Building a wooden folding picnic table with attached benches is a great project for any woodworker. It combines functionality with portability, making it an excellent addition to any outdoor setting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building your own folding picnic table with attached benches.
Materials Needed:
- Pressure-treated lumber or cedar for outdoor durability
- 2×6 for the tabletop and bench slats
- 2×4 for the frame and supports
- Wood screws (3-inch and 1.5-inch)
- Wood glue
- Hinges (2 heavy-duty)
- Outdoor wood finish (optional, for weatherproofing)
- Sandpaper (120 grit)
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Drill and bits (for pilot holes)
- Clamps
- Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask)
Step 1: Plan and Measure the Table Dimensions
Before cutting the wood, decide on the dimensions of your picnic table. A standard folding picnic table measures approximately 6 feet long, 30 inches wide, and 29 inches tall when assembled. The attached benches should be the same length as the tabletop.
Step 2: Cut the Lumber
Start by cutting the lumber pieces according to your measurements.
- Tabletop Slats (2×6): Cut five 6-foot-long slats for the tabletop.
- Bench Slats (2×6): Cut two 6-foot-long slats for each bench (total of four slats).
- Legs (2×4): Cut four 29-inch pieces for the legs (two front, two back).
- Frame Supports (2×4): Cut two 5-foot-long pieces for the long sides of the frame, and four 30-inch pieces for the short sides of the frame.
- Cross Braces (2×4): Cut four 18-inch pieces to use as cross braces for extra stability.
Step 3: Assemble the Tabletop
- Lay the five 6-foot-long slats side by side. Make sure there’s a small gap between each slat to allow for wood expansion.
- Use wood glue between the slats and secure them together with 3-inch screws. Drive screws from the top of the slats to avoid visible holes on the tabletop surface.
- Attach two 5-foot-long 2×4 pieces along the sides of the slats to form the frame around the tabletop. These should be positioned so they line up with the edges of the slats, creating a rectangular frame.
Step 4: Build the Table Legs
- Attach the four 29-inch 2×4 legs to the corners of the tabletop using wood screws. Start by drilling pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Attach the legs using 3-inch screws at an angle, securing them into the frame.
- For additional support, use cross braces between the legs at the bottom. Attach the 18-inch cross braces to form an “X” shape on each side of the table legs for stability.
Step 5: Build the Bench Frames
- Take the two 6-foot-long 2×4 slats for each bench and attach them in the same way as the tabletop. Use 3-inch screws to secure the slats together and 2×4 frame pieces for added support.
- For the bench legs, use the same technique as the table legs. Attach the legs to the bench frame using 29-inch pieces of 2×4 and cross braces for extra support.
Step 6: Attach the Hinges for Folding Mechanism
- On the side of the table where the benches will fold, attach two heavy-duty hinges between the tabletop frame and the bench frame.
- Ensure the hinges are positioned at the midpoint of the length of the table. This will allow the benches to fold in half towards the tabletop.
- Test the folding mechanism to ensure it operates smoothly. If needed, adjust the hinges to ensure they provide a tight and secure fold.
Step 7: Attach the Benches to the Table
- Attach the completed benches to the sides of the table using the hinges. Ensure the benches fold up evenly, parallel to the tabletop.
- If desired, install additional locks or latches to keep the benches secure when the table is set up.
Step 8: Sand and Finish
- Sand all surfaces of the table and benches to remove rough edges and splinters. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (80-grit) and finish with a finer grit (120-grit) for a smooth finish.
- Apply a weatherproof wood finish or outdoor sealant to protect the table from the elements, ensuring it lasts for years to come.
Step 9: Final Assembly and Testing
- Once the finish is dry, test the folding functionality of the picnic table. Ensure that the benches fold easily and securely lock in place when in use. If any adjustments are needed, make them before the final use.
Conclusion
This folding wooden picnic table with attached benches is a fantastic DIY project that provides both practicality and style to your outdoor space. The folding mechanism allows for easy storage and portability, while the sturdy construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Enjoy your new picnic table at your next family gathering, BBQ, or picnic!
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