Folding Picnic Table Bench Plans Patio Furniture
Summer is just around the corner, and that means it's time to start planning all of your outdoor gatherings. Whether you're hosting a family BBQ, a picnic in the park, or just enjoying a lazy afternoon in your backyard, having the right patio furniture is essential. One of the most versatile and practical pieces you can add to your outdoor space is a folding picnic table bench. Not only does it provide ample seating for your guests, but it can also be easily stored away when not in use. In this article, we'll provide you with everything you need to know to build your own folding picnic table bench, from materials and tools to step-by-step instructions.
Materials Needed
The first step in building your own folding picnic table bench is gathering all of the necessary materials. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- 2x4 lumber (8 feet long)
- 2x6 lumber (8 feet long)
- 1x6 lumber (8 feet long)
- 2 1/2 inch deck screws
- 1 1/4 inch deck screws
- Wood glue
- Waterproof wood sealer
- Sandpaper
Tools Needed
In addition to the materials listed above, you'll also need the following tools:
- Miter saw
- Table saw
- Drill
- Driver bit
- Countersink bit
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Square
- Sander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut the Wood
The first step in building your folding picnic table bench is to cut the wood to the appropriate lengths. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 pieces of 2x4 lumber at 29 inches long (table legs)
- 4 pieces of 2x4 lumber at 52 inches long (table supports)
- 2 pieces of 2x6 lumber at 72 inches long (table top)
- 2 pieces of 1x6 lumber at 72 inches long (bench seats)
- 4 pieces of 2x4 lumber at 72 inches long (bench supports)
Step 2: Build the Table Frame
Next, you'll build the frame of the table. Follow these steps:
- Take two of the 29-inch 2x4s and two of the 52-inch 2x4s and build a rectangle frame. Use wood glue and 2 1/2 inch deck screws to attach the pieces together.
- Repeat step 1 to create a second rectangle frame.
- Attach the two rectangle frames together using the remaining 52-inch 2x4s. These will act as cross braces to hold the table legs together. Use wood glue and 2 1/2 inch deck screws to attach the pieces together.
Step 3: Build the Table Top
Now it's time to build the table top. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Place the two 72-inch 2x6s side by side on a flat surface. Use wood glue and 1 1/4 inch deck screws to attach the two pieces together.
- Flip the table top over and attach it to the frame using 2 1/2 inch deck screws. Make sure the table top is centered on the frame.
Step 4: Build the Bench Seats
Now it's time to build the bench seats. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Take two of the 72-inch 2x4s and two of the 72-inch 1x6s and build a rectangle frame. Use wood glue and 2 1/2 inch deck screws to attach the pieces together.
- Repeat step 1 to create a second rectangle frame.
- Attach the two rectangle frames together using the remaining 72-inch 2x4s. These will act as cross braces to hold the bench supports together. Use wood glue and 2 1/2 inch deck screws to attach the pieces together.
Step 5: Attach the Bench Seats
Finally, it's time to attach the bench seats to the table frame. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Flip the bench frame over and attach it to the table frame using 2 1/2 inch deck screws. Make sure the bench frame is centered on the table frame.
- Flip the bench seats over and attach them to the bench frame using 2 1/2 inch deck screws.
Finishing Touches
Once you've completed the construction of your folding picnic table bench, it's time to add some finishing touches. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Sand all of the rough edges to create a smooth finish.
- Apply a waterproof wood sealer to protect the wood from the elements.
Conclusion
Building your own folding picnic table bench is a great DIY project for anyone looking to add some practical and versatile patio furniture to their outdoor space. With the right materials, tools, and step-by-step instructions, you'll have a beautiful and functional piece of furniture that you can enjoy for years to come.