How To Make A Small Outdoor Table

A small outdoor table is a great addition to any backyard, patio, or balcony. It's the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, read a book in the afternoon, or have dinner with friends in the evening. Best of all, it's easy and inexpensive to make your own.

Materials you'll need:

- 1x4 cedar boards (4 feet long) - 1x6 cedar boards (6 feet long) - Wood glue - 1-1/4 inch wood screws - Sandpaper - Stain or paint (optional)

Tools you'll need:

- Circular saw - Miter saw - Drill - Countersink bit - Sander - Paintbrush or staining pad

Instructions:

1. Cut the boards to length. For the tabletop, you'll need four 1x4 boards that are 4 feet long. For the base, you'll need four 1x6 boards that are 6 feet long.

2. Assemble the tabletop. Apply wood glue to the edges of the 1x4 boards, then clamp them together. Drive 1-1/4 inch wood screws through the boards, countersinking the screws so that they're flush with the surface. Sand the tabletop smooth.

3. Assemble the base. Apply wood glue to the edges of the 1x6 boards, then clamp them together. Drive 1-1/4 inch wood screws through the boards, countersinking the screws so that they're flush with the surface. Sand the base smooth.

4. Attach the tabletop to the base. Apply wood glue to the top of the base, then center the tabletop on the base and attach it with 1-1/4 inch wood screws. Countersink the screws so that they're flush with the surface.

5. Sand and finish the table. Sand the entire table smooth, then apply stain or paint if desired. Allow the finish to dry completely before using the table.

Tips:

- Use cedar or other rot-resistant wood for your table. This will help it to last longer outdoors. - If you're using treated lumber, be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting and sanding it. - Countersink the screws so that they're flush with the surface of the wood. This will help to prevent the screws from rusting and will give your table a more finished look. - Apply a stain or sealant to your table to protect it from the elements.

With a little time and effort, you can easily build your own small outdoor table. Enjoy your new outdoor space!