Do you ever find it difficult to keep up with the latest trends in outdoor living? If so, you’re not alone – there’s no denying that creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space can be overwhelming.
But, no matter how much space or resources you have at your disposal, one of the easiest projects that will instantly upgrade any backyard is constructing a folding picnic table.
Easy to store away when not in use yet highly practical for entertaining al fresco, this classic piece of garden furniture never goes out of style.
This tutorial will show you step-by-step instructions on how to make a folding picnic table sturdy and reliable folding picnic table by using affordable materials from any local hardware store. So get creative and start building today – let’s get started!
Necessary Materials
Given below is a comprehensive list of the materials you will need to build a folding picnic table:
- 2x 8ft Long X 4in Wide Boards for the Tabletop and Seating Area
- 4x 4ft Long X 4in Wide Boards for the Legs
- 6 Hinges With Screws
- 2 Bungee Cords
- Wood Screws
- Electric Drill
- Sandpaper
11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Make a Folding Picnic Table
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Make sure you have a clean, clear space to work in before beginning the project. It’s a good idea to lay down some cardboard or tarp to protect the surface you’ll be working on. This will also help to keep sawdust and wood chips from scattering all over.
But, more importantly, it will provide an easy-to-access space while you’re working. It will also be beneficial to have a nearby power outlet if you are using an electric drill.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Boards for the Tabletop
Using a measuring tape, measure out two 8ft long x 4in wide boards for the tabletop. Mark the measurements then use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut along these lines.
You should end up with two boards of equal size. But, if you’re using a jigsaw, be sure to make multiple passes to ensure the boards are completely straight. It’s also important to make sure the boards are cut perfectly in half lengthwise – this will help ensure that your folding picnic table is level.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Boards for the Seating Area
Repeat the same process that you used on the tabletop, but this time use four 4ft long x 4in wide boards to create a seating area. This should amount to eight pieces total when cut in half.
If you’re having trouble cutting the boards into identical pieces, use a piece of scrap wood to act as a guide for your saw blade. This will help to ensure that all the boards are even. But, if you’re still having trouble, have a friend help steady the boards as you make the cuts.
Step 4: Measure and Cut the Boards for the Legs
To make four legs, measure and cut 4ft long x 4in wide boards using the same process as before. You should end up with eight pieces total when cut in half.
It’s important to take your time and be as precise as possible when measuring, cutting, and sanding the boards – this will help ensure that your folding picnic table is sturdy and durable. But, if you stumble at any point during the process, don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Step 5: Sand the Wood
Sand down all of the wood pieces to create a smooth finish and remove any splinters. An electric orbital sander will be most effective in this task, but if you don’t have one, you can use sandpaper instead. It’s also important to wear a dust mask when sanding, as this action can create clouds of sawdust.
This will help keep your lungs safe and the air in your work area clean. However, when you’ve finished sanding, be sure to clean up the area and dispose of the sawdust properly.
Step 6: Assemble the Tabletop
Line up your two 8ft long boards to create the tabletop and secure them together with wood screws. Make sure the screws are long enough to reach all the way through both boards and leave a few inches of play in between so that you can easily adjust the length.
If the length of the boards is not perfectly even, you can easily adjust them by loosening and tightening the screws as necessary. However, be sure that the two boards are always flush with each other before tightening the screws.
Step 7: Assemble the Seating Area
Line up your eight 4ft long boards to create a seating area and secure them together with wood screws, just as you did with the tabletop. It’s important to make sure the boards are all flush with each other and that the screws are tight enough to keep them in place.
If you’re having trouble lining up the boards, use a piece of scrap wood as a guide for your saw blade. This should help to ensure that all eight boards are even. You should end up with a square seating area that’s 8ft wide.
Step 8: Attach the Tabletop and Seating Area Together
Using your six hinges with screws, attach one side of each hinge to the tabletop and one side to the seating area. This will form a ‘piano’ type folding picnic table when opened up.
