up and within arm’s reach. 

Imagine seamlessly streaming a crafting tutorial or following a digital pattern without worrying about your device dying mid-project. This feature is particularly useful for long crafting sessions or when the table is used as a temporary home office. It simplifies your workflow, keeps your space clutter-free from cords, and ensures your devices are always charged, enhancing both productivity and convenience.

LED Lighting

LED lighting transforms the Murphy craft table from a simple foldaway surface into a sophisticated crafting station. You can illuminate your workspace with precision by installing LED strips beneath the tabletop or along its perimeter. This targeted lighting is crucial for tasks requiring a keen eye for detail, such as sewing, drawing, or assembling small components. 

Not only does it reduce eye strain, but it also improves the quality of your work. The ability to adjust the LED brightness and color temperature allows for customization based on the time of day, the type of project, or personal preference. 

Adjustable LED lighting can create the perfect environment if you need bright, cool light for intricate work or a softer, warmer glow for a cozy crafting atmosphere. This feature elevates the overall functionality of the Murphy craft table, making it a versatile and inviting space for any creative endeavor.

Digital Tool Integration

Incorporating digital tools into the Murphy craft table design caters to the modern crafter who appreciates the blend of traditional techniques with the convenience of technology. By integrating a digital cutting mat directly into the table, crafters can enjoy precision cuts for fabrics, papers, and other materials, directly guided by software. This integration enhances accuracy and speeds up the crafting process, allowing for more complex projects to be undertaken confidently.

A built-in tablet holder is another smart addition to the Murphy craft table, providing hands-free access to a wealth of online resources. Whether following along with a video tutorial, displaying digital patterns, or using design software to plan out projects, having a tablet securely in place and at the right angle can greatly enhance productivity and learning. This setup is ideal for those who rely on online classes, DIY videos, or digital design tools to bring their ideas to life.

Furthermore, integrating digital tools opens up a world of creative possibilities that were previously cumbersome or impossible to explore with traditional methods alone. For instance, crafters can easily switch between different crafting disciplines, from sewing to paper crafting, without changing their setup. They can access cutting-edge design software, experiment with digital sketching, or even incorporate digital elements into their handmade projects.

This blend of digital and physical crafting tools transforms the Murphy craft table into a dynamic workspace that supports various creative activities. It not only makes crafting more accessible and enjoyable but also encourages crafters to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of their creativity. Integrating digital tools into the crafting space is a testament to how technology can enhance the crafting experience, making it more efficient, accurate, and boundless.

Smart Home Compatibility

Transforming your Murphy craft table into a smart home-compatible unit brings unprecedented convenience and efficiency to your crafting experience. By integrating voice-activated controls, you can manage various aspects of your environment without pausing your work. 

Imagine adjusting the LED lighting to get the perfect brightness for your DIY project, or changing the room’s temperature, all through simple voice commands. This seamless connectivity extends to playing your favorite music or podcasts, setting timers for glue drying or paint setting, and even activating reminders for project milestones, ensuring you stay on track.

Moreover, by linking your Murphy craft table with your home’s smart system, it becomes more than just a workspace; it turns into a central control point for your digital lifestyle. You can receive notifications, control smart appliances, or even access smart security features directly from your crafting station. This integration enhances your crafting sessions and embeds your hobby space into the larger ecosystem of your home, making it a truly modern and multifunctional area.

Augmented Reality (AR) Surface

Incorporating an augmented reality (AR) surface into your Murphy craft table represents the pinnacle of technological integration, offering a glimpse into the future of crafting. With AR technology, digital guides and templates can be projected right onto the physical surface of your table, allowing for unparalleled precision in cutting, drawing, or assembling components. This could drastically reduce mistakes and material waste, making crafting more efficient and enjoyable.

The AR surface could also offer interactive tutorials, where steps are projected onto your workspace, guiding you through complex projects with real-time adjustments based on your progress. This level of interaction makes learning new crafts easier and significantly enhances the creative process, allowing crafters to visualize their projects in a whole new dimension.

Furthermore, the potential for customization and creativity with an AR-enabled Murphy craft table is boundless. Designers could share their patterns or project guides in an AR format, allowing users to download and project them directly onto their tables. This technology could open up a global marketplace of designs and tutorials, connecting crafters worldwide and enabling a collaborative and immersive crafting community.

Conclusion

Crafting a Murphy craft table with your own hands is a fulfilling way to add functionality and style to your home. This project blends practicality with personal creativity, allowing you to design a workspace that perfectly meets your crafting needs while saving space. With the right materials, tools, and a bit of patience, you can create a versatile piece of furniture that serves multiple purposes beyond just crafting.

Check out our minimalist docking station that is a perfect fit for your murphy craft table!