How to Make Your Own Bistro Sets

Decide on the pattern and style you would like your bistro set to reflect. While bistro sets can be made from plastic, wood, or metal, metal creates a traditional bistro look. Your design should be relatively simple when making your first set. Decide on dimensions for your table and chairs.

Use the dimensions for the chairs to measure eight metal strips for the legs. Heat each metal strip individually over your heat source and use tongs to curve the strips until you have all eight legs for both chairs. Measure another four metal strips to the dimensions you chose for your table and use the heat source to make four table legs.

Create a base for the table by adding a longer strip between two legs at the top of the curve. Add another large strip to the top of the other two legs. Use two more strips to connect the legs to make your table top. If you decided on a round table curve the strips before connecting them to the legs. To make the base of the chair connect a strip to the top of two legs and one strip on each side of the feet using finishing nails.

Create a seat using another four metal strips welded together. Use the metal file to make the seat smooth. Weld the seat onto the legs of the chair. For a standard metal table top heat eight to twelve metal strips over your heat source and weld into a flat shape to fit on top of the table legs. Weld the table top over the table legs and smooth the top and edges with the metal file.

If painting your table or chairs, apply a rust-resistant primer, followed by a rust-resistant spray paint and let sit overnight. If needed, apply another coat; once paint is completely dry apply a polyurethane paint designed for outdoor use. Remove any residue with a cloth.