Sizing Guide: Flowyline Design

The standard height of various types of table legs varies depending on their intended use:

• End/ coffee table legs are usually 16 to 24 inches tall, providing a comfortable height for individuals seated on a sofa.
• Dining table legs are generally 28 to 30 inches tall, which aligns well with most chairs and dining benches.
• Counter table legs are typically between 34 and 37 inches tall, often used to support countertops in kitchens and other areas.
• Lastly, bar table legs average between 40 and 43 inches tall, making them ideal for areas where users are either standing or seated on a high stool.

Stability: The Key to a Reliable Table

Stability is the cornerstone of any table’s functionality. It guarantees that the table remains steadfast and free from wobbling during use. The stability of a table is predominantly determined by the breadth of its legs. Below are some guidelines to ensure optimal stability.

End/Coffee Height Table Legs

These are typically shorter and hence:

• For designs featuring two distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 11-14 inches.
• For designs featuring four distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 5-6 inches.
• For table base designs, the optimal width for each leg is 10-13 inches.

Dining Height Table Legs

These are a bit taller:

• For designs featuring two distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 20-24 inches.
• For designs featuring four distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 2-3 inches.
• For table base designs, the optimal width for each leg is 16-20 inches.

Counter and Bar Height Table Legs

These are even taller and hence, require a larger base:

• For designs featuring two distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 11-13 inches.
• For designs featuring four distinct legs, the optimal width for each leg is 8-10 inches.
• For table base designs, the optimal width for each leg is 12-14 inches.

Matching the Width of Table Legs and Tabletops

The appropriate width between the tabletop and table legs helps the overall table to be stable, not overlap and lose aesthetics (legs are too big while the top is too small or vice versa).

The ideal table leg width should be half to two-thirds (50%~70%) of the tabletop width.

However, several factors affect this ratio such as:

• Material: Heavier tabletop materials like solid wood or marble need sturdier and wider bases. Meanwhile, lighter tabletops, such as glass or thin wood, can be matched with narrower legs.
• Shape of the tabletop: Round table tops are often combined with a pedestal base with the base width at least half the width of the tabletop. Square or rectangular tops can fit one central base or multiple table legs depending on the width with the base width ratio being about 2/3 of the tabletop width.
• Height of the table type: Some tables taller than others, such as bar tables, generally require wider legs, such as sets of 2 or 4 legs, to ensure stability.

Sufficient Support for Tabletop

The tabletop is where all the daily activities happen. It needs to be adequately supported by the table legs. The overhang allowance ensures the tabletop is well-balanced and doesn't tip over.

• Wood tabletops: Given the robust nature of wood, it doesn’t necessitate a substantial overhang. A range of 16-31 inches should be ample.
• Stone tabletops: Due to the weight of the stone, a larger overhang is required to maintain equilibrium. A recommended overhang would be around 15 inches.
• Glass tabletops: Glass, being fragile, requires a smaller overhang. An overhang of approximately 12 inches should be sufficient.

Remember, these are just guidelines and the actual overhang may vary based on the specific design and stability requirements of the table. Always ensure the table is stable and safe to use after installation.

Leg and Chair Room

Comfort is key when it comes to tables. Adequate leg and chair room ensures that the users are comfortable while using the table.

• Minimum leg room: For optimal comfort and ease of movement, it’s suggested to have at least 25 inches of leg room. This is the space needed from the edge of the table to any obstruction (like a wall or another piece of furniture). This ensures that users can sit and move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
• Minimum chair room: This is the space needed for a chair to be pulled out from the table so that someone can sit down or stand up comfortably. A minimum of 19 inches is recommended.

Attaching Table Legs and Bases

Choosing Threaded Inserts and Bolts

Selecting the appropriate size for your threaded inserts and bolts is a critical step in ensuring the stability of your table legs. Below is a guide to help you choose the correct sizes of threaded inserts and bolts for each type of mounting hole.

• For mounting plates with existing oval-shaped mounting holes measuring 0.4" x 1", the suggested size for threaded inserts and bolts is M6.
• For holes of a more unique, cross-like shape measuring 1,35" x 1,35", it is recommended to use threaded inserts and bolts of size M8.

About C-channel

C-channel is a type of structural steel beam that is shaped like a “C”. It is made from hot-rolled carbon steel and is available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. Flowyline offers two types of C-channel with two depths to fit a wide range of tabletop sizes.

• 0.5” depth C-channel: Suitable for smaller tabletops (32-36” wide) or lightweight applications, where less structural support is required.
• 1” depth C-channel: Suitable for larger tabletops (38-42” wide) or heavy-duty applications, where more structural support is needed.

The width of the table, rather than the thickness, is considered when choosing a C-channel because the width of the table determines the span that the C-channel needs to support. A wider table will require a deeper C-channel for adequate support.

When choosing a C-channel, there are several factors to consider:

• Table width: As mentioned, the width of the table determines the span that the C-channel needs to support. Wider tables require deeper C-channels.
• Weight of the tabletop: The weight that the C-channel needs to support is also a crucial factor. Heavier tabletops may require a deeper or thicker C-channel for adequate support.
• Material of the tabletop: The material of the tabletop can affect its weight and rigidity, which in turn can influence the choice of C-channel.
• Purpose of the table: The intended use of the table can also influence the choice of C-channel. For example, a table meant for heavy-duty use may require a more robust C-channel.

Some Examples

To help you visualize the appropriate dimensions for table legs and bases, we’ve prepared a few examples. These will be demonstrated using two distinct table designs: Curva metal table legs and Lithe table base.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 27” W x 47” L, coffee/end height

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 13”. In this case, we can use the 108 Curva design for your coffee table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 36” W x 48” L, dining height (four seats)

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 20”. In this case, we can use the 423 Curva design for your dining table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 60” W x 78” L, dining height (six seats)

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 25,5”. In this case, we can use the 602 Curva design for your dining table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 48” W x 168” L, dining height (twelve seats)

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 25,5”. In this case, we can use the 602 Curva design for your table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 16,5” W x 70” L, console height

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 15”. In this case, we can use the 602 Curva design for your console table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 30" diameter round table (two seats)

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 16,26”. In this case, we can use the 311 design (small size) for your round table.

For a 1-1/2” thick top, 50" diameter round table (four seats)

To maintain stability, the table legs should have a minimum width of 21,32”. In this case, we can use the 311 design for your round table.

Please note that these are general guidelines and the actual dimensions may vary based on the specific design and style of the table legs and bases. For the most accurate information, it’s always best to consult a professional or the manufacturer.

How To Get Your Free 3D Visualizations

Flowyline Design offers a complimentary 3D drawing service to visualize the compatibility of your tabletop with our designs. To avail of your free 3D visualizations, simply follow the steps below:

1. Select a tabletop that suits your daily needs.
2. Browse through our website and choose your preferred design. Make a note of the model you wish to purchase.
3. Reach out to our Customer Service team via any social media platform (Website, Facebook, Instagram, Etsy, etc.) and provide the information from steps 1 and 2.

If you’re unsure which design suits your tabletop, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re available at any time to assist you in finding the perfect leg/base design to enhance your living space.