Skip to content
Picnic is an indispensable activity in any season. You can enjoy the freshness of the Spring in an immense field, feel the warm sun on the coast in the Summer, enjoy looking at the leaves fall in Autumn, and hobnob around the bonfire in the freezing Winter. To have a perfect picnic trip, we cannot miss a lovely and small item to create an ideal storage space. Building a picnic table is a fun and practical DIY project. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to build a picnic table with foldable legs.
Materials Needed to Build a Picnic Table
- Lumber and live edge slab with appropriate dimensions (a small picnic tabletop will be 18"W x 24"L x 16"H)
- Screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or wood stain (optional)
- Hinges
Tools Required
- Saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Measuring tape
How to Make a Picnic Table
1. Plan your table
Decide on the size and sketch your table including measurements and the shape of the table. In this blog, we're guiding you to build an 18"W x 24"L wooden table with 16"H foldable legs.
2. Cut the wood
Cut the wood to the required length with your saw. You can build a lovely picnic table by assembling many wood beams/slabs. Don't forget to prepare 04 pieces for your picnic table legs.
3. Assemble the tabletop
Lay the wood beams/slabs on a flat surface. Apply wood glue where they meet in the middle then screw them together. For the table made of small wood beams, you will need to create a rectangular frame to connect all the wooden pieces.
4. Attach the legs
Attach hinges to the top of each leg. After that, position the legs on the underside of the tabletop. They should be about 14-16 inches from the ends of the table. Then, secure the legs carefully to the underside of the table with wood screws. This will allow the legs to fold under the table for easy storage and moving to many locations.
Related products:
5. Sand and finish
Smooth any rough edges and surfaces using sandpaper. You should paint or stain the table to protect it from the natural elements and give it a perfect look.
Building a picnic table is a rewarding DIY project that brings people together. With the right materials, tools, and step-by-step guidance, you can create a functional and beautiful addition to your outdoor space. In this comprehensive tutorial, we'll walk you through the process, from selecting the perfect wood to assembling the table. Whether it's for family gatherings, outdoor meals, or simply enjoying nature, your handcrafted picnic table will become a cherished centerpiece for years to come.
Safety Tips
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting wood.
- Use clamps to hold wood in place while cutting them.
- Always measure twice before cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What angle are picnic table legs?
The legs of a picnic table are typically cut at an angle for stability and aesthetics. A common angle used for traditional picnic tables, where the legs are angled outwards, is 22.5 degrees. This angle allows the legs to rest flat on the underside of the table and angle outwards so they also sit flat against the floor surface. However, the angle can vary depending on the specific design of the picnic table and the needs of its owners.
2. What is the best wood to build a picnic table out of?
Several types of wood are commonly used for creating picnic tables due to their features, durability, and resistance the weather conditions. Here are some of the greatest options:
- Cedar: Cedar is one of the top choices for outdoor projects that will be exposed to the elements. It is durable without being treated with chemicals and stands up well to the natural elements.
- White oak: This wood is naturally resistant to decay, insect attack, and dampness.
- Redwood: This type of wood has some bad publicity due to over-logging, but today, the situation is better, and the wood is back.
- Douglas Fir: This robust and sturdy softwood produces excellent picnic tables.
- Teak: Teak is a tropical hardwood trê species known for its durability and water resistance.
- Spanish Cedar: This is a lightweight wood which is resistant to decay and insect attack.
Recommended Metal Leg Designs for Your Outstanding Picnic Table
Flowyline Design has a hundred table leg and base designs and many of them are suitable for small and big picnic tables. Here are some recommendations with unique and lovely table leg designs for gorgeous and appealing picnic tables:
Uzar Design
The Uzar design is indeed suitable for a picnic table. It's a set of legs that seamlessly blend industrial edge with contemporary appeal. This design can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your table. The solid construction ensures that your table remains steady and unwavering when holding heavier items.
Haru Design
Haru table legs, with their distinctive design, may improve both the aesthetic value and the stability of your picnic table during your time on a trip. This leg design can bring a touch of freshness and creativity to the entire table. The picnic table with Haru metal legs covered with a bright fabric will immediately impress you.
Related product:
Wishbone Design
This shape of the legs is suitable for an uneven surface. The gold finish will add a touch of modernity and brightness to your space creating an inviting atmosphere. The most recommended idea is to combine this design with a wood slab and then add a table runner on the surface of the tabletop.
Related product:
You can also visit the website of Flowyline Design to see all of the distinctive and sophisticated metal legs and bases. You may find amazing ideas to renew your living space and express your unique style and taste by making new projects.
Building a picnic table with foldable legs can be a great weekend project. It's a practical piece of furniture that can be used for many years. Learning how to build a picnic table is also a great way to spend time outdoors and learn new skills. The way you choose the finish coat and look for the artwork also can express your style and taste. We hope you find this blog helpful and happy building!
