Today, the culture of family outdoor recreation has changed significantly. If earlier young parents with children, leaving for the whole day to relax on the bank of the river, were content with a blanket or bedspread, today it is difficult to imagine a country picnic without a camp table, and even better if a company of vacationers takes with them a set of camping furniture.
Its minimum set is a table and a few chairs, while tables can be the most various designs- starting from tabletops with folding, folding or ending with transforming tables, which take up very little space in the transport position and can be freely transported by public transport.
The industry today produces a significant number of outdoor furniture products that are used for:
- use in the country or garden plot;
- trips out of town for picnics, fishing or simple recreation;
- how handy tool when carrying out repair and construction work;
- purchased as a gift that can be used in any family.
Therefore, when choosing a specific sample, first of all, one should take into account the purpose and preferential use of the product.
In addition, independent production of camping tables is quite popular, the design of which depends entirely on the creative imagination and constructive abilities of the owner.
Design features of camping tables
The dimensions of the camping table are determined by the dimensions of the table top. Based on this feature, they can be divided into:
- products with a solid top;
- models with a folding table top;
- samples with flexible table top.
Criterias of choice
The main parameter by which a camping table is selected is the size or area of the dining plane. At the same time, most tourists choose models with a folding or flexible table top, and summer residents prefer ordinary, non-transformable tables. As a rule, the size of the dining plane for camping specimens does not exceed 140.0 × 80.0 centimeters. Then the folding copies will have in the transport position a size that is two times smaller in length, and the flexible tabletop rolls up into a tube no more than 80.0 centimeters long, the diameter of which mainly depends on the type and width of the profile used.
On a note!
The choice of a product for carrying capacity depends on the intended use. However, any modern models can withstand loads up to 30.0 kilograms without any problems.
As material for legs and frames most widespread found of various kinds aluminum profile... With sufficient strength and rigidity of rolled aluminum, the weight of the entire structure can be significantly reduced. Since aluminum is quite critical to shock loads, outdoor furniture needs careful handling.
For the manufacture of solid and folding tabletops, it is used fiberboard having sufficient strength characteristics... It washes well and is not afraid of exposure to food acids and alkalis. Roller tables have a dining area made of aluminum, profile strips or reinforced polyvinyl chloride.
Important points when choosing camping tables
When buying a product, it is necessary to check the ease of operation of the transformation mechanism, as well as the reliability of fixing all furniture elements in working and transport conditions. For hiking trips and outing on picnics, it is advisable to exclude models with a large number of plastic parts. In addition, the camping table should have as much simple design transformation mechanism. For a summer cottage where camping furniture is in an unfolded (working) condition long time, the design can be any, up to the most exotic - combined products or transformer models.
Video
After watching the video, you will learn how to make a picnic table with your own hands from scrap materials.
A folding table is a convenient and practical thing that is popular among owners small apartments, summer residents, lovers of outdoor activities.
Functionality of folding furniture
There is a wide variety of folding tables - in the photo you can see typical options... Often ready product purchased in specialized stores, it is not difficult to make a table yourself.
In small rooms, furniture is often used that allows you to rationalize free space - it unfolds if a large work surface is required, and is removed in other cases: student desks, tables in the kitchen, in the hall, garage, workshop, etc.
It is convenient to use portable models of tables: they are light, compact, moderately durable. They are made from different materials, each of which has its own strengths and weak sides.
Wood must be protected from water, mold, but it is accessible and well processed, steel is heavy but strong, aluminum is easily damaged, but light.
It should be borne in mind that outdoor operation requires moisture protection. Metal structures should not rust, the materials used should be moisture resistant - an aluminum frame and a plastic tabletop are often found as optimal combination... Plywood, timber, fiberboard are suitable for indoor use.
It is necessary to choose a suitable table by weight, dimensions. If the transportation of things involves the use of a car, then the total weight and shape of the tabletop is not of great importance, the main thing is that everything fits into the trunk of the car.
If you need to fit a folding table into a tourist backpack, the requirements are increased: minimum weight with maximum functionality.
