12 Foot Picnic Table With Roof Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about a 12 foot picnic table with roof plans. This article features detailed instructions for building a large picnic table with handicap accessibility on both ends and with a roof. Check out PART 2 of the project to learn how to build the roof for the picnic table. Take a look over the rest of our woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

12′ Picnic Table with Roof Plans

Building-a-12-ft-picnic-table

Cut & Shopping Lists

A – 6 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 37″ long LEGS
B – 3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 35″ long, 3 pieces – 65″ long SUPPORTS
C – 6 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 144″ long TABLETOP
D – 4 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 111″ long SEAT
D – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 35″ long, 4 pieces – 25 7/8″ long DIAGONAL BRACES

6 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 12′
6 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 10′
3 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 6′
3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 10′
100 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws
50 pieces of 4 1/2″ screws
24 pieces of 3 1/2″ carriage bolts
wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

One day

PART 1: 12 Foot Picnic table With Roof Plans
PART 2: Building a Picnic Table Roof

12 Foot Picnic table With Roof Plans

Building-the-legs

The first step of the project is to build the legs for the picnic table. Use 2×6 beams for the legs, as shown in the plans. Make 60 degree cuts at both ends of the legs and smooth the edges with sandpaper.

Building-the-braces

Next, you need to build seat braces and the supports for the tabletop. Use 2×6 lumber for the seat braces and 2×4 lumber for the tabletop supports. Make decorative cuts to both ends of the supports for a professional result.

Assembling-the-frames-for-the-table

Next, you need to attach the braces to the legs and assemble the frame for the picnic table. Lay the braces on a level surface, making sure the components are parallel. Then, attach the legs, making sure you align the components with attention.

Drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ carriage bolts to lock the components together. Use 2″ bolts for each joint.

Fitting the tabletop slats

Lay the 12′ long beam to a level surface. Place a piece of 3/8″ plywood between the 2×6 beams to create consistent gaps. Next, attach the frames to the tabletop, as shown in the diagram.

In order to secure the frames to the tabletop, you can use several techniques. On one hand, you can drill pocket holes through the tabletop supports and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the 2×6 slats. Make sure you insert 2 screws in each slat. On the other hand, you can drill pilot holes thorough the 2×4 supports and insert 4 1/2″ screws into the beams.

Even picnic table

If you want to have equal overhangs on both sides, then leave 21 1/2″ on both sides of the picnic table. This table is designed to have handicap accessibility on both ends, so that explained the overhangs.

Fitting the bench slats

Next, you need to attach the 111″ long slats to the seat supports. Leave 1/2″ between the 2×6 slats for a proper drainage. Drill pilot holes through the slats and insert 2 1/2″ galvanized screws into the supports.

Building the diagonal braces

In order to enhance the rigidity of the picnic table, I recommend you to install diagonal braces to the structure. Cut both ends of the 2×4 braces at 60 degrees.

Fitting the braces

Fit a support to the middle of the tabletop, as shown in the plans. Drill pilot holes and insert 4 1/2″ screws to lock the support to the tabletop. Alternatively, drill pocket holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws.

Fit the diagonal braces to the picnic table. Use a spirit level to make sure the legs are perfectly plumb. Drill pilot holes through the braces and insert 3 1/2″ screws into the braces.

Picnic table with roof plans

After you assemble the 12′ picnic table you could add a roof. If you want to protect the table from the elements or to create a nice shade during the hot summer days, take a look over PART 2 of the project.

12 foot picnic table with roof plans

Fill the holes with wood putty and let them dry out for a few hours. Smooth the surface with 100-220 grit sandpaper and remove the residues with a damp cloth.

Top Tip: Apply a few coats of paint or stain to the components, to enhance the look of the project. Check out PART 2 of the project so you learn how to build the roof for the picnic table.

This woodworking project was about 12 foot picnic table with roof plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.