How to Make a Round Picnic Table

Picnic tables are often used for outdoor gatherings but the long rectangular shape can separate individuals at one end from interacting with friends or family at the opposite end. Create a more sociable outdoor experience by creating a round picnic table. Round picnic tables are also good for small spaces as they allow people to move more easily than trying to get around a rectangular table with sharp corners. Building a round picnic table is a rather simple task that requires only a few extra steps when compared to creating a standard picnic table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure in 6 inches from each end of one of the 2-inch by 4-inch by 36-inch boards and mark with a pencil. Place the end of one 4-inch by 4-inch by 30-inch board on each of the two marks and attach by driving two 5-inch screws through the 2x4x36 directly into the end of each 4x4x30. You now have two legs attached by a board across the top. Repeat this step with the remaining 2x4x36 and 4x4x30s so you have two pairs of legs.

2

Lay six 36-inch by 2-inch by 6-inch boards side by side horizontally to create a 36-inch by 36-inch square. Measure 6-inches in from the left side of the square and place one pair of legs vertically, cross-board side down so they're sticking up into the air, on the mark and attach to the boards below by driving two 3-inch screws through each point where the leg cross-board intersects with the 2-by-6s below. Repeat on the right side to attach the remaining pair of legs in the same way.

3

Tie one end of a 20-inch string around the center of a pencil and the other end to a screw, using a tape measure to achieve an 18-inch length of string from the pencil to the screw.

4

Set the table on a flat surface, flipping it over so it's upright and resting on its four legs. Drive the screw with string attached two or three turns into the direct center of the table, just enough to secure it in place.

5

Draw a 36-inch diameter circle on top of the table as guided by the string. Carefully pull the pencil to tighten the string and draw the circle evenly around the table. Remove the screw with the string from the surface of the table.

6

Cut along the circular outline with a handsaw, going slowly to avoid cutting off the pattern.

7

Sand the surface and edges of the table with 220-grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish and remove any rough or sharp edges.

8

Wipe excess sand and dust off the table with a damp towel, being careful to remove any build up in cracks and crevices on the surface of the table. Allow to dry completely.

9

Apply a thin layer of polyurethane over every exposed surface on the table using a 6-inch sponge brush. Dip the tip of the brush into the can of polyurethane and apply a thin, consistent layer over the table. Allow the polyurethane to set for two to four hours and then repeat for a second coat. This will create a waterproof finish for the table, which is necessary for outdoor use. Allow table to dry for 24-hours before using.

How to Make Farmhouse Kitchen Tables

Whether youre going for the look of a country cottage or a rustic cabin, a farmhouse table adds charm and simplicity to any kitchen or dining room. Because of the straightforward design of a farmhouse kitchen table, virtually anyone with a little building know-how can make one in an afternoon. Once the table is constructed, you can leave it unfinished, apply a stain or just cover it with a clear sealant. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Arrange two of the 2-by-6-foot boards to run parallel to one another set 3 feet apart resting on their 2-inch width. Place the other two boards of the same size perpendicularly also on their 2-inch width at each end to cap the first two boards and form a square.

2

Make the boards flush at each corner. Insert two screws through each corner to connect the square frame unit together. Run a bead of wood glue down the inside seam of the corners for added strength.

3

Hold one 3-by-3-inch post upright and press it into one inside corner of the frame with the frame resting on a flat surface. Screw two screws through both corner boards and into the sides of the post to secure the post. Run glue along both seams on the side of the post where it touches the boards. Repeat this step with the three other posts so they are pointing up in the air at the remaining corners. Leave the frame for one hour so the glue can dry.

4

Rotate the frame and table legs so it sits upright with the frame suspended off the ground and the legs supporting the structure. Place all four of the 10-inch boards across the length of the frame so they run parallel to the first two original boards. Adjust the boards until they run flush to one another at each end, are set -inch apart, and have an even overhang off the frame on both sides of the table and at each end of the table.

5

Insert screws through the 10-inch boards and into the square frame underneath to secure the table top boards to the frame. Space the screws every 5 inches. Make sure you are driving the screws into the frame below as you work.

6

Sand over the entire surface and frame of the table to smooth the wood. If desired, apply a wood stain and let it dry, and/or use a clear sealant and allow the sealant to dry thoroughly.

Do It Yourself Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are a popular backyard item. They are less expensive than patio dining furniture and the style of picnic tables is classic rather than a temporary fashion. You can build a picnic table in a weekend and, depending on the cost of wood, for about $200.