During operation, it is important not to overload the tables - they are usually not designed for the weight of an adult, therefore it is unacceptable to use them as a stand for bulky items.
What table to take for a trip to nature
Inexpensive folding picnic tables are in high demand in stores. They are presented in a wide range. Sold separately and in combination with chairs. The height-adjustable rectangular table top is the most popular option. Manufacturers stipulate a maximum table load, an average range of 20 - 40 kg, for metal structures 2-4 times more.
DIYers, with minimal carpentry skills and appropriate tools, in as soon as possible are able to make an analogue that is not inferior to the purchased table.
Homemade portable table number 1
Materials:
- For countertops: boards, chipboard or thick plywood, size 55cm x 30cm - 2 pcs.
- For legs: wooden beam 69 cm x 4.5 cm x 2 cm - 4 pcs., Additional supports 50 cm x 4.5 cm x 2 cm - 4 pcs., Crossbar 45 cm x 4 cm x 2 cm - 2 pcs.
The model of this folding table is convenient for transportation when folded, it is not difficult to do it yourself. A special feature is the folding mechanism, in which the tabletop splits into two parts.
The leg bar is rounded on one side and connected to the foot supports is not fixed, but movable. To do this, a hole is drilled in the upper part of each future leg for fastening, bolted to the support. The table top is attached to the support with self-tapping screws.
The crossbars are fixed so that they are located at a distance of 15-20 cm from the ground in the unfolded state of the finished table, parallel to it. To increase the overall stability, the lower part of the leg is cut 45 degrees.
Before doing the work, you need to prepare a drawing of the details.
Homemade portable table number 2
The one-piece tabletop is less compact, but it is easier and faster to make such a table compared to the previous version.
The fastening mechanism is simplified - two supports are connected to the table top and one pair of legs. The second pair moves freely, when unfolded it rests against the stopper at the bottom of the working surface.
Most of the folding table models have cross-shaped legs - this is how the maximum strength and stability of the product is achieved.
For this you have to endure some discomfort - sitting at such a structure is not very comfortable.
Another option can be tried in practice, when four supports are located in parallel. The safety factor is then reduced.
Roll table
A compact product is obtained if you use lining for the tabletop, parquet boards or analogs. The size and shape is selected independently in accordance with personal preferences, it is even permissible to make a round table.
The workpieces need not be rigidly connected to each other at the same distance. For this, a strong nylon tape is used. Fixation is carried out using construction stapler or small nails.
It is permissible to temporarily insert small planks into the gaps during work, which will help to ensure the correct distance between the tabletop parts.
In order for the final structure to hold its shape and be strong, a pair of removable beams are placed along the edges, to which the legs are attached.
It is good to use parts of an old collapsible Soviet stool as a support, or prepare a similar one yourself. Round pads are ideal.
To be able to use this table, all that remains is to do through hole in the worktop, removable blocks and fasten everything with bolts.
Outwardly, such a table looks like a stationary one, but is not designed for heavy loads. Disassembled easily coils into a roll, legs and fixing boards do not take up much space - it is convenient to transport and store.
It is easy to find a portable aluminum table on sale, which also folds into a roll, is placed in a protective case during storage.
With a dead weight of 5-7 kg, such models are designed for an average load of 80 kg. They are quite durable, easy to use and have a reliable locking mechanism. For big company going on vacation in nature is a good option.
Compact tables for apartments and cottages
Collapsible furniture is often used in stationary conditions with a lack of space. If the arrival of guests is expected, then the usual seats for dining table not enough, the presence of a foldable is a great solution Problems.
Change in the number of permanent residents in the family with unchanged square meters also makes you think about the embodiment of interesting design solutions in your personal space.
A full-fledged study is a luxury available to everyone in a standard apartment, but to arrange a compact working area is quite real. Multifunctional furniture, for example, transforming tables, often used by schoolchildren and students.
Manufacturers modern furniture offer different models folding tables, the most picky buyer is able to choose the best option for himself.
