Essential Modern Outdoor Square Dining Table–
Looking for a spacious, stylish outdoor table that’s strong, weather-resistant, and fits the whole crew? This DIY square cedar topped dining table comfortably seats up to 8 people, includes a center umbrella hole, and is built using simple tools and off-the-shelf materials. Even better — the plans are totally free, with a step-by-step tutorial, shopping list, cut list, and real build photos to guide you through every step. Photos and Build by Family DIYnamic
Specifications
| Project type | Picnic Tables and Outdoor Dining |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Estimated cost | $150 - $200 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 10 - 5' or 6' cedar fence pickets 5.5" width
- 6 - 2x4x8'
- 1 4x4x10 OR 2 4x4x8' - Can get all the cuts out of a 10' if available
- 2-1/2" exterior pocket hole screws (about 32 screws needed)
- 2" exterior decking screws, about 120 needed
Cut List
- 4 - 4x4 @ 29.5" - legs
- 4 - 2x4 @47.5" (inset 1/2") - aprons
- 4 - 2x4 @ 50.5" - Under Table Supports - Measure to ensure tight fit
- Umbrella opening - 2 - 2x4 @ 10" (measure to fit) and 2 - 2x4 @ 2" (measure to fit, depending on under table support board spacing for umbrella opening)
- 10 cedar fence pickets @ 55" or run long and cut ends after installed, all at once, with a circular saw
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- jigsaw
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
On all of the 2x4 cut boards (except umbrella stand supports if using) drill two, 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end. Then attach aprons to legs, inset 1/2", as shown in the diagram. Build two identical.
Step 2
Then attach the remaining aprons to the leg sets to create the frame of the table.
Step 3
Measure and cut the inner supports. Drill two pocket holes on each end. Mark placement and attach in place. If adding blocking for umbrella support, add in now at the center of the framing.
Step 4
Adjust the table for square by taking diagonals between opposite corners. If the tablet is square, the diagonals will match. If not square, adjust until diagonals match. Layout the cedar fence pickets and adjust, so that there is an even overhang on all four sides. Attach with 2" screws. Sand the cedar top well, starting with a coarse sandpaper and working down to fine.
Step 5
Additional blocking can be added to the corners like this, so the legs have four (instead of 2) pocket holes into each leg. The corner brace will help keep the table square.
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/essential-modern-outdoor-square-dining-table-free-woodworking-plans