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Kids Trestle Style Play Table

Build the perfect play table for your littles. Sized perfectly for young children to do activities, play games and schoolwork. We love this trestle table with it's large top, and open shelf on the bottom. It's easy to store craft supplies in the shelf. include step by step diagrams, shopping lists and cut list. Also shown: Four dollar kids chair plans

Kids Trestle Style Play Table

Specifications

Project typeKids Tables and Chairs
RoomKids and Toys
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyBeginner Projects
Estimated cost$20 - $50

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 1 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long - pick a good one!
  • 1 - 1x12 @ 4 feet long
  • 1 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 24" x 48" sheet of 3/4" plywood or other project board measuring at least 24" x 41" (tabletop)

Cut List

  • 4 - 2x4 @ 22" - Both ends cut at 15 degrees off square, ends are parallel
  • 4 - 1x2 @ 11 1/4" (End Cleats)
  • 1 - 1x12 @ 30 1/2" (Shelf)
  • 2 - 1x3 @ 30 1/2" (Shelf Trim)
  • 2 - 2x2 @ 33 1/2" (Top Supports)
  • 1 - 3/4" plywood or other sheet goods @ 24" x 41" (Top)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • nailer
  • sander
  • level
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Carefully lay out your legs as shown above so tops are flush, bottoms are spread to measurements. Mark the top of the cleats 2" on each end and lay on top for a dry fit. Remove, apply glue at joint and replace. Use 2" nails or countersunk screws to attach. Remember to build two legs sets.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 1
2

Step 2

Once your legs are done, it's time to add the shelf cleat. Flip the leg sets over and carefully readjust so legs are positioned as in diagram. Mark the placement of the cleat and dry fit. Remove, apply glue at joint and replace. 2" screw or nails to attach.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 2
3

Step 3

An easy but motivating step. Place the shelf on the shelf cleat and screw or nail down with glue.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 3
4

Step 4

The shelf trim will not just keep items on the shelf, but it will reinforce the side to side structure of the table. Make sure you also screw from the outsides for added strength. Is placed flush to the bottom of the 1x2 shelf cleats under the shelf. You will need a few 3" screws here.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 4
5

Step 5

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 5
6

Step 6

Center the base on the tabletop with project turned upside down. Screw on with 2" screws and glue through tabletop supports.

Kids Trestle Style Play Table — step 6
7

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/kids-trestle-style-play-table