This instructable is for a large diy wooden picnic table which is easy to step in.
The picnic table in the construction pictures is one without the corners under 45 degrees like in the first picture.
It is made completely of two by fours (89x38)
The picnic table in the construction pictures is one without the corners under 45 degrees like in the first picture.
It is made completely of two by fours (89x38)
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Signing UpStep 1: The two benches
I used some m8 threaded rods to connect the leg constructions.
In total is have used 24 each 16 cm and have cut them when the table was ready.
Some coach bolt will even look better.
For the other connections i used wood screws of 80mm.
Click on "i" in the upper left corner of the pictures and than choose original file for a larger version of the picture.
A google sketchup version can be downloaded here
In total is have used 24 each 16 cm and have cut them when the table was ready.
Some coach bolt will even look better.
For the other connections i used wood screws of 80mm.
Click on "i" in the upper left corner of the pictures and than choose original file for a larger version of the picture.
A google sketchup version can be downloaded here
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I would consider using a single 2 X 6 for the seat supports to replace the 2ea 2 X 4's used here. No, on second thought, I like your dual 2X 4's it is more appealing!
Have fun building it.
Maybe after a few years or earlier when you use it a lot there might be some sway.
But tightening the bolts will fix that.
And you could put some screws next to the bolts .
Thank you for sharing!
Great to see some pics of another one.
Good job .
I used cls (canadian lumber standard) two by fours (89mmx38mm).
The total lenth is about 46 meters .
other than that GREAT JOB!!
Nice Sketchup work
And than click on "original file" you will get a clearer version.
Great looking table!
KomaToast: Could you built it with the benches to slip out like
GrumpyOldGoat suggests, but maybe make the tables legs
'slide' [?] down to a collapsable...?
I've been awake going on 28 hours, so maybe not he best time
to try and figure out changes to a design. :-(
Now I have a challenge for you.
Make it fold up so it will fit in the back of a pick-up truck so you can take it camping.
Redesign the end base pieces so that instead of bolting through the legs, the legs slide into slots.
Create deeper pockets for the legs by adding another 2X4 on each side of the pockets for added stability, but make sure that you do not add height to the 'step thru' sections.
That way you can lift the benches and table clear of the bases sections, fold everything up and toss it in the truck.
And now, unless you add a stretcher close to the mid point on the legs, you WILL have a stability problem.
Quick and dirty enough for you? :=}
It would fit in the back of the truck on top of all the camping gear and keep things in place and not blow out on the road.
It was made with 1x4's much like you described.
Even with the top of the bench firmly against the ends of the legs, there is likely to be some play after a time. Unless I am missing something i would suggest a few deck screws as well as the bolts to prevent this.
Eventualy there is gonne be some play ,but no sooner than on a original picnic table i think.
The difference is that with a traditional picnic table the legs form an X two triangles, extremely stable.
In your design the legs form a rectangle, so without extra bracing the four bolts will act as a pivot.
I only say this because in your drawing it appears the stretcher between the leg sets butts against the cross piece. If as pointed out elsewhere the stretcher passes between the legs, that would give greater stability.
That is why i suggested a few decks screws next to the bolts, they would help stop the possibility of pivoting. Otherwise a very handsome design, looks excellent.
Great general design...will definitely use :)
Thanx a million in advance.
And than click on "original file" you will get a clearer version.
I'd love to see some pics ,if you plan to make one.
What program did you use to design it? It looks very helpful
Rob