2 Person Picnic Table
Here's a to build your own two person picnic table! We love this two person picnic table because it is an open design, so its easy to sit at, can be placed flat against a wall, and is perfect for small outdoor spaces. include step by step diagrams, shopping and cut list with reader submitted photos.
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
What you need
- 2 - 2x4 @ 10 feet long
- 4 - 2x6 @ 10 feet long
- 2-1/2" self tappping star bit screws
- exterior wood stain
- Top
- 2 - 2x4 @ 23-1/2" - outer tabletop supports
- 2 - 2x4 @ 26" - inner tabletop supports
- 4 - 2x6 @ 32" - tabletop
- 2 - 2x6 @ 32-7/8" both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends are parallel - back legs
- Seats
- 1 - 2x4 @ 60" - seat back stringer
- 2 - 2x4 @ 24-1/2" - seat supports
- 2 - 2x4 @ 11-1/2" - seat front stringers
- 4 - 2x6 @ 32" - seat boards
- 2 - 2x6 @ 19" - both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends are parallel - front legs
- Support
- 1 - 2x6 @ 21-3/4" - both ends cut at 45 degree bevel, ends not parallel - tabletop support
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- circular saw
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step by step
Build the frame for under the tabletop as shown using 2-1/2" self tapping screws, two per joint.
Optional dogear cuts can be made at the ends as shown to soften corners. Mark with a speed square and cut with a circular saw.
Step 2
Layout the tabletop boards on top of the frame, so the ends are flush to the ends of the outer supports, with 1-1/2" overhangs on sides. Evenly space the gaps between boards. Attach wtih 2-1/2" self tapping screws.
Step 3
Attach legs to the tablet support with 2-1/2" screws, three per joint.
Build the seat frame as shown.
Optional corners can be dogeared, as done with the tabletop supports in step 1.
Step 5
Attach seat boards to the frame, with 2-1/2" self tapping screws.
Step 6
Attach short legs to the seat frame with screws.
Position the tabletop and seat frame together (may need a second person or use a supporting wall).
Check the seat and tabletop for level, and long seat stringer. Adjust if needed. Attach together with 2-1/2" self tapping screws, four per joint.
Step 8
Place the cross support under the table. Screw from sides of tabletop supports into the cross support. Attach from back side of stringer into end of tabletop support.
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.
