Saturday Morning Workshop: How To Build A Folding Adirondack Table
Updated: Feb. 05, 2023Add some function to your front porch and try a new joinery technique by building this folding Adirondack table.
Time A few hours
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-50
Introduction
Got an Adirondack chair? This matching table is a perfect partner for it (or any comfy patio chair). You'll learn some tricks to expedite the process and a way to hide unsightly screws. With just a few basic tools, you'll have this table built and be relaxing next to your creation in a couple hours.Tools Required
- 3/8” plug cutter
- Brad nail gun
- Clamps
- Drill press
- Drill/driver
- Jigsaw
- Miter saw
Materials Required
- 1-1/2 in. FH Screws
- 1x3 cedar (25')
- 3/8-in. lock nuts (4)
- 3/8-in. split washers (8)
- 3/8-in. x 2-1/2 in. carriage bolts (2)
- 3/8-in. x 3-in. carriage bolts (2)
Don’t have an Adirondack chair? Click here and try building this convenient, folding design.
What It Takes
- Time: 2 hours
- Cost: $40
- Skill Level: Beginner
Cutting List
Tech Art
Project step-by-step (6)
Cut the arcs
Draw the arc on both ends of one of the top slats (A, B, C). Cut the arc with a jigsaw and sand smooth. Trace the arc onto the rest of the top slats and cut with a jigsaw. Gang up all the parts in a vice and sand up to the line. Repeat the procedure on the non-angled ends of the legs (D).
Assemble the apron
Drill the counterbores at the ends of the apron sides (E) using a 3/8-in. Forstner bit. Clamp the apron end (F) to the apron side and drill a pilot hole into both parts. Remove the clamp and drill a clearance hole through the apron counterbores. Fasten the apron side to the apron end with 1-1/2 in. flat head screws.
Attach the top slats
Mark centerlines on all the top slats (A, B, C), apron sides (E) and apron ends (F). Line the top slats with 1/4-in. plywood spacers along the centerlines. Fasten the top slats to the apron sides and ends with the same counterbore, pilot hole and clearance hole method stated in step 2.
Make plugs
Drill plugs with a drill press and a 3/8-in. plug cutter. Chisel out the plugs.
Insert plugs
Glue and insert the plugs into the counterbore holes. Wipe any excess glue with a moist towel. Drill a 3/8-in. diameter hole in some thin cardboard and place it over the plug to save the wood surface from being marred. Cut the excess plug with a handsaw and sand flush.
Attach the legs
Glue and pin the spacers (G) to the interior of the apron sides (E). Drill 3/8-in. clearance holes into the ends of the apron sides. Attach the legs (D) with 3/8-in. x 3 in. carriage bolts, split washers and nuts for the legs through the spacer and 3/8-in. x 2-1/2 in. carriage bolts, split washers and nuts for the legs that only go through the apron sides.
