A crawfish table is an essential piece of outdoor furniture for those who love to host large gatherings in the summer. A crawfish table provides a sturdy, easy-to-clean surface that makes it easier to cook and serve a variety of food. Building your crawfish table can be rewarding, as it allows you to customize the size, shape, and style to match your needs. Additionally, making a crawfish table gives you the opportunity to choose from quality materials that will last for years.
Making your own crawfish table has a number of advantages. For starters, you can customize it to fit the size and shape of your space. You can also select the type of wood or other materials to use in order to match the aesthetic of your home or backyard. Additionally, making your own table allows you to choose how many guests you can comfortably host, ensuring that you won’t be overwhelmed by a large group. In this blog post, You will learn in detail how to make a crawfish table.
Materials You Will Need
Crawfish Table Frame:
First, you need to collect the materials required to build a crawfish table. The most important item you will need is a sturdy frame for your table. For this, you can use scrap wood or purchase a pre-made frame from your local hardware store. Other necessary items include screws, wood glue, and a drill.
Table or Portable Table (Preferably Plastic) :
Next, you will need a table to use as the main surface for your crawfish table. A plastic folding table is recommended as it is lightweight, easy to clean, and can withstand outdoor conditions. You can also use a pre-made portable crawfish table if desired.
Trash Bags to Line the Table:
Lining your table with trash bags will make it easier to clean after cooking and serving crawfish. Make sure the trash bags are large enough to cover the entire surface of the table.
Boiling Pot:
A boiling pot is an essential tool for cooking crawfish. Make sure you choose a pot that is large enough to hold your desired amount of crawfish and has a sturdy, heat-resistant handle.
Strainer or Colander:
After boiling the crawfish, you will need to strain them before serving. A strainer or colander with small holes is best for this task.
Pliers/Crab Cracker:
Crawfish have a hard shell that needs to be cracked open before eating. Pliers or crab crackers are necessary for this step.
Old Newspaper for Dumping Peels and Spices:
Eating crawfish is a messy activity, so it’s important to have an old newspaper or butcher paper on hand to dump peels and spices onto. This will make clean-up much easier.
Seafood Seasoning (Cajun or Zatarain’s) and Lemons:
To add flavor to your crawfish, you will need seafood seasoning. Cajun or Zatarain’s are popular options. Sliced lemons can also be used to add a tangy twist to the dish.
Ice and Water (for Keeping the Crawfish Fresh) :
Lastly, you will need ice and water to keep the crawfish fresh before cooking. It’s important to keep them in a cool place until they are ready to be boiled.
Knives, Forks, Bibs, and Wet Napkins for Eating:
To fully enjoy the crawfish experience, it’s important to have all the necessary utensils and tools on hand. Knives and forks can be used to open up the crawfish shells, bibs will protect clothing from getting dirty, and wet napkins are useful for cleaning hands after eating.
10 Step-by-Step Processes for How to Make a Crawfish Table
Step 1: Inspect the Wooden Board
Choose the right kind of wooden board for the crawfish table. Measure the length and width of your desired crawfish table. Inspect its surface for any signs of damage or warping, as this can impede its use in the future. You can also sand down any rough edges to ensure a smooth surface for cooking and serving. It’s essential to choose quality, durable wood for your crawfish table as it will be exposed to outdoor conditions.
Step 2: Cut Notches on the Board
Cut two notches on the board using a jigsaw or circular saw – one at each end. The notches should be just wide enough to fit a standard crawfish trap, so measure carefully before making any cuts. After cutting your notches on the board, use sandpaper to even out any rough edges or splinters. Once done, apply a coat of sealant or varnish to the board and stain it with your chosen color. The sealant will protect the wood from water and other outdoor elements.
Step 3: Drill Holes for the Traps
Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the size of your traps, make four holes on each end of the board – two for each trap. Make sure these holes are drilled in the same direction and at the same depth. With all the holes drilled, place your traps in the notches you made earlier. Ensure they are firmly secured and there is no wobble when you move them around. If necessary, use wood glue or screws to secure the traps in place. You can also use clamps to keep them in place while the glue dries.
Step 4: Drill Holes for Legs
After securing the traps in place, drill four holes along each side of the board – two at the top and two at the bottom. These will be used to attach legs to the board. Now, it’s time to attach your legs. Using wood screws, attach the legs securely into place – making sure they are firmly attached and at the same height. It’s important to use sturdy legs that can withstand the weight of the crawfish table and its contents.
Step 5: Line Inside of Traps with Mesh
Line the inside of your traps with mesh to prevent crawfish from escaping. This can be purchased at any fishing or hardware store. With the mesh in place, fill each trap with water until they are about halfway full. This will keep the crawfish alive and allow them to move around without escaping. It’s important to check the water level regularly and refill as needed. You can also add a few drops of bleach to the water to keep it clean.
Step 6: Add Bait
Finally, add some crayfish bait into each trap. This can be purchased at any tackle shop or fishing store. After adding the bait, set your traps out in a body of water where there are crawfish. You’ll be catching crawfish in no time. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make a durable and reliable crawfish table that will last for many years. So get started today and enjoy catching some delicious crawfish in your own backyard. It’s important to regularly check and empty the traps, as well as replenish the bait, to continue catching crawfish.
Step 7: Set Up Plastic Table
Set up your plastic table or portable crawfish table in the desired location. Make sure it is on a sturdy and level surface. Otherwise, your crawfish boil could quickly turn into a disaster if the table does not have a built-in compartment for ice and water. Place bowls or trays filled with ice and water on each end of the table. You can also add a plastic tablecloth to protect the surface and make clean-up easier.