Before buying, you need to think in advance for what purposes the table is intended for, it will have a minimum useful constantly used area, or it will be stored in a secluded corner when folded.
Most requested square tables that expand to rectangular great mercy. Over the years, book tables have shown reliability and practicality. Sliding system the slider principle also finds its application.
Significantly save room space comfortable models with wings". It is rational to use a kitchen folding table of the "bistro" type for a tiny room. They are laid out according to the principle of an ironing board, they hide when not in use, freeing up useful space.
Many of the listed ideas can be realistically realized independently if there is a desire and suitable materials... For family budget the benefit is obvious - a manufactured product will cost less than a new purchase.
You can implement the most daring ideas that are optimally combined with the interior and the size of the room. Wooden table- the classic version, but you can choose any source material, depending on personal preferences and the amount of planned costs.
Craftsmen are more likely to like to remodel suitable parts. old furniture rather than buying new building materials.
Choose folding tables rationally and do not experience everyday inconveniences at home and in the field.
Photo of a folding table
The need for a table that you can bring to a picnic, and then quickly assemble and disassemble it with your own hands, is great. Making a picnic table with your own hands is not too difficult, and it does not take much time. This skill will come in handy later in life, as the ability to work with wood and knowledge of basic tools are important for comfortable life... It is best to choose a tree for making a table, since this material is light, durable and environmentally friendly if all the stages of its processing have been passed. Working with wood is easier than with plastic, and it is good to master the initial skills of woodworking on such simple household items.
Diagram showing the dimensions of a folding table with removable legs.
Picnic table - varieties
The appearance of picnic tables differs in the shape of the countertops - it is most often rectangular, but there are also models with a round or square, and sometimes curly surface. The legs can be made of steel, aluminum or wood.
Most often, folding picnic tables are rectangular in shape, but there are also round ones.
If the legs are placed parallel, it will be comfortable to sit at such a table, but the structure will become less durable. If the legs are criss-cross, they are very stable, but sitting at such a table is not very comfortable. For uneven surfaces, it is advisable to provide removable legs that could be adjusted in height. When choosing tables of this kind, you need to focus not on appearance and size, but on design features.
For picnics and other nature trips good option the top is made of lacquered plywood, as this material is moisture resistant and will serve for many years. This type of material is one that is easy to clean and does not absorb odors. It is convenient to provide an opening for an awning in the center of the tabletop to make outdoor recreation even more comfortable, but the ratio of the table and the awning should be well thought out so that the entire structure does not tip over from the wind.
Do-it-yourself collapsible table
Made of wood or laminated chipboard tables with parallel legs look very neat. The materials and tools you need to make your own picnic table are common, and you can find them in almost every hardware store... For a folding table you will need:
Drawing with dimensions of a folding rectangular table.
- glued board made of natural wood;
- timber;
- reinforced washers;
- furniture corners;
- furniture hinges;
- wing nuts;
- rivets;
- screws;
- hacksaw;
- electric drill;
- screwdriver or screwdriver;
- pencil or marker.
The picnic table, depending on the functionality, may have different sizes, but one detail is common for all folding tables.
The legs, namely the folding part, must be shorter than its height, otherwise the table will not be able to fold.
You cannot stand with your feet on such tables, as the folding legs can withstand less weight than a permanent one. Having made a table with your own hands, you can then decorate its tabletop with paints or using decoupage.
The procedure for making a table
Diagram of a folding square table.
The acquired timber needs to be cut to the size of the table, legs and crossbars between them will be made from it. You will need 4 identical legs for the legs and 4 identical crossbars that will hold the legs together at the bottom and top. You will also need a cross bar that will prevent the table from folding and skewing its legs.
Pairs of legs are laid out parallel to each other on a table or on a workbench in accordance with the width of the table and the crossbar. Place two crossbars in the upper part of the legs and twist the structure with screws in the corners. The diagonals of the resulting rectangle should be equal - this will provide stability for the picnic table. After checking, the structure is tightened tightly, adding metal corners... The second post is created in a similar way.