Cutting

Use a combination square measuring tool to measure and mark a 22-degree angle on the ends of four leg boards and two under-table support boards. To make a 5-foot width between the seats, use a plank of wood no longer than 33 inches for the leg boards. Cut the leg planks at the mark with a circular saw. Use the circular saw to even out all the other boards before beginning construction. Cut the corners of each leg brace at an angle so they won't hit people's legs.

Top and Seats

For a 6-foot tabletop and seats, get 6-foot-long planks of wood that are no less than 2 inches thick and about 6 inches wide. About five will be needed for the tabletop and two for each seat. If the edges are not even, trim them down slightly so all are the same length. The leg braces will require two planks about 2 feet long and the same thickness as the wood for the top and seats. Lay the planks for the top side by side with the best side facing down. Put the longest edge of the leg brace about 6 inches (it can be about an inch less, but any more would take away seating) from each end so that it sits across the top planks. Flip each piece over and use deck screws to attach the leg braces to the top planks.

The seat braces should be a minimum of 4 feet long for a 6-foot-long table. Don't make the seat braces too long or they will make sitting on the finished seat awkward. Place the 6-foot-long seat planks on top of the seat brace planks so that about half of each seat plank is on the brace. Use deck screws to secure the seat planks to the brace at the midpoint.

Assembling

Flip the tabletop so that the attached leg planks face upward. Use deck screws to attach the leg boards to the leg planks on both sides. Use the deck screws to attach a piece of wood about 2 inches thick by 6 inch wide by 60 inches long to the leg planks. The finished leg planks should resemble an A. Attach the under-table supports to the bottom leg and seat brace with deck screws and again at the center of the tabletop.

Turn the finished tabletop and legs over and set the seat boards on so that the brace underneath sits on the leg and seat brace. Attach the seat boards on the ends to the leg and seat brace with deck screws. Use a level on each end of the finished table to check that it is even.

Sand the table down and finish it. You can cover it with a waterproofing agent, paint or wood sealer. As soon as it is dry, you can use it.

Picnic Crafts for Kids

A family picnic is an ideal way to spend a warm afternoon. Make the event more engaging for kids with picnic-themed crafts made from basic items you are likely to have on hand such as markers, paint, glue and decorations like stickers or beads. Even preschoolers are capable of completing these crafts.

Alphabet

A picnic-themed craft is also a learning opportunity when you incorporate the alphabet. Give kids sheets of paper with the letters of the alphabet written on them in large, block letters. Next to each letter kids write in a picnic item that starts with that letter, like ice cream for I or basket for B. Kids also draw a picture of the item.

Plates

Every picnic needs plates and cups. Have your little ones decorate the disposable items you plan to use. Give them markers or paints and have kids glue down sequins and beads for decorations. The children can even write names on items so guests know which plate or cup is theirs. Take care not to let children decorate the side that the food or beverage will touch, however.

Menus

Get your kids involved with the picnic fun by drawing up a set of menus that announce what guests at the picnic will be eating. The menus can be as simple or fancy as you like. Give kids some craft paper or construction paper and have them write out the picnic options using crayons and markers. Or, if the kids are too young to spell, let them draw pictures of menu items.

Ants on a Log

Make a picnic craft that can also be eaten as a snack. Everyone knows ants are the unofficial mascot of picnics everywhere. Have your youngsters make "ants on a log" by spreading peanut butter on celery sticks. Use a row of raisins pressed into the peanut butter to mimic the look of a line of ants.

Table & Picnic Games for the Elderly

When you are having a large family picnic, think ahead about some games for elderly family members to enjoy. Because elderly family members may have a hard time participating in active games, in which they may injure themselves, prepare some table games for your event.

Bingo

Bingo is a great game for a group of people at a picnic and is perfect for the elderly. The game is made up of several cards with 25 numbers on a grid. Numbers are called at random, and the player that first can match up five numbers vertically or horizontally. That player must call out "bingo" to win.

Chess and Checkers

Chess and checkers are good games for the elderly to play at picnics. Both are two-player games played on a chessboard. Each player lines up 16 pieces on the board. In chess, each player must try to checkmate the opponent's king piece; in checkers, the goal is take all of the opponent's pieces off the board.

