Want to build a DIY picnic table for your porch or backyard? Here are some fantastic ideas and step by step tutorials to inspire you!
Want to be able to eat outside and enjoy beautiful weather? A picnic table makes outdoor dining a lot more convenient and comfortable.
Your yard or deck can really function, at least for part of the year, as an extension of your home. However, you need to set it up with furniture to make it useful and usable. Picnic tables are a great option!
Benefits fo building a DIY picnic table
Whether you don’t have the budget to buy a picnic table or if you just like to build things, a DIY picnic table might be the right option for you.
In addition to saving money, DIY-ing allows you to design a table that exactly fits your space. You can adjust seat heights if you are taller, or make a table extra-long if you have a big family. There are so many possibilities!
DIYing also allows you to add elements that match your personal style, like an X-shaped base for a farmhouse look, or a chunkier leg for more traditional style.
Finally, you can select the finish or material that is right for you. This could mean selecting a certain wood species, or just a stain or paint color that you love!
Types of picnic tables
There are a few different types of picnic tables.
Traditional picnic tables
Traditional picnic tables are tables with built in benches. The table and benches are usually rectangular and parallel to each other.
A typical full size picnic table seats 6 adults – three on each side. For extra seating, pull up two chairs on the ends.
Other shapes of picnic tables
Picnic tables can also be shaped as octagons, squares, and more. The two long benches attached to the table with seat supports is what uniquely makes them picnic tables.
Kids picnic tables
Kid’s picnic tables are obviously smaller and scaled for children. They can be a great option if you have a lot of kids or have kids over a lot.
Just be mindful that if adults can’t sit there, you will need adult seating, too.
Picnic tables are generally easy to build because they are primarily straight cuts .
What type of wood should I used to build a picnic table?
When building a picnic table, be sure to use pressure treated wood or wood that is made to withstand exposure to water and the outdoors. Treated lumber has been treated with chemicals to help keep it from rotting.
Extra features to consider
Want an extra-fancy picnic table? How about adding:
- a built in cooler
- an umbrella holder
- a power outlet
- extra end seats
How much does it cost to build a picnic table?
Treated lumber isn’t cheap, so building a picnic table can get pricey quickly. You can pretty easily build a very basic picnic table for about $100 in lumber, but it can definitely go up in price from there.
Don’t forget to budget for hardware including deck screws and carriage bolts. If you have these on hand already, you can save a little money.
What is the best material for a picnic table?
Assuming you plan to put your picnic table outdoors, you will want to either use a wood that is moisture-resistant or apply an outdoor sealant to help keep out moisture.
This would include:
- Cedar
- Redwood
- Douglas Fir
- Cypress
- Teak
- Pressure treated lumber
Otherwise, moisture can lead to mildew, rot, and the table not lasting for very long in the elements.
Here is my guide to sealing wooden furniture for use outdoors!
Want to buy a picnic table instead?
Given up on the idea of building a picnic table already?
Here are some of the top rated picnic tables on Amazon!
And here are some other picnic tables for sale online!
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DIY Picnic Table Ideas
Today I have rounded up a bunch of fantastic DIY picnic table ideas, with links to blog posts with full step by step tutorials so that you can build your own.
These free picnic table plans are all inclusive! They include materials and cut lists, tools lists, and step by step written instructions. Some even have video tutorials!
I hope that these picnic table plans get you inspired to get building your next DIY project!
DIY Picnic Table Ideas
Want to build a DIY picnic table? Here are several great step by step tutorials from ourselves and other awesome DIY bloggers!
This tiny picnic table is for the squirrels but could also work for dolls or toys. Free printable PDF plans for this easy scrap wood project!
Want to build a picnic table for kids? Here is an easy tutorial for that classic looking table!
I love the modern straight lines of this DIY picnic table!
Like the farmhouse look? You will love this DIY farmhouse picnic table!
How about a picnic on an actual blanket? These mini tables are perfect - kind of like lap desks for a picnic!
I love the unique shape and style of this kid's picnic table!
This kid's picnic table is shaped like a boat and SO CUTE!
Here is another sleek and modern wooden picnic table tutorial!
This is a design for a very traditional, one piece picnic table.
The unique thing about this diy picnic table is that it converts by folding down into two benches with backs. That could be useful if you don't want a bulky table always sitting in your yard!
This picnic table has detached benches, which gives you more flexibility. I also love the border design in the wood on both the bench seats and table top!
Love the reclaimed wood look? Then this is the picnic table for you!
Into pallet wood furniture? Here is a tutorial on how to make a pallet picnic table. Make sure they are safe before eating off of them - many pallets are very filled with chemicals.
Need some shade? Check out this DIY picnic table with a roof!
If you like an industrial look, you will love this picnic table with pipe legs. Be aware - piping can be more expensive than you might think! Price it out in advance if cost is a concern.
I love that this table is wheelchair accessible. If that is a concern for you, this is an excellent option.
If your kids love rainbows, they will go nuts for this table design!
Now this is a high end look! I love the double X's and angled legs on this picnic table and bench set.
This kid's picnic table has curved edges and a really fun and playful shape!
This picnic table is even larger than standard sizes, making it perfect for big families!
I love the chevron wood top on this picnic table design!
Here is another picnic table made from pallet wood, but this tutorial disassembles the pallets prior to building the table!
DIY Kids Picnic Table With a Geometric Painted Top // Love & Renovations
This simple kid's picnic table is made really fun with a geometric paint job on top!
Which one of these DIY picnic tables is your favorite?!
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Hey there, I’m Sean, the woodworking enthusiast and builder behind CharlestonCrafted.com! Since 2012, I’ve been sharing the magic of turning raw materials into beautiful creations. I love teaching others the art and satisfaction of woodworking and DIY. I try to inspire fellow crafters to make something extraordinary out of nothing at all.
Ivory
Thursday 30th of April 2020
Oh my, I feel like a kid in a candy store. How do one choose? I love them all. I do plan to put this post in my, things to do list. Thank you for sharing these beautiful picnic tables.