How to Make a Wooden TV Tray Table with Folding Legs
A wooden TV tray table with folding legs is a practical and stylish addition to any home. It’s perfect for dining while watching TV, working on a laptop, or serving guests. This DIY project is simple and requires only basic woodworking skills. Follow this step-by-step guide to build your own sturdy and elegant folding TV tray table.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- ¾-inch hardwood plywood or solid wood (oak, maple, or pine)
- 1×2 or 1×3 hardwood for support braces
- 1-inch wood screws
- 1 ½-inch wood screws
- 2 folding leg hinges (locking or non-locking)
- Wood glue
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper (120-220 grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Clear polyurethane finish
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Miter saw
- Jigsaw
- Power drill and bits
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Wood chisel (optional)
- Router (optional, for decorative edges)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cutting the Wood
- Tabletop: Cut a piece of hardwood plywood or solid wood to your desired tray size (typically 20” x 15” or 24” x 18”).
- Legs: Cut four pieces of 1×2 or 1×3 hardwood to around 25”-28” long (adjust based on your preferred height).
- Cross Braces: Cut two horizontal supports at about 12” each to connect the legs for stability.
- Side Rails: Cut two 1×2 strips to attach underneath the tabletop for reinforcement.
Step 2: Sanding and Preparing the Pieces
- Use 120-grit sandpaper to smooth all cut edges.
- If you want a decorative edge, use a router to round the edges of the tabletop.
- Sand again with 220-grit for a fine finish.
Step 3: Assembling the Tabletop
- Attach the 1×2 side rails underneath the tabletop using wood glue and screws. This prevents warping and adds stability.
- If desired, add a small lip around the edges to prevent items from sliding off.
Step 4: Building the Folding Legs
Create Leg Pairs:
- Take two legs and attach a horizontal cross brace near the middle (about 10” from the bottom) using wood glue and screws.
- Repeat for the second set of legs.
Install Hinges:
- Attach one set of legs to the tabletop using a pair of folding leg hinges.
- Ensure the legs fold inward smoothly.
- Repeat for the second set of legs.
Test the Folding Mechanism:
- Open and close the legs several times to ensure smooth movement.
- If the legs are unstable, consider adding diagonal braces or modifying the hinge placement.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Fill screw holes with wood filler and let dry.
- Sand the entire piece to remove rough spots.
- Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice. Let it dry.
- Seal with two coats of clear polyurethane for durability.
Conclusion
Your DIY wooden TV tray table with folding legs is now ready for use! This project is customizable, allowing you to choose the wood type, finish, and dimensions to match your decor. Whether for meals, work, or leisure, this functional table is a great addition to your home.
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