Creating a wooden craft table with fold-out wings is a practical and versatile woodworking project. The fold-out wings allow for extra workspace when needed and can be easily tucked away to save space when not in use. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build your own:
Materials Needed:
- Wood (e.g., plywood or solid hardwood, depending on preference)
- For the main table: 2 sheets of ¾” plywood (dimensions will depend on the desired size of your table).
- For the fold-out wings: 2 pieces of ¾” plywood or MDF (dimensions to match your desired wing size).
- Wood screws (1 ½” screws)
- Hinges (strong, heavy-duty hinges for the wings)
- Table legs (can be wooden or metal, depending on style and preference)
- Wood glue
- Wood filler (optional)
- Sandpaper
- Finish (paint, stain, or polyurethane)
Tools Needed:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Carpenter’s square
- Clamps
- Sanding block or electric sander
Instructions:
1. Design and Measure
- Decide the dimensions for your craft table. A typical craft table can be around 36” in height and anywhere from 48” to 60” wide.
- Plan the fold-out wings to be about 12”-18” wide on each side, depending on how much extra workspace you need.
2. Cut the Main Table Surface
- Cut the main tabletop piece from the plywood to your desired size.
- If you have a large tabletop and two wings, this will be a large piece. Cut it in two parts if necessary.
3. Cut the Fold-Out Wings
- Cut two rectangular pieces of plywood or MDF to form the fold-out wings. Each piece should be slightly smaller than half the width of the tabletop to ensure they fold out and align with the main surface when extended.
- Sand the edges smooth after cutting.
4. Attach Hinges to the Wings
- Mark the centerline of the fold-out wings and the corresponding spots on the table where the wings will attach.
- Attach the hinges to the underside of the tabletop and the fold-out wings. Make sure the hinges are strong enough to support the weight of the wings and can hold them securely when extended.
- Space the hinges evenly across the width of the wings for balanced support.
5. Prepare the Table Legs
- Attach four legs to the corners of the tabletop. You can use pre-made wooden or metal table legs, or you can make your own from the same plywood.
- Secure the legs with screws and wood glue. Make sure they are positioned squarely so the table is stable.
6. Add Support for the Wings
- When the wings are folded out, they will need support to keep them level. You can add a support bar underneath the table that folds out to support the wings when they’re extended.
- Alternatively, you can use collapsible brackets or folding supports that lock in place when the wings are extended and fold away when the wings are not in use.
7. Finish and Sanding
- Sand all surfaces of the table and wings until smooth.
- Apply wood filler to any visible gaps or screw holes, and then sand again once the filler has dried.
- Once smooth, you can apply a finish of your choice, such as paint, stain, or clear polyurethane, to protect the wood and enhance its appearance.
8. Final Assembly
- Once the finish is dry, attach the fold-out wings to the table using the hinges.
- Test the wings by folding them in and out to ensure they move smoothly and are properly supported.
Tips:
- Stability: Ensure the fold-out wings are securely fastened, as they may carry additional weight when used for craft projects.
- Customization: Consider adding drawers or small storage compartments underneath the tabletop to store craft supplies.
- Portability: If you want a more portable table, you can add locking caster wheels to the bottom of the legs for easy mobility.
By following these steps, you can create a functional and customizable wooden craft table that meets your specific needs. Enjoy your new workspace!