What size should a picnic table be?

A standard picnic table is 6 feet long, 29 inches wide at the top, and 29-30 inches tall, with seats at 17-18 inches.

How do I keep the picnic table from wobbling?

Proper diagonal bracing under the tabletop and tight carriage bolt connections at the legs will prevent wobble.

Should I anchor the picnic table to the ground?

On a deck or patio, anchoring is not needed. On grass or dirt, you can use ground stakes in windy areas.

How to Build a Picnic Table: Complete DIY Guide | Lumberama

beginner

4-6 hours

$100 - $300

How to Build a Picnic Table (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Projects Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026|Sources & methodology

The classic picnic table with attached benches is an iconic outdoor project that's simpler to build than most people think. With just dimensional lumber and basic tools, you can build a sturdy table that seats six to eight people. This is an excellent first project for beginner woodworkers who want to jump straight into building functional outdoor furniture.

Key Takeaways

The classic picnic table with attached benches is an iconic outdoor project that's simpler to build than most people think.
With just dimensional lumber and basic tools, you can build a sturdy table that seats six to eight people.
This is an excellent first project for beginner woodworkers who want to jump straight into building functional outdoor furniture.
Round over all edges with a router or sandpaper to prevent splinters.
Use carriage bolts through the legs instead of screws for rock-solid joints.

Tools Needed

Circular saw, drill/driver, tape measure, speed square, protractor or angle finder, clamps, socket wrench, sanding block, safety glasses

Materials List

2x6 boards (tabletop and seat boards), 2x4 boards (braces and supports), 4x4 lumber (legs), carriage bolts, washers, nuts, wood screws, exterior wood stain or sealant

Recommended Species

Pressure-Treated Southern Yellow Pine, Western Red Cedar, Redwood

Recommended Sizes

2x6x8 (tabletop and seats), 2x4x8 (braces), 4x4x8 (legs, cut to size)

Pro Tips

Round over all edges with a router or sandpaper to prevent splinters. Use carriage bolts through the legs instead of screws for rock-solid joints. Pre-drill all screw holes in the end grain of boards to prevent splitting. Apply stain before assembly — it's much easier to get full coverage.