I picked this TV stand because it’s light and appeared to be the right size for my small apartment. (I needed something light because I live on the 3rd floor.) The material is particle board and plastic. No tools were necessary. The instructions only contained pictures. It’s assembled with the bottom of the particle board facing up. To me, I don’t think it was clear where the washers were supposed to go, but still turned out fine. It’s the right size and weight for what I need right now. My TV is 32”, and holds it just fine.