Easiest to Build Picnic Table Plans with Free PDF
This is the easiest plan to build your own picnic table. This includes step by step diagrams, well thought out steps, optimized use of materials and video tutorial. This plan is designed so one person can build a picnic table. with PDF from Click here to download free PDF plan for Easy Build Picnic Table
Specifications
| Project type | Picnic Tables and Outdoor Dining |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 100 - 2-1/2" long self tapping wood screws, star bit, exterior appropriate
- 3 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long (can also be 92-5/8" stud length)
- 7 - 2x6 @ 12 feet long - cut in half for transport, use a circular saw and speed square to make accurate cuts
- 1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
TIP: Apply finish to the boards now, then after assembly, you will just need to touch up a few spots and cut ends.
Cut List
- 12– 2×6 @ 72″ (Tabletop boards, Seat Supports and Seat Boards)
- 2 – 2×2 @ 34-1/4″ (Tabletop Supports)
- 1 - 2x2 @ 29-1/4" (Center Tabletop Support)
- 4 – 2×6 @ 31-3/8″, both ends cut at 25 degrees off square, ends are parallel, long point to short point measurement (legs)
- 2 – 2×4 @ 32-7/8″, both ends cut at 25 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel, long point to short point measurement (Cross Supports)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 61" - under seat supports (not shown in diagrams, goes under seat to support the seat span)
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- circular saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Tabletop
Lay the 2x6 tabletop boards out on a flat level surface. Check to make sure tabletop is square (not a parallelogram) by taking diagonal measurements and adjusting until diagonals match. Attach the two longer 2x2s, 4" from the outside, to the tabletop, with 2-1/2" self tapping screws. The gap between is about 1/4". Attach the shorter 2x2 to the center as shown.
Legs
Cut the legs at 25 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement, ends are parallel. Attach to the 2x2. Correct angle is 25 degrees.
Seat Supports
Flip the picnic table over and make sure it rests level and does not rock. Cut two scrap wood blocks to 11". Set under the seat board and adjust the seat board until the overhangs on the ends are equal. Attach with 4 screws per joint.
Center Cross Supports
Make sure the table is level and legs are plumb. Cut the center cross supports at a bevel, 25 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement, ends are parallel. Attach the first support with screws. The second support will be tricky to attach at the top. For the center attachment, the first cross support will be in the way. Simply drive the screws at an angle to get around the first cross support, into the end of the second cross support. Correct angle is 25 degrees.
Seat Boards
Attach the seat boards to the seat supports with screws. If seats need to be stronger, a 2x4 can be run between the seat stringers, orientated vertically, about 61" long.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/easiest-build-picnic-table-plans-free-pdf