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Sand and Water Play Table

Build your own sand and water play table. Uses $6 storage bins for tubs. Free easy!

Sand and Water Play Table

Specifications

Project typeKids Tables and Chairs
RoomOutdoor
StyleChildren's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans
DifficultyBeginner Projects
Estimated cost$20 - $50

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Sand and Water Play Table dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 2 - plastic tubs ( we used these, if using different tubs, make sure you adjust the plans)
  • 5 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x6 @ 12 feet long (can cut into 4' and 8' pieces for transport - be careful to place cuts to get all the pieces out of the board)

Recommend screws for attaching if used outdoors without rain cover (wood will swell when it gets wet, and this will push nails out over time. Use #8 exterior rated self tapping screws, 2" and 1-1/4" length. May need to predrill though the 1x3 boards as they do tend to split out.

Cut List

  • 2 - 1x6 @ 43-1/4" - top sides
  • 1 - 1x6 @ 15" - top divider
  • 2 - 1x6 @ 16-1/2" - top ends
  • 2 - 1x3 @ 43-1/4" - shelf sides
  • 2- 1x3 @ 16-1/2" - shelf ends
  • 4 - 1x3 @ 24" - legs
  • 12 - 1x3 @ 16-1/2" - shelf slats

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • sander

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Build the top frame out of the 2x6 boards. Use exterior glue at joints and 2" screws.

Sand and Water Play Table — step 1
2

Step 2

Build shelf frame same as upper frame.

Sand and Water Play Table — step 2
3

Step 3

Place lower frame on level work surface, face down. Attach legs at all four corners. Then position lower frame in place and attach to legs. Use 1-1/4" screws and wood glue.

Sand and Water Play Table — step 3
4

Step 4

Attach bottom slats to shelf with 1-1/4" screws and glue.

Sand and Water Play Table — step 4
5

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/sand-and-water-play-table