How to Make a Stump Table With Bark

Measure the area where you want to place the stump table to calculate the correct width and diameter.

Sit in the chair, couch or bed that will be next to the stump table to determine the correct height. The table should not be too low to the ground and not higher than the surrounding furniture. Subtract about 6 inches from the height measurement to account for the legs that will go on the bottom of the stump. Use the measurements when picking out the stump.

Cut the top and bottom of the stump with a chainsaw to achieve a flat, even surface and meet height specifications.

Place the stump in a dry area for one month to allow it to dry. Dried stumps are lighter, making it easier to complete the project.

Place the stump upside down to install the legs. Use three or four legs, depending on the diameter, to steady the tree stump table. Space the legs evenly around the perimeter of the stump table's base.

Mark hole placement with a pencil for the leg brackets. Pre-drill holes with an electric drill using the pencil marks as a guide.

Place the screws in the holes in the brackets and screw through the pre-drilled wood. Set the table upright.

Sand the top of the stump table to create a smooth surface.

Apply a stain on the top of the stump with a T-shirt because a paintbrush leaves brush marks. You can either darken the wood, use a colored stain or apply a translucent stain. Wait 24 hours for the stain to dry.

Apply a polyurethane finish using a paintbrush. Wait 24 hours for the finish to dry completely.