DIY Small Porch Table

Cut a circular piece of 3/4-inch plywood with a jigsaw or band saw. The diameter of the circle depends on how large you want your table to be.

Bevel one edge of the circle with a router. This will be the upper side of the table top.

Cut four pieces of 2-by-2 lumber to the height that you want for the table.

Mark four points on the table top for the locations of the legs. The four points should form a perfect square, and be no more than 1/3 of the distance in from the edge. If they are farther in than this, the table can become unstable.

Drill a 1/16-inch hole through the table top at each pencil mark.

Drill a 1/16-inch hole in one end of each table leg, positioned in the center of the wood.

Screw each table leg to the table top with a 3-inch wood screw, inserted through the table top and into the leg. Countersink these screws slightly below the table's surface.

Set the table upside-down and rotate the legs into the same alignment.

Cut four pieces of 2-by-2 board, each sized to fit the gap between two table legs.

Apply a bead of wood glue to the ends and underside of each 2-by-2, then press them in place between the table's legs on the underside. These supports will help to hold the legs steady. Allow the glue to dry.

Turn the table right side-up again and fill the screw holes with wood putty. Scrape the putty smooth with a putty knife, then allow it to dry.

Sand the entire table surface smooth with 120-grit sandpaper.

Brush two coats of waterproof varnish onto the table to protect it from the elements. Allow each coat to dry completely.