How to Assemble a Patio Table

Adding a small table to your patio or deck gives your guests a place to set snacks and makes a decorative place for outdoor candles or plants. Patio tables are available commercially in a wide variety of styles. Unfortunately, some are flimsy and don't even last one season. To ensure a stable and lasting patio table, choose a do-it-yourself alternative constructed from hardy pine. This table will add beauty and function to any outdoor living space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Table Top

1

Cut two lengths of 1-by-2-inch pine, each measuring 14 3/4 inches long. These are the long center supports. Cut two more lengths of 1-by-2-inch pine, measuring 13 1/4 inches long, These are the short center supports. Cut eight slats from 1-by-2-inch pine, each measuring 14 3/4 inches long. Set the slats aside for later use.

2

Position the longer supports parallel to each other and 13 1/4 inches apart. Slide the shorter supports in between the longer supports to form a square. Screw through the long center supports and into the ends of the shorter ones to attach the boards together.

3

Arrange the eight slats on top of the center support square, parallel with the short supports. Place the slats evenly across the boards, leaving a 1/4-inch gap between each one. Nail through the ends of the slats and into the long center supports to attach the slats to the table top.

Legs

4

Cut four legs from 2-by-2-inch pine. Each leg should measure 20 inches long.

5

Turn the top of the table upside down on a flat surface. Place one of the table legs inside the support square, facing up. Line up the corners of table leg with the corner of the square so the leg fits perfectly. Slide the leg all the way down until it is touching the table-top slats.

6

Screw the leg to the table top by screwing through the leg and into the center supports. Use at least two screws per leg, adding more as needed.

7

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to install the remaining legs for the table. Flip the table onto the legs. Check to be sure the table top is level. If the top is not level, shave some wood off the bottom of the legs.

Finishing

8

Remove any rough areas with a sander. Pay particular attention to corners and areas around screws.

9

Fill cracks and screw holes in the wood with wood filler. Allow the wood filler to dry completely.

10

Apply two coats of wood stain to the table. This will give the wood a more finished look and help protect it from weather. Allow the stain to dry before using the table.