How to build a patio table

This step by step project is about how to build a patio table. Building a wooden table for your patio is easy, provided you follow the instructions and tips. This article features detailed instructions for a wooden table with a simple design that can match almost any style of furniture. After sanding the wooden surface you should apply several coats of paint, in order to protect it from decay.

There are several things you should consider when building a patio table, if you want to get a professional result. Therefore, we recommend you to choose the plans and design that suits your needs and matches the style of the outdoor furniture. In addition, you should adjust the size of the size of the wooden table to your needs, but you can always use the techniques described in this project.

On the other hand, it is essential to use weather-resistant lumber when building the table, especially if you are going to place it outside. Cedar, redwood or pine are great choices, as the wooden components will be durable and will have a beautiful natural finish. Always align the components at both ends and drill pilot holes, before locking them into place with galvanized screws. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Building a patio table

Materials

A – 4 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 26 1/2″ long LEGS
B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 15″ long, 1 piece of 2×4 lumber – 62″ long STRETCHER
C – 2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 72″ long, 5 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 24 1/2″ long FRAME
D – 5 piece of 2×6 lumber – 72″ long SLATS
E – 2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 72″ long, 2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 29″ long TRIMS

1 piece of 4×4 lumber – 10 ft
1 piece of 2×4 lumber – 8 ft
2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 10 ft
5 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 8 ft
2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 10 ft
2 1/2″ screws
1 1/4″ screws
glue, stain
wood filler

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Miter saw, jigsaw
Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
Drill machinery and drill bits

Tips

Apply several coats of wood stain to the wooden components
Fill the holes with wood filler and smooth the surface

Time

One Day

Building the sides of the table

The first step of the project is to build the both sides of the patio table. As you can see in he image, you need to cut the legs at 26 1/2″, out of 4×4 lumber. Cut pocket holes at both ends of the supports and lock them to the posts, by using 2 1/2″ pocket holes. Work on a level surface if you want to get a professional result. In addition, add waterproof glue to enhance the bond of the joints.

Installing the stretcher

Fit the stretcher between the both sides of the table, after plumbing the both sides with a spirit level. Installing the 2×4 stretcher between the both sides of the table will reinforce the structure, provided you use a spirit level to make sure it is horizontal. You could either drill pilot hole trough the supports and insert 3 1/2″ galvanized screws into the stretcher, or drill pocket holes at both ends of the stretcher.

Attaching the tabletop frame

There are several techniques you could use when building the tabletop. In this project we suggest you to build a simple frame, using 2×2 lumber and 2 1/2″ galvanized screws. Drill pilot holes trough the rim components and insert the screws into the perpendicular supports. Make sure the corners are right-angled, by using a carpentry square.

Fit the frame to the top of the of the posts and lock it into place with several 3 1/2″ wood screws. It is essential to check if the surface is perfectly horizontal before inserting the screws. Moreover, add glue to the joints, in order to get a professional result.

Attaching the counter-top

Attach the 2×6 slats on top of the frame, as in the image. After setting the slats into place, we recommend you to attach 1×4 trims to the sides of the table, as to hide the edges and to add character to your woodworking project.

Attaching the slats

If you really want to get e professional result, we recommend you to drill pilot holes trough the frame and to insert 2 1/2″ wood screws into the slats. Add glue before attaching the slats, in order to enhance the rigidity of the tabletop. Don’t leave any gaps between the slats and work with great attention.

How to build a patio table

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood filler and let it to dry out for several hours. Afterwards, smooth the wooden surface with fine-grit sandpaper and vacuum the residues.

Thank you for reading our project about how to build a patio table and we recommend you to check out the rest of the projects. Don’t forget to share our projects with your friends, by using the social media widgets.

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