Poker

In basic poker, players are dealt five cards each; then each player makes a bet. At a picnic, pennies or candies make good betting pieces. Each player tries to outrank the other players' hands. Bets are made between each hand. An ace is the highest-ranking card, followed by, in descending order, the king down to the two. Two pairs beats an ace; three of a kind beats two pairs; a straight, or cards in rank order, beats three of a kind; a flush, cards of all one suit, beats a straight. The next highest-ranking hands, in order, are four of a kind, a straight flush and a full house, which is a pair plus three of a kind. The winner takes all of the stakes that have been bet.

How to Make a Barn Wood Kitchen Table

Barn wood can be an attractive material for building furniture. It sets a rustic, western tone in recreation rooms or lodge-type settings. The wood is light gray in color and should stay natural, but you can add penetrating oil to help seal it and make the surface more user-friendly. You can construct a small table for a rustic kitchen setting with some random barn-wood planks and a few 2-by-4 studs.

Instructions

1

Place barn wood planks on a flat surface. The accumulated width of the planks must equal at least 36 inches. Flush the ends. Place two evenly spaced clamps perpendicular to the planks and tighten just enough to hold them together.

2

Measure the width of the planks and cut two studs at that length on a miter saw. Run a heavy bead of glue along the back of the cut pieces. Place one stud at each end, perpendicular to the planks, 12 inches from each end. The glued side of each stud must contact the planks. Make sure the glued sides contact the barn wood planks to bond them to the studs.

3

Screw two, 2-inch screws evenly spaced into each plank, down through the studs using a cordless gun. You don't need to pre-drill, and the glue doesn't need to dry before removing the clamps. The clamps are only to secure the planks and keep them snug and uniform against the bracing stud.

4

Place two of the studs on a flat surface, parallel to each other and 30 inches apart. Place one stud at each end, perpendicular to the other two studs. Flush them at the corners with the studs on the bottom to form a square. Put two 3-inch screws through each of the studs at the four corners. Repeat to form two squares, which will be the feet of the table.

5

Run a bead of glue along the sides of the studs underneath the table. Stand up the square legs flush against the sides of the bracing studs on the bottom of the table. Place two hand clamps on the legs where they meet the braces. Tighten to secure the square feet to the bottom of the table.

6

Drill holes 3 inches apart through the studs on the feet into the bracing studs. Insert 3 1/2-inch screws into the holes and tighten with the cordless gun. Remove the clamps. Allow a minimum of one hour for the glue to dry. Stand the table upright.

Farm Party Decoration Ideas

The beauty of creating farm-themed party decorations is that you can use basic household items to create a rustic, casual look. Transform items you already own or that grow in your garden, such as pumpkins and flowers, into charming farm-inspired decorations. Save money by allowing birthday party guests to take the decor pieces home as favors. Does this Spark an idea?

Country-Inspired Wagon

When planning a farm-themed birthday party for a child, incorporate a red wagon into the decor plans. Choose a vintage red wagon for extra charm and fill it with hay. If the party is taking place in autumn, decorate several white and orange pumpkins with farm animal-inspired faces using markers. You can also use craft paint to enhance the pumpkins prior to decorating them; for instance, use pink paint for a pig face or black and white paint for a cow face. Arrange the decorated pumpkins on top of the hay in the wagon. Set the wagon anywhere within the party space.

Bandanna Table Textiles

Decorate the birthday party dinner or dessert table with farm wear-inspired touches. Sew several vibrantly hued paisley-printed bandanna together to create a whimsical runner, and lay it down the center of the table. Use all red bandannas for a traditional look, or create a colorful style using blue, green, orange and yellow bandannas as well. Place paper plates on woven bamboo plate holders for a country-inspired look. Set a glass ball jar by each plate setting for guests' drinks. Roll new bandannas as cloth napkins as secure them with cow, pig or horse-shaped napkin holders. Use a vintage vase filled with sunflowers or yellow daisies as a centerpiece.

Stuffed Animal Centerpiece

As a simple and eye-catching party table centerpiece, transform a farm-inspired stuffed animal into creative table decor. Choose a charming cow, pig, chicken or sheep plush toy and set it in the middle of the table. Buy a helium balloon featuring a farm-inspired design, a long ribbon string and a "happy birthday" message. Tie the end of the balloon's ribbon around the plush toy so it stays anchored to the party table. The centerpiece is especially sweet for a young child's birthday bash.

