The Easy-To-Build Patio Table That Uses A Simple Wooden Crate

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In 2011, Harvard Business School conducted a study that found people actually like putting things like patio tables together from scratch. In fact, they often like these pieces more than the stuff they buy that's ready to use straight out of the box. The value placed on the completed furniture is called the "IKEA effect," after the brand known for its ready-to-assemble kits. Perhaps it's why you yourself became a DIYer. The good news is you don't need IKEA to get the pleasure that comes from building your own outdoor table. You just need a simple wooden crate, a tabletop, and an hour or two of your own labor. It's easy to build, and, more importantly, easy to finish. Your satisfaction is practically guaranteed.

The wooden crate plays a big role in this. Much of the table's sturdiness is going to come from how well the table is constructed. As such, you should look for a wooden crate that features four small, wooden beams in each interior corner. Cheaper crates often just feature thin boards that are nailed together without the reinforcement. The potential for these thinner boards to split apart due to the weight of the tabletop increases as a result. The tabletop, like the crate, is also pre-made. Since the instructions for this DIY call for you to spray paint the crate, you may want to look for a tabletop that will match your paint color of choice. Finally, you need a drill and some screws to complete this simple project.

Here's a quick rundown of this easy DIY. Basically, you'll attach the crate, which you've spray painted ahead of time, to the bottom of the tabletop with the drill. The crate then functions as the table's legs and base. To ensure maximum sturdiness, attach the bottom of the crate to the underside of the tabletop. 

Once you understand the basics of this simple build, you can tailor the project. For example, if you've painted the crate black, you're not stuck with a black tabletop. Something like the FLexispot 48-Inch by 24-Inch Marble Grey Desktop would level up the look of the finished product. Or, lean into both the reclaimed materials and biophilic design trends by using a piece of salvaged wood for the tabletop. A section of an old fence or vintage door would work well and add both visual and textural interest to your patio table.

You're not limited to just changing out the tabletop or paint colors, either. Designers predict that outdoor furniture, like patio tables, will be more curated and individual in 2027. Matching sets of everything are out. Here's how this easy-to-build patio table could fit into that trend. Use a vintage wooden fruit crate with the manufacturer's label still attached. The thrifted crate beautifies your patio or porch and gives this DIY a bespoke touch without overcomplicating the design or construction of this outdoor decor item.