Creating Your Own Folding Camp Table
Spending time in nature can be one of the most fulfilling experiences we can have. Whether it’s camping, hiking or simply enjoying a lazy day by the lake, there’s just something special about being out in the fresh air. One of the challenges of outdoor living, however, is having a place to eat and relax. That’s why I decided to create my own folding camp table – to have a sturdy and easy-to-carry surface to put my food, drinks and books on.
How To Make A Folding Camp Table
Materials
First of all, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s what I used:
- 4 wooden boards (18″x9″)
- 2 wooden boards (18″x2″)
- 2 wooden dowels (1.5″x18″)
- 2 hinges (3″)
- Drill
- Screws
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started:
- Sand all the wooden boards until they’re smooth and splinter-free.
- Take two of the 18″x9″ boards and drill a hole in each corner, about 1 inch from the edge.
- Take one of the 18″x2″ boards and attach it to the two 18″x9″ boards, using wood glue and screws. This will be the back of the table.
- Repeat step 3 with the other two 18″x9″ boards and the remaining 18″x2″ board. This will be the front of the table.
- Attach the two hinges to the back of the table, about 5 inches from each end.
- Insert the wooden dowels through the holes you drilled in step 2, making sure they’re evenly spaced and parallel to each other.
- Attach the front of the table to the back using the hinges.
- Your folding camp table is now complete!
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
Here are some additional tips and ideas to help you create your own folding camp table:
- Choose lightweight and sturdy materials, such as pine or cedar.
- Consider adding a handle to make it easier to carry.
- Add a coat of varnish or paint to protect the wood from the elements.
- If you want a larger table, use longer pieces of wood and adjust the measurements accordingly.
- If you don’t have access to a drill, use wood screws and a screwdriver instead.
- For a more rustic look, use branches instead of dowels.
- Make sure the hinges are securely attached to avoid any accidents.
- You can also use this table as a side table or a laptop stand.
- Experiment with different colors and patterns to make it more personalized.
- Have fun and enjoy your new folding camp table!
Pros and Cons
Like any DIY project, there are pros and cons to making your own folding camp table:
Pros
- You can customize it to your liking
- It’s cheaper than buying a pre-made one
- You can take pride in having made something with your own hands
- You can adjust the size and materials to fit your needs
Cons
- It requires some woodworking skills and tools
- It may not be as durable as a professionally-made table
- It may take some time and effort to get it right
- You may end up spending more money than you expected on materials
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I’m very happy with my folding camp table. It’s lightweight, easy to carry and provides a sturdy surface for my outdoor activities. I would suggest using a varnish or paint to protect the wood from moisture and insects. I would also recommend using longer dowels or branches if you want a taller table. Finally, make sure to take your time and measure everything carefully to avoid any mistakes. Have fun and enjoy your new table!
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to make a folding camp table?
A: It depends on your woodworking skills and the complexity of the design. It took me about 3 hours to make mine.
Q: How much does it cost to make a folding camp table?
A: Again, it depends on the materials you use and where you buy them. I spent around $30 on mine.
Q: Can I make a folding camp table without using hinges?
A: Yes, you can use a rope or a strap to tie the two halves together.
Q: How much weight can a folding camp table hold?
A: It depends on the materials and the design. Mine can hold up to 20 pounds.