5 DIY Outdoor Table Plans to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Aug 19, 2024

Dine under the stars! Turn your patio, deck, or cottage garden into a refreshing outdoor living space with a DIY table setup. Not only is it convenient and cost-efficient, but it also reflects your personal style.

Top 5 Outdoor Table Plans for Homeowners

Here are five ideas for an ideal outdoor table plan, raging from beginner-friendly to more advanced:

Plan 1: The Simple Slab Table

This DIY table is perfect for beginners:

Materials:

Two pre-built wooden slabs (size depends on your preferred table dimensions)
4x4 treated lumber posts (cut to desired leg height)
Wood screws
Sandpaper
Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions:

Prep the slabs: Sand the surfaces for a smooth finish. Apply stain or paint if desired.
Cut the legs: Ensure all four 4x4 posts are identical in length for a level table.
Attach the legs: Pre-drill holes for secure attachment. Screw the legs firmly into the tabletop.

Plan 2: The Classic Picnic Table

Make great memories with a classic picnic table perfect for family gatherings or parties:

Materials:

2x4 treated lumber boards
Galvanised screws
Saw (circular or mitre saw recommended)
Drill and drill bits
Sandpaper
Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions

Cut the lumber: Use the plan to determine the number and dimensions of pieces needed.
Assemble the tabletop: Create a rectangular frame and attach pre-cut boards for a solid surface.
Build the seats: Construct two identical frames for the benches and attach pre-cut boards for the seat base.
Assemble the legs: Cut and attach them to the tabletop frame using screws.
Connect the benches: Secure the bench frames to the table legs with brackets and screws.
Finishing touches: Sand all surfaces and apply stain or paint.

Plan 3: The Industrial Pipe Table

Make a table with galvanised pipes for an industrial look.

Materials:

Reclaimed wood boards (enough for the desired tabletop size)
Galvanised steel pipes and flanges
Pipe threading tools (optional, pre-threaded pipes available)
Pipe wrench
Wood screws
Sandpaper
Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the wood: Plane and sand the reclaimed wood boards for a smooth surface. If desired, apply stain or paint.
Assemble the tabletop: Join the wood boards with glue and screws to create the desired size.
Thread the pipes (if needed): Use threading tools (or buy pre-threaded pipes).
Attach flanges to wood: Secure the flanges to the underside of the tabletop.
Assemble the base: Connect the threaded pipes and flanges to make the table legs and frame. Use a pipe wrench to tighten connections securely.
Attach the tabletop: Secure the finished tabletop to the pipe frame using appropriate hardware.

Plan 4: The Folding Table

This DIY folding table design maximises functionality without sacrificing style.

Materials:

Treated lumber boards
Heavy-duty hinges
Galvanised or stainless steel hardware (screws, bolts, etc.)
Saw (circular or mitre saw recommended)
Drill and drill bits
Sandpaper
Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions:

Cut the lumber: Determine the number and dimensions of pieces needed for the tabletop, legs, and support braces.
Assemble the tabletop and legs: Create separate frames for the tabletop and legs.
Attach hinges: Secure the tabletop frame to the legs using heavy-duty hinges that allow folding.
Assemble the support braces: Make braces to stabilise the table when folded. Attach them to the legs and tabletop frame.

Finishing touches: Sand all surfaces and apply stain or paint if desired.

Plan 5: A Multi-Level Table with Ottomans

Create a luxurious and versatile outdoor space with a multi-level table and built-in ottomans.

Materials:

Treated lumber boards
Cushions (optional)
Screws and nails
Saw (circular saw or mitre saw recommended)
Drill and drill bits
Sandpaper
Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions:

Cut the lumber: Determine the number and dimensions of pieces needed for the different table levels, ottomans, and support structures.
Assemble the table structure: Construct the framework for the multi-level table, adding the ottomans as part of the base.
Attach the tabletops: Create and secure separate tabletops for each level.
Finishing touches: Sand all surfaces and apply stain or paint if desired. Add outdoor cushions and medium rugs for comfort.