How to Build a Hardwood Picnic Table

Your little ones will love this adorable free standing kid's picnic table. Perfect for eating, coloring, doing homework, reading, socializing or playing fun games.

Ipe is beloved for its beauty and superior strength qualities. Unlike plastic or metal tables, Ipe is highly resistant to temperature changes which helps it stay at a comfortable temperature on even the hottest summer days.

Material List

TABLE
Part	Quantity	Dimensions
Legs	4	2" x 2" x 21"
Aprons	2	1" x 4" x 16"
Long Aprons	2	1" x 4" x 32"
Stretcher	2	1" x 4" x 16"
Stretcher (Legs)	1	2" x 2" x 32 ½"
Table Top	3	1" x 4" x 40"
Table Top	2	1" x 6" x 40"

BENCH
Part	Quantity	Dimensions
End Planks	2	5/4" x 8" x 12"
Brace	1	1" x 4" x 32"
Seat Board	1	5/4" x 8" x 40"

TO ORDER:
Lumber	Quantity	Order
1" x 4"	4	4 feet
1" x 6"	2	4 feet
2" x 2"	2	4 feet
5/4" x 8"	1	6 feet
2" Pocket Hole Screws		100

Tools

Miter saw
Hammer
Drill
Drill bit
Pencil
Tape measure
Screwdriver
Carpenter's square
Safety glasses
Sander
Pocket hole jig kit
Stainless steel screws

Step 1

Cut four lengths of 2x2 at 21 inches each for the legs. Also cut four lengths of 1x6 at 16 inches for the aprons and stretchers.

Where to Drill the Pocket Holes?

Long Apron: 1x4x32. From the end measure 4", 10", and 16". Do the same from the other end as well.

Short Aprons: 1x4x16. These are the ones on top. Go to step 3 for more details where to drill pocket holes.

Stretcher: Drill two pocket holes on the sides.

Lay the four parts (2 legs, 1 apron, and 1 stretcher) on the work table. Place a 1x4 scrap under the stretcher and apron to make sure they are not flush with the legs.

The bottom stretcher should be placed 4 inches from the bottom of the legs. Use clamps to hold the parts together, and drill them into place.

1. Making the table base.

Step 2

Use the two 1x4x40 aprons to connect the two table ends. Drill pocket holes into the aprons at 6", 12", and 16" from either end, and two holes at each end to connect the legs.

2. Forming the base.

Step 3

The table top is made of 1x6's and 1x4's. Decide which surface looks best and use that as the top.

Lay the table top pieces top-down on the workbench, with the two 1x6's on the outside and the 1x4's in the middle. Flip the table base upside down and place it on the table top. Mark the positions for the pocket holes screws, fasten the parts into place.

Finally, attach the 2x2x32 stretcher to the bottom of the base to act as a footrest.

Step 4

The two end pieces for the bench can be cut into any pleasing design, as long as it remains sturdy enough. Connect the end pieces using the 1x4x32 brace. You can either drill pocket holes of just install screws from the outside.

Step 5

Flip the assembly over and attach the 5/4x8 seat board to the braces.

5. The bench.

Enjoy your new picnic table!

6. The final product. Click the arrows for a 360° view.

Picnic Table