Drill pocket holes in all of the 2x4 pieces for the base. Drill pocket holes on both ends of all four 17" boards, plus two pocket holes facing up on each board to attach the base to the tabletop later. Drill two pocket holes facing up on two of the 20" boards. Drill pocket holes on the top and bottom of all four 9" boards.

Build two identical side frames using two 20" boards and two 9" boards for each frame. Position one 20" board at the top and one at the bottom, then attach the 9" boards between them to form a rectangle. Make sure the top 20" board is one of the boards with pocket holes facing up.

Attach the two side frames together using the four 17" boards. Secure two 17" boards at the top and two at the bottom to complete the base. The pocket holes can face outward since they will be covered later.

Cut the tabletop to 36" x 36". If using two panels, cut each panel to 18" wide and join them together with pocket holes to create the full top.

Cut the 1x2 trim boards with 45° mitered corners to fit around the tabletop. Attach the trim using wood glue and 1 1/4" pocket hole screws.

Center the base underneath the tabletop, spacing it about 8" in from each side. Attach the base to the top using 2" pocket hole screws from inside the base.

Apply wood glue to the outside of the base, then wrap all four sides with pole wrap. Secure the wrap with pin nails or brad nails, then trim the seam as needed for a clean fit.

Fill any nail holes if needed, sand the entire piece, and finish in the stain and top coat of your choice.