D.I.Y. outdoor timber table

[Yorky88]

A simple outdoor table with bench seats. You'll also find handy advice for achieving a long-lasting finish on outdoor furniture.

• The project
• How to build a pallet table
• Tips for achieving a long-lasting finish
• More D.I.Y. table projects

The project

Knocked up this outdoor table and bench seats in a couple of hours using some timber I had lying around. I came up with the design myself and used custom measurements, but also drew on inspiration I found online.

I thoroughly enjoyed this build because not only was it a great challenge but I also got to do half of the build with my dad and show off my handiwork and skills.

How to build a pallet table

Find step-by-step instructions for building your own pallet table here: How to build a pallet timber table.

Tips for achieving a long-lasting finish

Looking to protect this outdoor table from the elements while keeping the natural cracks in the wood as a feature, Marty asked the Bunnings Workshop community for advice.

• "Look at a marine grade polyurethane. This will help against the weather but also the amount of tinnies that will be placed upon one's masterpiece. Spray is the way to go. If you don't have a spray gun, then roll and finish off by using a fine grade brush, similar to using gloss enamel. You will probably need at least three coats, sanding lightly in between." – darylhewston

• "I don't like varnish as it ends up peeling when exposed to the elements. I would use a natural oil. You could use a decking oil, linseed oil or a specialist product like Osmo or Whittle Waxes exterior oil. These can all be applied with a good brush. You would need 2–3 coats with a light sand in between. It does need some maintenance, but in my opinion you retain the natural beauty of the timber with oils. There are some very good hard wax oils which do have a gloss finish. The trick is applying multiple thin coats. The oil penetrates the timber and is not just a coating like varnish. " – She_Skills 

More D.I.Y. table projects

Rylie used a small gas blowtorch to apply a burn effect before applying timber oil to bring out the grain in the wood of this enormous outdoor table made from recycled timber.

Workshop member dean built this lovely dining table using hardwood pallets made of gum, which offer rich colours and grains.

Find more inspiration for your next project in our Top 10 most popular outdoor furniture projects

[Dave-1]

@Yorky88 

Your table almost matches the one I have in my head that I want for the front yard. Something that is solid and will last. How is it standing up the the weather? Love the seating. especially that bottom support bar.

Dave

[EricL]

Hi @Dave-1 

Let me tag @Yorky88 to make them aware of your kind words and questions. It would be good to know how the table and chairs are faring.

Eric