Step 8: Line Table With Trash Bags
Line the entire surface of the table with trash bags, making sure they are securely taped down to prevent any leaks. Although eating crawfish is a messy experience, this will make clean-up much easier. You can also use old newspaper or butcher paper to cover the table. It’s important to have a designated area for dumping peels and spices, so make sure to leave some space on one end of the table for this purpose.
Step 9: Fill the Boiling Pot with Water and Seasoning
Fill your boiling pot with water and seafood seasoning of your choice. Bring the water to a boil. It’s important to use a large enough pot to fit all the crawfish and other ingredients you’ll be adding. You can also add sliced lemons, garlic, and other spices for added flavor. This step can be done while the crawfish traps are out in the water, so everything is ready to go once they are caught.
Step 10: Add Crawfish to Pot
Add crawfish to the boiling water and let them cook for about 10 minutes or until they turn bright red. Use a strainer or colander to remove the crawfish from the pot and place them onto the lined table. Serve with sliced lemons on top and enjoy! Always make sure to handle the crawfish with care, as they can still be alive and may pinch if handled incorrectly.
Following these 10 simple steps on how to make a crawfish table will result in a successful and delicious crawfish boil for you and your guests. Remember to have all necessary utensils, tools, and ingredients on hand to make the experience even better. Happy boiling!
Tips for How to Make a Crawfish Table
- Use the correct tools for preparation. Make sure to use gloves and kitchen scissors when handling live crawfish to ensure your health and that of your food.
- Ensure that all ingredients, especially crawfish, are fresh and from a trusted source. Crawfish can spoil quickly, so make sure to get them as close to preparation time as possible.
- Be aware of all the necessary ingredients and measure them correctly. As with any recipe, not following the directions closely can lead to a disappointing result.
- Ensure your work area is sanitized before and after handling raw seafood items like crawfish to prevent foodborne illnesses or other potential health risks.
- Cook the crawfish thoroughly before serving. Undercooked seafood can make you and your guests sick, so make sure to follow all instructions for cooking times correctly.
- Check your table setup carefully before serving. Make sure that all necessary utensils and ingredients are readily available during the meal so that everyone can help themselves.
- Monitor the temperature of your food and drinks to ensure they are served safely, especially when serving seafood, as any overly warm temperatures can cause spoilage.
Following these tips will help you make a safe and delicious crawfish table for your friends and family.
How Do You Clean and Maintain Your Crawfish Table After Use?
After a successful crawfish boil, you will want to make sure that your crawfish table is properly cleaned and maintained. Start by discarding any leftover food items such as vegetables, spices, or seasonings. Next, drain all of the water from the table and use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the surface of the table. Finally, thoroughly sanitize the table with a mild soap and warm water mixture. Once you’re done, allow the table to air dry before putting it away for storage.
In order to keep your crawfish table in good condition, there are some important maintenance tips to follow. First, your table should be stored in a cool and dry place to avoid the warping or rotting of the wood. Additionally, it’s a good idea to oil or wax the table every few months to protect the wood from humidity and moisture. Finally, make sure that your table is completely dry before storing it so that no mildew or mold can build up on the surface.
How Do You Store Your Crawfish Table for Future Use?
If you plan on using your crawfish table in the future, then you must take proper care and storage of it. Before storing, ensure that the surface is scrubbed clean with soapy water or a mild cleaning agent to remove any residue from cooking. The legs and frame should also be wiped down. Once dry, cover the surface with a tarp or plastic sheeting and secure it tightly. This will protect the table from water damage and other debris that could accumulate.
Additionally, you can store your crawfish table in a dry area such as an attic, garage, or shed to keep it out of the elements. For extra protection, apply furniture wax onto the table’s surface and legs. This will create a barrier between any moisture and the wood and will help to keep it in top condition for years to come.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Crawfish Table?
Building a crawfish table can be quite costly, depending on the materials you choose to use. Plywood and plastic sheeting tend to be the most affordable options for the top of the table, while galvanized steel or concrete are typically used for the legs. You will also need screws and bolts, sealant, paint or stain, and any other hardware that you wish to use in your construction. Additionally, a table cover may be necessary to keep the elements out and preserve the life of your table.
If you have access to power tools, you can likely build a crawfish table for less than $100. However, if you don’t have the equipment or experience necessary to work with wood and metal, you may need to purchase these supplies from a hardware store or hire someone with the necessary skills. Generally speaking, building a crawfish table is an affordable endeavor that can be completed for less than $200. The cost of the materials will depend on your specific design as well as the quality of the materials you choose to use.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Crawfish Table?
Making a crawfish table can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design. If you are starting with pre-made lumber, expect to spend at least an hour cutting it to size, assembling it, and attaching any necessary hardware.
More intricate designs can require more time and effort, especially when it comes to sanding, staining, and painting the finished product. You may also need additional materials such as hinges, screws, and tools for drilling and screwing everything together. After all is said and done, expect to spend several hours or even days making a crawfish table from scratch. Once you have the basics down pat, you can make a table from start to finish in just a few hours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a crawfish table is not as difficult or expensive as one might think. With some basic tools and materials, you can easily build an attractive, sturdy crawfish table for backyard cookouts or other outdoor gatherings. The key components to making a good crawfish table are using quality wood, waterproof glue, proper bracing techniques, and having the right dimensions that are comfortable for you. Once you have the basic structure of the table, adding accessories such as a lid and drain can make it even more functional and enjoyable. I hope this article has been beneficial for learning how to make a crawfish table. Make Sure the precautionary measures are followed chronologically.
