How to Make a Round Picnic Table

Picnic tables are often used for outdoor gatherings but the long rectangular shape can separate individuals at one end from interacting with friends or family at the opposite end. Create a more sociable outdoor experience by creating a round picnic table. Round picnic tables are also good for small spaces as they allow people to move more easily than trying to get around a rectangular table with sharp corners. Building a round picnic table is a rather simple task that requires only a few extra steps when compared to creating a standard picnic table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure in 6 inches from each end of one of the 2-inch by 4-inch by 36-inch boards and mark with a pencil. Place the end of one 4-inch by 4-inch by 30-inch board on each of the two marks and attach by driving two 5-inch screws through the 2x4x36 directly into the end of each 4x4x30. You now have two legs attached by a board across the top. Repeat this step with the remaining 2x4x36 and 4x4x30s so you have two pairs of legs.

2

Lay six 36-inch by 2-inch by 6-inch boards side by side horizontally to create a 36-inch by 36-inch square. Measure 6-inches in from the left side of the square and place one pair of legs vertically, cross-board side down so they're sticking up into the air, on the mark and attach to the boards below by driving two 3-inch screws through each point where the leg cross-board intersects with the 2-by-6s below. Repeat on the right side to attach the remaining pair of legs in the same way.

3

Tie one end of a 20-inch string around the center of a pencil and the other end to a screw, using a tape measure to achieve an 18-inch length of string from the pencil to the screw.

4

Set the table on a flat surface, flipping it over so it's upright and resting on its four legs. Drive the screw with string attached two or three turns into the direct center of the table, just enough to secure it in place.

5

Draw a 36-inch diameter circle on top of the table as guided by the string. Carefully pull the pencil to tighten the string and draw the circle evenly around the table. Remove the screw with the string from the surface of the table.

6

Cut along the circular outline with a handsaw, going slowly to avoid cutting off the pattern.

7

Sand the surface and edges of the table with 220-grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish and remove any rough or sharp edges.

8

Wipe excess sand and dust off the table with a damp towel, being careful to remove any build up in cracks and crevices on the surface of the table. Allow to dry completely.

9

Apply a thin layer of polyurethane over every exposed surface on the table using a 6-inch sponge brush. Dip the tip of the brush into the can of polyurethane and apply a thin, consistent layer over the table. Allow the polyurethane to set for two to four hours and then repeat for a second coat. This will create a waterproof finish for the table, which is necessary for outdoor use. Allow table to dry for 24-hours before using.