Matt from 731 Woodworks has created a simple, efficient, and portable folding work table that is perfect for small spaces.
This guide will walk you through the entire process of making your own folding work table, suitable for beginners and seasoned woodworkers alike.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you dive into the construction of your folding table, it’s crucial to gather all necessary materials and tools. Here’s what you will need:
- Plywood (3/4 inch thick)
- Wood glue
- Brad nails
- Hinges (preferably standard door hinges)
- Tools: Miter saw, track saw, brad nailer, clamps
Having everything ready beforehand will streamline the process and minimize delays.
Step 2: Cut the Plywood Strips for the Legs
Start by ripping down your plywood into strips that are 3.5 inches wide. The length of these strips will depend on how tall you want your table. For a standard height of about 34 inches, you will need:
- Four pieces at 33 inches (for the legs)
- Four pieces at 29.5 inches (for the top braces)
Using a miter saw with a stop block will help you make these cuts quickly and accurately.
Step 3: Assemble the Leg Frames
With your leg pieces cut, it’s time to assemble them. Take one of the shorter pieces and place it on top of a longer piece to create a half lap joint.
Apply wood glue to bond the pieces and use brad nails to secure them while the glue dries. If you don’t have a brad nailer, placing weight on the joints will work just as effectively.
Step 4: Create the Back Support
Next, you will need to create a back support structure. Cut a 36-inch piece of plywood and another piece measuring just over 29 inches. Lay these between the two leg assemblies. The 36-inch piece will be attached on top, providing a solid back for your table.
Step 5: Install the Front Legs
Now that the back support is in place, it’s time to lay out the front legs. You will need a small piece measuring 17.75 inches to connect the front legs.
Ensure everything is aligned and square before securing with brad nails. This step is crucial for ensuring the stability of your table.
Step 6: Adjusting for the Hinges
During construction, you may encounter some hiccups. For instance, if the front legs interfere with the hinges when folding, you will need to shorten the apron pieces by about 1.3125 inches. This adjustment ensures that the table can collapse properly without any obstructions.
Step 7: Attaching the Hinges
With the adjustments made, install the hinges on the legs. Use standard door hinges and secure them with three screws. Ensure they are aligned properly to facilitate smooth folding.
Step 8: Creating the Tabletop Hinge
Next, you need to create a hinge point for the tabletop. Cut a block of wood and glue two pieces of plywood together, then set this block in the center of the leg assembly where the tabletop will hinge. This will allow the tabletop to fold flat against the legs.
Step 9: Cut the Tabletop
Now, cut your tabletop to size. A good starting dimension is 42 inches by 20 inches, but feel free to adjust to your preference. The tabletop should overhang the frame by about an inch on all sides for a neat finish.
Step 10: Secure the Tabletop
Attach the tabletop to the hinges using three screws. Ensure it is flush with the back piece and the legs. This will ensure a stable and level surface when the table is in use.
Step 11: Install Leg Stops
To facilitate easy setup, you will need to install stops for the legs. Cut four strips measuring 8 inches by 1 inch from plywood. These will act as stops for the legs to land on when they swing out. Secure them in place with glue and brad nails.
Step 12: Final Touches for Stability
To add stability to the table, consider reinforcing the tabletop. Cut a piece of plywood slightly over 3/4 inches thick and attach it along the front edge of the table. This will help prevent sagging when weight is applied.
Step 13: Folding Mechanism
To fold the table, simply extend it up and bring the legs around to lock into place. This design is perfect for an extra workspace when needed, and it can be easily stored away when not in use.
Step 14: Usage and Considerations
This folding work table is designed for light-duty use. It is ideal for small projects, drying materials, or providing extra workspace in your shop. However, it is not intended for heavy-duty tasks, and caution should be taken not to overload it.
Conclusion
This portable and affordable folding work table proves to be an invaluable asset for anyone working in small spaces. Its multifunctional design allows it to be used not only as a work surface but also as a folding desk for various tasks.
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