Small, short, flat surface: Why can't I find one?

December 1, 2018 5:57 PM

I'm looking for a max 1' x 2' wooden table that is approximately 6" to 1' tall that I can order online, preferably plain but finished, on the cheap side, and with free or low-cost shipping. I'm imagining something that comes unassembled in a box from a mass discounter. Searching common retailers is getting me nowhere. Do you know of such a table? Am I calling it the wrong thing?

I have a beautiful old end table from my folks that is currently covered with our router, cable modem, and power strip, thanks to terribly-placed outlets and coax jack in our apartment. I'd like to be able to clear it off and use it for, you know, actual end table stuff. There is a space that's a bit larger than 1' x 2' behind it that would be perfect for a small, short table to hold the aforementioned stuff.

posted by tubedogg to Shopping (12 answers total)

Best answer: Sounds like a wooden step stool could work.
posted by mightshould at 6:04 PM on December 1, 2018 [1 favorite]

Best answer: Would something like a monitor riser work? (the linked one is not quite your desired dimensions, but it's close and hopefully gives you a place to start looking)
posted by btfreek at 6:06 PM on December 1, 2018 [2 favorites]

What about a fancy handmade cutting board and attaching legs to it?

A step stool is a good idea
posted by jgirl at 6:12 PM on December 1, 2018

Best answer: This is a job for a $10 wooden crate from a craft store
posted by evilmomlady at 6:13 PM on December 1, 2018 [2 favorites]

this?
posted by Dashy at 6:26 PM on December 1, 2018

Best answer: My aunt has this folding this IKEA plant stand; it's only $15 US and would probably suit your purposes.
posted by hurdy gurdy girl at 6:30 PM on December 1, 2018 [2 favorites]

Something that comes unassembled... like a 2x and some screws?
posted by aniola at 6:50 PM on December 1, 2018

Try looking at shoe racks and closet organizers.
posted by ewok_academy at 7:31 PM on December 1, 2018

Best answer: Tray table like people use for breakfast in bed... here's a random one. Bonus of being storable and repurposeable if you move.

(Although--you could also just wall mount all your electronics, most of them wall mount nicely.)
posted by anaelith at 7:44 PM on December 1, 2018 [1 favorite]

Best answer: Lap trays for eating in bed. They have legs just long enough to clear your thighs. So the table doesn't rest on your lap.
posted by Oyéah at 7:45 PM on December 1, 2018 [1 favorite]

Best answer: This is almost your exact dimensions and is cheap.
posted by Joleta at 9:09 PM on December 1, 2018 [1 favorite]

Response by poster: Thanks, all! :D Some fantastic ideas here. A bed tray table is a really neat thought and seems fit for the job!
posted by tubedogg at 12:04 PM on December 3, 2018