How to Build a Picnic Table: What Does Construction Involve?

How to Build a Picnic Table

If you are a fan of picnics (and who isn’t?) then you might have a desire to make your own picnic table. A picnic just is not complete without a sturdy and strong picnic table you can use to seat your family and support the big spread of food you will be grilling. While you can buy a picnic table that has already been constructed, this is not nearly as fun and engaging as making your own. Figuring out how to build a picnic table is also a great way to bond with your friends or family, since it will take more than one person to assemble.

Of course, when it comes down to actually building one, you'll need the plans for the particular size and shape of a table that you want to build. But here is an overview if you are wondering what kind of a job you're in for.

If you want to know what building a picnic table will involve, this article is for you!

Making a picnic table is pretty simple, at least theoretically. All you need is a surface, benches, and support for both. But building a picnic table is a little more involved than nailing together a few pieces of wood. Before you begin on your construction project, it will really help for you to get a plan in mind. There are plenty of places online where you can find pre-drawn construction blueprints and plans for your very own picnic table, no matter what type or style you want. All you will need after you get your hands on a good plan are the right tools.

To build a picnic table, you will have to have the right set of tools. Now, the specific tools you will need will depend on the plan you choose and the design you want. However, there are a few tools that you should always have with you:

- Hammer

- Electric screwdriver

- Power drill

- Tape measure

- Level

- Pair of sawhorses

These tools are good for just about any plan. Other tools – such as miter saws, angles, adhesives, etc. – may be necessary, but this collection of tools will suit you well not just for picnic tables, but for a wide variety of construction projects around your home.

There is a wide variety of materials you can use to construct your picnic table. Finding the right material will depend on your needs and preferences. If you want a classic picnic table that you can truly construct from scratch, then you want to go with wood. One of the best types of wood to use is cedar because it is resilient and aromatic. You can also use other woods such as pine that can be nailed, drilled, and sawed to your heart’s content.

If you do not want to get that hands-on for your table, and would rather put together a pre-fabricated kit, then metal or plastic is the way to go. You can even get picnic table materials made from recycled plastic that are not only very durable, but are also environmentally friendly. Metal and plastic tables are more durable than wood but may not be as comfortable. It is all up to what is important to you in your picnic tab.