The racks made with furniture hinges are attached to the table top. The indentation from the edges is 3-5 cm. Then a keeper tape is attached to the picnic table. It is needed to fix the legs in relation to the table top. The tape on the tabletop is fixed with screws, then, with the racks in a vertical position, the tape is cut at the optimal length. On the stand, the ends are fixed with rivets and in such a way that they can be disconnected at any time.
Folding picnic table
This construction turns out to be quite light, and therefore is used for hiking, gardening and fishing. To get started, cut out the bars, with a prudent margin of diameter. Cutting this kind of material is very convenient with a circular saw. For the countertop, you can choose any material, but lacquered plywood or wood covered with several layers of varnish is preferable. Cuts must be closed edging tape, and the timber prepared for the legs is rounded off with a jigsaw or grinder.
First of all, they start assembling the legs and supports. The legs are crosswise fastened together using a large bolt 3-3.5 cm long.A marker or pencil markings for fastening are applied to the tabletop with inside... Installation of all parts is carried out using self-tapping screws for wood. Parts are numbered, and preliminary assembly takes place, after which the structure is again disassembled and all parts are varnished. After the day for which the varnish should dry, you can do the final assembly.
In the warm season, both children and adults want to stay longer at fresh air... A picnic in nature is not just sports and outdoor games, swimming in ponds and other pleasures. You also need a snack. Today we will discuss how to make a folding picnic table with our own hands. The problem is that they are well equipped throughout necessary furniture there are not so many recreation areas. Therefore, if you do not want to spend money on purchasing a new table, you will have to get down to business.
Types of structures
There are 2 types of hiking tables:
- Suitcase table. It looks like a folding chessboard. The legs are inside the suitcase. If you need to unfold the table, the legs are attached to the table top.
- Table with folding legs. The design is extremely simple: when folded, the legs are retracted under the table top. If necessary, they move apart, and the structure is completely ready.
Important! Each of the options has strengths and weaknesses. For example, making folding picnic furniture with your own hands is easier, operating such products is also easier at times. At the same time, the "suitcase" is more compact, more convenient for transportation. In addition, there is a place for camping utensils, skewers and other accessories necessary for a picnic.
Materials (edit)
What material to choose for self-made designs? Basically, 3 options are possible:
- Metal.
- Wood.
- Plastic.
Home craftsmen say that the easiest way to work with wood. If there is no skill in plumbing, it is better not to take metal. At the same time, one must not forget to treat the tree with a special varnish so that it does not deform, does not lose its attractive appearance and does not warp under the sun's rays or in the rain.
Plastic can be used to make both legs and countertops. But not everyone knows how to work with plastic. But plastic product literally forever: neither ultraviolet radiation, nor corrosion is afraid of it.
Folding picnic table
Consider the easiest do-it-yourself picnic table to make - a wooden one.
Set of tools
These tools are in the arsenal of any home master, not even too experienced:
- Electric jigsaw. If not, you can use a hacksaw for wood or a circular saw.
- Electric drill for drilling holes into which screws are screwed.
- Hammer.
- Phillips screwdriver.
- Building level.
- For marking - a pencil, a square, a ruler.
Important! The listed cutting tools- jigsaw or circular saw - these are tools, work with which is associated with increased danger. Therefore, compliance with safety rules is imperative.
Materials (edit)
For the countertop, you need wood planks with a thickness of 2-4 cm.
Important! You can use not boards, but MDF sheet or chipboard, about a centimeter thick.
You will also need:
- Self-tapping screws.
- Furniture bolts.
- For bolts - wing-type nuts.
- 2 door handles for carrying the product.
- Hooks.
To get started, cut a tabletop of the right size from plywood, chipboard or boards. The further procedure is as follows.
Table frame manufacturing:
- Lay the boards that are intended for the frame on the tabletop. The distance from the frame to the edge of the table top is 20-30 mm.
- Using a jigsaw, cut the boards to the desired size, after checking that the markings correspond to the drawing.
