These modern outdoor dining table plans are fairly simple and straightforward. You should be able to build this whole table in just a few hours with a basic set of woodworking tools. The table is designed to accommodate two benches, sitting three people on each side. The table is designed for a standard 29″ table height, to go along with 18″ high bench seats.

Note: These instructions are based on using standard dimensional lumber, and we try our best to make that apparent in our illustrations and directions.  If you plan to lumber from a lumber yard you may have to adjust the measurements slightly to account for the difference in actual measurements.

Required Materials

• 2 – 4×4 @ 6 feet long
• 5 – 2×4 @ 8 feet long
• 8 – 1×6 @ 6 feet long
• Wood glue
• 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws
• 2″ exterior wood screws
• 2″ 16 gauge galvanized trim nails

Tools

• Miter Saw (stop blocks are recommended)
• Drill/driver & countersink Drill Bit
• 16 gauge trim nail gun
• Pocket hole jig
• Square
• Tape Measure
• Sand paper or sander
• Chalk line (optional)

Step 1: Build the table base

We’re going to start these modern outdoor dining table plans by cutting the four 4×4 legs to 28 1/4″ high. When the 1×6 table top slats are added the total height will wind up being 29″, which is a comfortable standard dining table height. Next cut two 2x4s to 29″ long, and two 2x4s to 77″ long. Drill 3 pocket holes in the end of each, then attach to the legs using 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws and exterior wood glue. All of the apron boards should be inset 1/2″ from the outside corners of the legs.

Step 2: Add corner supports and long stretcher.

Now you’ll need to cut eight pieces of 2×4, each 4″ in length and with one end of each cut to a 45° miter. There should be exactly 1 1/2″ of space inside the apron boards for these to fit. Use wood glue and two 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws to attach each corner support to the inside of the legs. Also use two 2 1/2″ exterior wood screws to attach these corner blocks to the apron boards.

Next cut another piece of 2×4 to 80″ in length, use wood glue and three pocket hole screws on each end to attach it to the center of the short apron boards.

Step 3: Add corner braces and short stretchers

The next step in these modern outdoor dining table plans is to add a few more pieces of 2×4 to increase the structural integrity to the table base. After you add these pieces, the base should be rock solid and last for years if properly maintained. For the corner braces, cut four pieces of 2×4 to 10 3/4″ in length, with non-parallel 45° miters. Use wood glue and 2 1/2″ exterior wood screws to attach them to corner supports.

Now cut four pieces of 2×4 to 15 1/4″ in length, cut 3 pocket hole screws on each end of all four boards, and attach evenly spaced to the long aprons and the center stretcher.

Step 4: Attach the table top slats

The last step in these modern dining table plans is to add the 1×6 table top slats. You’ll need to cut fifteen pieces of 1×6 to 36″ long. I recommend using your miter saw with a stop block to ensure these all wind up being exactly the same length. Once cut, line them up so they are evenly spaced with small gaps in between. Then you’ll attach them using three 16 gauge nails on each end. I like to snap a chalk line that lines up to the center of the long apron. The chalk line will allow you to have a nice straight line for the nail heads that you know are all firmly secured in the apron 2×4. You don’t want to use wood glue on these since they will have the most exposure to the elements. You want them to have the ability to grow/shrink.

Step 5: Finish and enjoy your modern outdoor dining table

Now that your assembly is complete, give your entire table a good sanding. Progress through using 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper to ensure you have a super smooth finish. Since this is going to be an outdoor table, you’ll definitely want to use a good outdoor finish that will protect the wood and help it endure any elements to which it gets exposed.

Not certain what type of finish you want to add to your new piece? Check out our series on eco-friendly wood finishes. We detail options for oils, waxes, water-based finishes, shellac, milk paint, and citrus and plant based solvents. We give you all of the details you need to make an informed choice about the right type of finish to choose for your latest project.

If you have comments or question, please feel free to connect with us via the comments section below or use our Contact Form.  We love the feedback!  Also, don’t forget to check out our other free DIY furniture plans.

Don’t forget to show off your work in our Share Your Build section. We truly appreciate it when people share their work and let us know how our plans turned out for others.

Recommended Reading

Looking to dive deeper? Here are a few related projects and guides that will help you sharpen your woodworking skills, discover new techniques, and find inspiration for your next build.

• Why cedar makes great outdoor furniture and what to substitute on a budget
• How to choose the best wood for your project
• DIY modern outdoor dining bench plans

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