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How to build a picnic table

Picnic bench with an umbrella in the backyard on a sunny day

Overview

A picnic table is a must-have for family fun, backyard barbecues, or simply enjoying a meal with friends. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a durable outdoor picnic table of your own. 

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Steps

1Cut four legs

To create the legs for your picnic table, use two pieces of 90 x 45 timber. Make matching 45-degree cuts on both ends of each piece to ensure a precise and seamless fit. Carefully cut them into four equal lengths of 975mm (measured from the long point to the short one). 
Using a power tool to cut leg cross-rails and braces

2Cut seat supports for table and bench seats

Cut the supports for the legs and tabletop. The bottom support, where the bench seats will attach, should measure 1530mm, while the tabletop support should measure 750mm. To achieve a clean and concealed look, make a 45-degree cut on the bottom third of each end of these timbers. 

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Remember - you will need two of each support.
Cutting seat supports for table and bench seats

3Attach the legs to supports

Attach the table and benchtop supports to the picnic table legs. Start by creating a ‘V’ formation with the legs, ensuring the 45-degree cuts on the top align. The tabletop support should sit flush at the meeting points of the legs.  

To determine the centre point, measure each side and mark a point 560mm up from the base's long point along the leg. Align the seat support between the legs at these marked points. Once you have determined the correct placements, use a countersink bit to pre-drill the holes and then securely screw the supports into place. 
Attaching picnic table legs to the picnic table

4Cut the bench and tabletop planks

Prepare the planks for the bench seats and tabletop by cutting them to 1800mm. You will need five planks for the tabletop and two lengths for each bench seat. We’ve opted for 140x45 timber planks for both the table and bench seats. 
Measuring and marking bench seat table top plank

5Cut leg cross-rails and braces

To provide additional support for the table legs, you'll need to create a cross-rail. Start by cutting a cross-rail from your 90x45 timber, measuring 1180mm in length, slightly shorter than the tabletop. Next, cut two small braces with opposing angles, measuring 275mm from short point to short point. These braces will further reinforce the stability of the picnic table. 
Assembling cross rail on the picnic bench using a drill

6Cut and attach the braces

Secure one end of the cross-rail to the seat support. Stand the structure up and ensure both sides are symmetrical before securing the other end of the cross-rail to the other leg frame. Mark the 45-degree overlap and trim as needed for a precise fit.  
Picnic table timber brace section

7Cut an umbrella hole

Measure the diameter of your umbrella pole and add 10mm to this. This will be the diameter of the hole to cut on your bench top. Mark it out with a pencil. Using a saw, drill the hole in the tabletop and cross-rail of your table.  
Using a power tool to cut an umbrella hole in the picnic table

8Drill holes for the bolts

Next, pre-drill holes the same diameter of the bolt at the bottom of each cross-rail and leg. 
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Don’t attach the bolts until after you apply your paint or stain.
Hammering bolts in the bottom of each cross-rail and leg

9Paint or stain your picnic table

Paint or stain your picnic table to achieve your desired look. We’re using a timber stain to give it a rich, sleek look. Once dry, attach the bolts. 
Using a paintbrush to stain the wooden picnic table
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.