Although it’s helpful to use a drill for this step, you can also screw them in by hand if necessary. It’s important to make sure the screws are tight enough to keep the table secure. But, if you accidentally over-tighten the screws, don’t worry! You can easily adjust them afterward to make sure that your hinges are not too tight or too loose.
Step 9: Attach the Legs
Now, attach each of the four legs to each corner of the tabletop and seating area. Secure them with wood screws so that they are stable when opened up. It’s important to make sure that each leg is firmly attached and that the screws are tight enough to keep them from wobbling.
If you’re using an electric drill, be careful not to strip the wood or over-tighten the screws. Again, if you accidentally over-tighten the screws, don’t worry – you can easily adjust them later.
Step 10: Attach Bungee Cords
To ensure that your table remains stable and secure when folded, attach two bungee cords between the sides. This will prevent the table from shifting or wobbling when not in use.
You can also use two large zip ties if you prefer. It’s important to make sure that the cords or ties are tight enough to keep the table in place when folded, but not so tight as to damage the wood.
Step 11: Enjoy your Folding Picnic Table!
Once you’ve finished building, all that’s left to do is enjoy your handy work and start planning an al fresco feast! This folding picnic table will be a great addition to any outdoor space and you’ll love the convenience of being able to store it away when not in use.
Always remember to keep your table covered when not in use and store it in a dry place. That way, you can ensure that your folding picnic table is ready for any occasion!
From children’s birthday parties to outdoor movie nights, family BBQs or romantic dinners – this folding picnic table will make those special moments extra special. So get out there and start living life outdoors!
Following these simple guidelines, you can easily make your own folding picnic table and enjoy the convenience of having a stylish piece of outdoor furniture that will stand the test of time. So why wait? Start building today!
How Much It Could Cost?
The cost of building a folding picnic table will depend on the type and quality of material you choose to use. However, with the right tools and materials, you can easily complete the project for less than $50 depending on where you shop.
In most cases, buying your supplies from local hardware stores or online retailers is more economical than getting pre-cut wood from lumber yards. This is because you’ll be able to buy the exact amount you need, and you won’t have to pay for any unnecessary pieces of wood.
So if you’re looking for an affordable outdoor project that will instantly upgrade your backyard, then look no further than building a folding picnic table! With this easy-to-follow tutorial, you’ll be able to create a sturdy and reliable folding picnic table for less than $50. Get creative and start building today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What Materials Are Needed for a Folding Picnic Table?
A. You will need two 8ft long x 4in wide boards for the tabletop and seating area, four 4ft long x 4in wide boards for the legs, six hinges with screws, two bungee cords, a wood screw, an electric drill and sandpaper.
Q. How Long Does it Take to Make a Folding Picnic Table?
A. It should take approximately one hour or less to complete this project, depending on your experience level and access to the necessary materials.
Q. What Are the Benefits of Making My Own Folding Picnic Table?
A. Making your own folding picnic table is a great way to create an affordable, stylish and practical piece of outdoor furniture that can easily be stored away when not in use. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you created it yourself! It’s the perfect project for any level of DIY enthusiast. Plus, it’s a great way to make the most of your outdoor space.
Q. What Are Other Uses for a Folding Picnic Table?
A. Aside from picnics, folding picnic tables are great for camping, outdoor movie nights, family BBQs and so much more! They can also be used as makeshift craft tables or for garden projects in the summer months. Plus, they come in handy during school holidays when extra space is needed for kids’ activities.
No matter how you use it, a folding picnic table will come in handy all year round. So get building and start making the most of your outdoor space!
Conclusion
In conclusion on how to make a folding picnic table, creating a folding picnic table isn’t as hard as it may seem. With these 5 essential steps and our helpful tips for each specific step, you now have all the information to begin crafting your very own folding picnic table!
Folding picnic tables are an excellent addition to any outdoor space because they provide convenience and comfort without taking up too much space when not in use.
Plus, they can add a touch of style and sophistication to your outdoor area. Now that you know how to create a folding picnic table, go ahead and give it a try! We bet you’ll be happily satisfied with the results.