- Draw the outlines of the frame with a pencil and make holes for the screws.
Intermediate bars:
Cut off the stop bars on which the legs of the table will rest in the unfolded state, drill 4 holes in them for the screws.
Important! To avoid knocking the legs when unfolding, place wood underlays between the frame and the stop bars.
Assembling the table top and frame:
- Gather all the elements together, do not forget to fix the wooden supports and stops.
- Connect the tabletop and frame into one structure using screws.
Table legs
Transfer the corresponding drawing to the boards, then cut out the legs. At the point of attachment with the frame, the legs are made rounded, at the bottom they make a cut at an angle of 15-20 degrees. Drill holes for the bolts.
Assembling the structure
- Connect the first 2 legs with a crossbar and secure to the frame with a bolt and wing nut.
- Do the same with the second pair of legs.
- Check the table in action, whether the legs cling to each other when unfolding. Otherwise - process them with emery in the place of friction.
The table is ready! Now it remains to fix the carrying handle and attach hooks for towels or barbecue devices.
Suitcase table
Compared to a folding structure, a little more materials will be required:
- For the countertop - a sheet of chipboard or MDF (can be replaced with ordinary boards).
- Wooden bar. It is useful for assembling the box and table legs.
- Hinges.
- Latches.
- Handle (suitcase or door).
- Self-tapping screws.
- Wing nut bolts.
The furniture manufacturing procedure is as follows:
- Saw 2 halves of the countertop out of MDF or chipboard. It will be foldable.
- Saw off the pieces from the timber according to the dimensions of the frame, in accordance with the drawing. Attach them to the countertop halves on all sides. Two halves - two frames.
- Fasten the 2 halves together using loops.
- Cut 4 equal pieces from the bar that will serve as the table legs. Punch holes for the bolts in them. At the same time, indent so that the legs and frame are freely connected to each other.
- Connect the legs to the frame using bolts and nuts.
- Attach a handle to the frame to carry the table.
- Equip the finished product with two latches so that the "case" does not open when carrying.
A folding picnic table with your own hands is ready!
Important! Before starting work, draw up a drawing in different projections, calculate all the dimensions, make an accurate calculation of the consumption of materials. This will help you avoid mistakes.
Who among us does not like to go fishing with family or friends, on a picnic, barbecue or just to relax in nature.
However, in addition to fishing rods, food, barbecue and tents, at least some kind of camping furniture is needed - it is inconvenient to cook and sit on bare ground.
And the main item needed for a picnic outside the city is a folding table.
Now it can be purchased at any travel or fishing store, but why spend money if you can make a folding table yourself. Let's find out how to do this and what is needed for this.
Design features
If you do not go into details, then you can distinguish two types of camping tables - a table with folding legs and a table-suitcase.
In the first version, when transporting or carrying, the legs are retracted under the table top. Upon arrival, it is enough just to push the legs of the table to place it.
In the second version, the tabletop looks like a suitcase or a chessboard - in the stowed position, the legs lie inside it, but on the spot they must be taken out of the “suitcase”, connected to it and put the table in the right place.
Both types have their advantages. The folding table is easier to make and takes literally a few seconds to set up. At the same time, the suitcase table is more convenient to carry, takes up less space, and, in addition, you can put dishes, skewers and other necessary things in it during transportation.
Wood, plastic or metal?
What material is best for making your own camping folding table?
If ease of creation is most important to you and you do not have a large set of tools or skills in working with plastics and metals, choose wood.
Beams, boards, chipboard, plywood - all this can be used to create a fairly simple folding table.
But a table made of wood, if you do not protect its surface with varnishes and special coatings, will warp under the influence of dampness, sunlight and temperature extremes and lose its attractive appearance.
Both plastic and even metal can be used as material for legs and countertops. But here you may need those tools that can not be found in every home. In addition, working with such materials is more difficult than with the same wood. But tables made of plastic are not subject to corrosion, and those made of metal are very strong and durable.
