DIY Picnic Table Build

Summary

In this DIY guide, the creator demonstrates how to build a classic picnic table with integrated bench seats, a timeless design that’s both functional and durable. Using basic lumber and tools like a circular saw, drill, and screws, the project is broken down step-by-step, covering cutting, assembling, and attaching the parts. Despite a few minor challenges with measurements, the builder shows how to troubleshoot and adjust as needed. The result is a sturdy, beautiful outdoor table perfect for family gatherings, offering a fun and rewarding project for DIY enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The project involves building a classic picnic table with integrated bench seats, a timeless design made from dimensional lumber.
• 😀 The host chose to build the table after struggling to find the right outdoor furniture, emphasizing the personal satisfaction of creating functional pieces.
• 😀 The total material cost for the picnic table build is around $175, which includes lumber (six 2x8s, six 2x6s, and three 2x4s) and hardware (carriage bolts, exterior screws, nuts, and washers).
• 😀 The main tools used in the build include a circular saw, miter saw (for angled cuts), tape measure, speed square, clamps, and a screw gun. The table saw was optional.
• 😀 Mistakes during the build included cutting two supports incorrectly, which was later fixed by ripping down a 2x8 to the correct size, demonstrating the flexibility of DIY projects.
• 😀 The tabletop was assembled by attaching cross supports with screws, with careful spacing of a quarter-inch between each board using a built-in spacer on the square tool.
• 😀 The legs were initially attached using screws, but carriage bolts were added later for additional stability. The host noted the table height was slightly lower than expected (28 inches instead of 30).
• 😀 A key mistake was that the legs were initially too short, but the host planned to increase their length in future builds to achieve a more standard table height.
• 😀 For the bench seats, the center point was measured and aligned with the table's center, with a quarter-inch spacer used between the boards. The angled support beams helped add rigidity.
• 😀 The host showed how to use a miter saw stop block to quickly cut multiple pieces to the same angle, making the process faster and more efficient.
• 😀 The build concludes with the table and benches being assembled and attached using 3-inch screws, with a final check for stability and comfort. Despite some minor adjustments, the table turned out solid and functional.

Q & A

What is the main design of the picnic table discussed in the video?

The picnic table features a classic design with integrated bench seats. It’s made from dimensional lumber and aims to be both functional and durable, lasting for many years.

What materials were used to build the picnic table?

The materials used include 6 two-by-eights, 6 two-by-sixes, and 3 two-by-fours for the frame and seats. Additionally, carriage bolts, exterior screws, and washers were used for assembly.

How much did the materials for the picnic table cost?

The total cost for the lumber and hardware was approximately $175.

What tools were necessary for building the picnic table?

Essential tools for this project included a circular saw, miter saw, table saw (optional), clamps, a screw gun, an impact driver, a drill, and a tape measure.

What mistake did the builder make during the cutting process?

The builder accidentally cut two pieces of lumber needed for the top supports from the wrong section, leading to a shortage. This was fixed by ripping down a longer piece of lumber to make up for the shortage.

Why was a miter saw used in this project?

A miter saw was used for making angled cuts, which helped with the accuracy and speed of cutting, especially when working with the bench seat supports.

What adjustment was made to the height of the picnic table?

The builder initially thought the table would be about 30 inches tall, but after assembly, the table sat at 28 inches. The builder considered making the legs an inch or two longer next time to achieve the desired height.

What technique was used to ensure the bench slats were evenly spaced?

The builder used a built-in quarter-inch spacer on a square tool to ensure that the slats were spaced consistently as they were being attached.

What is the purpose of the carriage bolts in this project?

Carriage bolts were used to securely attach the legs to the table frame, providing extra stability. The square shoulder on the bolts helped to anchor them tightly into the wood.

What was the purpose of adding angled supports to the benches?

The angled supports were added to provide additional rigidity to the benches, preventing them from shifting or becoming unstable over time.