How to Build Small Deck Tables

Rip cut, meaning to cut with the grain of the board or to cut down the entire length of the board, eight 1x4 pieces of lumber to 2 ¾ inches. Cut the pieces to the desired height of the table.

Glue together two lumber pieces from Step 1, adding finishing nails every 3 to 4 inches. Attach the 1-inch side to the edge of the 2 ¾-inch side of the lumber pieces from Step 1 so that when seen from the top they form an L shape. Continue this step for the rest of the pieces to create four table legs.

Determine the length and width of the table and cut two 2x4 pieces of lumber to each measurement, creating four cuts all together. Align one table leg to each end of the width pieces, which will be the sides of the table. Drill pilot holes, apply wood glue and screw the legs to the 2x4 width piece.

Glue the length-measured 2x4 piece from Step 3 to the other side of the table legs, then drill pilot holes and insert screws creating the front and back of the table. This should look like a rectangular base with four legs, one in each corner.

Cut two 1x4 pieces of lumber to the width measurement. Position the table so the legs are in the air, measure down the legs one-third of the way and make marks on each leg with a pencil. Secure the 1x4s to the inside of the legs with wood glue and screws, creating two support beams on the side of the table.

Find the center of the 1x4 support beams from Step 5, mark with a pencil and measure across the length of the table. Cut a 1x4 piece of lumber to this measurement and secure with wood glue and wood screws.

Flip the table upright, measure the length of the table plus 2 inches and cut 1x4 pieces of lumber to this size. These will be the table's top; the number of 1x4s needed depends on the table size.

Apply the 1x4 pieces of lumber to the top of the table with wood glue and finishing nails. Allow 1 inch overhang on all sides of the table.