To make collapsible or folding table, you need a set enough simple tools, which can be found in any home or garage:
- Jigsaw (can be replaced with a circular saw or a hacksaw for wood);
- Electric drill for preparing screw holes;
- Hammer and Phillips screwdriver;
- Tape measure, square, ruler, pencil and level.
Attention! Remember that cutting tools such as a circular saw or a jigsaw - sources of increased danger! Observe everything necessary measures safety at work.
Folding picnic table
To make a simple and strong enough, you need the very minimum of materials and fasteners:
- wooden boards, 20-40 millimeters thick. For the countertop, instead of boards, you can use a sheet of chipboard or plywood, about 10 millimeters thick;
- self-tapping screws, furniture bolts, and for each pair of legs the bolts must be of different lengths, wing nuts for bolts;
- door handles for carrying the table and hooks.
First, cut a tabletop of the required size from boards or a sheet of chipboard. If the tabletop is assembled from several boards - gather them together, lay them down and measure the length and width.
Stages of work
Step 1. Making the frame
Lay the frame boards on the table top, with the frame on each side 2–3 centimeters away from the edge of the table top. Using a jigsaw, cut the boards to the desired size, then re-lay them on the tabletop, check the length and width of the frame according to the drawing. Draw the contours of the frame - use them to make holes in the tabletop for the screws.
Important! In order to accurately maintain the dimensions of the paired parts, connect the boards together with clamps and cut them together with a jigsaw or a hacksaw.
Step 2. Intermediate bars
Cut out the stop bars on which the unfolded table legs will rest, make four holes in them for the screws. To prevent the table legs from colliding with each other when folding, make wooden supports for the second pair of legs, which will be located between the frame and the stop bars.
Step 3. Assembling the frame and table top
Gather the frame elements together, fix the stop bars and wooden substrates, make four holes for the bolts with an electric drill. Use the screws to secure the tabletop and frame together. 
Step 4. Table legs
Trace and saw out the table legs with a jigsaw. In the upper part, where they are fixed to the frame, the legs should be rounded, in the lower part there should be a cut at a slight angle (15–20 degrees). Make holes for the bolts.
Step 5. Assembling the table
Connect the first pair of legs with a crossbar and secure to the frame with a bolt and wing nut. Repeat with the second pair. Check if the legs are catching on each other when unfolding and folding the table. If they get stuck, sand the feet in the place of friction with sandpaper.
Folding table ready. Additionally, you can attach a handle for easy carrying and hooks to hang towels or accessories for kebabs and barbecues.
Table-suitcase
To do camping table- suitcase, you will need large quantity materials and fasteners:
- a sheet of plywood or chipboard for the cover. If they are absent, you can use boards;
- wooden beam for the legs and the box of the table top;
- hinges, door or suitcase handle, two latches;
- furniture bolts and wing nuts;
- self-drilling screws.
Stages of work
Step 1. Take the chipboard sheets, cut out the half of the countertop. Then saw off the required lengths of the frame bars, connect them to the tabletop halves with screws on all sides. Fasten the halves of the countertop together with hinges.
Step 2. Cut off four beams, which will be the legs of our table, make holes in them and in the frame for bolts, while making an indent so that the legs of the table are freely connected to the frame.
Step 3. Connect the legs and frame with furniture bolts and wing nuts.
Step 4. Attach the carrying handle to the frame. Remember to make two latches ,
so that the suitcase does not open during transportation.
Note! Before starting work, draw up a drawing of your table in several projections, calculate the dimensions of all parts and how much material you need. This will save yourself from mistakes, and you will not have to redo all the work again.
Protecting the Camping Table
An unprotected tree ages quickly enough: dampness, temperature changes that are inevitable in nature, sunlight and many other factors adversely affect the material and reduce the durability of the folding table.
Therefore, do not forget to treat all its surfaces, especially the countertop, which is most susceptible to harmful influences.
For use special antiseptic compounds, stain.
A lacquer or paint finish will enhance the look of the plywood or chipboard and make the travel table look prettier.
How to make another version of a light folding table, see the video: