Modern Kid's Picnic Table and Benches

Step 1

Legs. Cut your legs so that the ends are mitered at 45 degrees, and the short point to long point measurements are 20 1/2″ as shown above. Then mark all four of the legs as shown on the blue leg above. Use the marks to guide you as you fasten with glue and 1 1/4″ screws the two legs together. To hide your screw holes, fasten from the insides of the legs.

Step 2

Fill in the Legs. Measure and cut the remaining leg pieces, shown in blue above, to fit the missing pieces on the legs. Use glue and 1 1/4″ screws to fasten together. Hide your screw holes on the inside.

Step 3

Top. Begin by fastening with glue and 2 1/2″ screws the ends (shown in blue above) to the tabletop boards. Leave a 1/2″ gap between the boards. Then attach the ends to the legs using 2 1/2″ screws. You will notice in this table’s design there is good water drainage and no pockets for water to remain and cause damage.

Step 4

Bench Legs. Build your bench legs as you built your table legs in step 1. Use 1 1/4″ screws and glue on this step.

Step 5

Step 6

Bench Seats. As you built the tabletop, do the same for the bench seats.

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.