Porch Table for My Wife

by Joe K

I'm big into metalworking and needed to test out some cuts on my CNC plasma table, so I figured I would draw a file for some table legs and use some scraps I have laying around the shop to build something useful. My wife has wanted a little table for our porch so she can watch our toddler play and have a place to set a drink or something.

diy wood and metal porch table, diy, how to, outdoor furniture, painted furniture, woodworking projects

This is the file I drew up and cut out. They are about 12" long and 3" tall on the post side, they taper to 2" on the short side. Cut out of 1/8" steel sheet.

I took some 1/2" bar stock and cut them down to about 1.5" for the feet. Made the table only three legs so it will be rock solid even if everything isn't perfectly flat and level.

I'm not a huge woodworker, but I'd like to do more. This 24" round was at Lowes for I think $17, which is the only thing I actually bought to make the table. I bummed some stain off my dad and had some clear Deft lacquer to go over it after staining.

I painted the base a hammered bronze that I had left over from another project. Not 100% sold on it, but it looks ok. Put the bare top on to get an idea for size.

I took the bare top and just abused it with a knotted wire wheel on a grinder and a piece of chain I had. Then stained it and sealed it. Knocked it down with some scotchbrite pads in between.

I machines this collar out of 3" steel bar stock. Slips over the main post, which is 1.75" tube, and has the four holes to screw to the top.

Here's the finished table. Next time I might just clear the bare steel instead of the hammered bronze paint. Overall I like the design. I think the base has a sleek, dainty feel, which will go well on our small porch.

Enjoyed the project?

You can do it! Saved to your projects

Frequently asked questions

Have a question about this project?

Ask a Question

Comments

Join the conversation

4 comments

Hannah V on Jun 15, 2015
Awesome! I love this table- has such a cool look.

Like Reply
- Joe K on Jun 15, 2015
  Thanks!
  
  Like
Dima on Jun 15, 2015
I love how you've created something that is rustic, modern and industrial all at the same time! You have a definite talent for design...keep at it!

Like Reply
- Joe K on Jun 15, 2015
  Thanks Dima. My wife and I have a house that was built in 1954. We both want to keep the original feel with modern type touches....so that's what I was shooting for.
  
  Like