How to Extend Farmhouse Tables

Farmhouse tables lend a rustic feel to the kitchen, dining room, parlor or enclosed patio. Typically fabricated of wood, such as oak or maple, its sturdy, simple style can add a sense of homey comfort to a space. While the bare farmhouse table may be less appropriate for formal events, an elegant tablecloth can help it rise to the occasion. On such special occasions, when the need to seat a larger than normal group of diners arises, you may wish to make the table larger. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Get the extender leaf or leaves. Some farmhouse table designs include a storage area for the leaves beneath the table's top. Others require you to find your own spot for leaf safekeeping. If you have not used the leaf in a while, you may want to dust or even polish it before using.

2

Grip the end of the table and pull to separate at its center. If your table is made of a denser wood, such as oak, you may need an extra pair of hands for this step.

3

Add the leaf or leaves by positioning carefully in the table's open center space.

4

Ease the table back together by sliding each end inward to abut the leaf.

How to Build a Basic Picnic Table

One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors with all the benefits of a dining area is to have a picnic table. Basic picnic tables are easy to build and certainly look more charming and appealing than a portable plastic picnic set. While plastic picnic assemblies are suitable for travel, custom-built wooden picnic tables and benches are a much more attractive addition to your garden, patio or deck. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose what kind of a picnic table you want and draw a plan. Determine the length, height and width of the table, as well as the type of lumber and finish. Bear in mind that every person needs to have 18 to 25 inches of space on the bench and the table. The width of an average picnic table ranges from 26 to 35 inches. The height is usually around 30 to 32 inches for the table and 15 to 18 inches for the benches.

2

Use treated pine or cedar for the table and bench top. Table tops can be 1x8, 2x4 or 2x6, depending on the overall look and the proportions. For the frame of the picnic table and the legs of the benches, you can use 2x4s or 2x6s from pine wood.

3

Cut all the wooden planks for the benches and for the table to the length you want. Use a circular saw and then treat the edges with coarse and fine sandpaper to smooth them. The length of your picnic assembly is determined by the number of people who will sit at the table, and is usually from 6 to 8 feet. You can also order pre-cut boards if you know exactly the length you need.

4

Make the side frame for the table by placing two 2x4s to almost form the letter "A". The two diagonal planks need to be 15 to 20 inches apart. Cut the edges of the 2x4 at an angle so that they can support the table top evenly and also stand on a level surface. The angle of the boards needs to be 60 to 75 degrees, so make sure to cut the edges according to the chosen angle.

5

Connect the top of the diagonal boards with a 2x4, which will directly support the table top boards. On a height of 17 inches, connect the diagonals with a 2x6 board. This board will support the bench seat boards. Make two of these side frames for two sides of the table.

6

Attach the table top and bench top boards to the frames. Before finally securing the structure with bolts and screws, use a level to check that the surfaces are perfectly horizontal. Now you have the basic skeleton of the picnic table assembly. All the attachments need to be done in the same way, first by drilling holes with a power drill and then by inserting bolts for wood and tightening them firmly.

7

Mount the diagonal braces under the table in a form of a letter "A." These wooden planks will secure the table, and 2x4s are usually enough for this task. The braces will start at the middle of the lower plank of the side frame and finish under the middle of the table surface. In the middle, the brace planks will be mounted on a 2x4 attached under the center of the table, in the same fashion as the top of the side frame.

8

Apply a coat of primer to the whole surface of the picnic table assembly and leave it to dry. Then apply one or two coats of paint if you choose. If you want a more natural look to the wood, apply sealer to protect it without concealing its natural texture.

How to Build a Farm Table

A cozy addition to the new living room is a farm table. Because of their versatility, farm tables can be used in just about any room of the house. The more common use is the living room or sitting room where beverages might be placed. Of course, they can also be the resting place of a number of different items used in home dcor. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place the 4 pieces of 1x2-inch lumber on the table. Drill pilot holes on the ends of the 14-inch pieces with the countersink bit. Next, apply glue to the ends of them, place the 2 longer pieces between them and secure them with the drywall screws. This is the skirt for the table.

2

Drill pilot holes through the width of the skirt every 6 inches. Be certain that the countersink hole is not deeper than -inch.

3

Place the 18x48x-inch MDF on the table. Measure and make marks 2 inches from the edges around the perimeter of the MDF. Place the framing square on these marks and draw lines to create a rectangle that is set 2 inches inside the perimeter of the MDF (dimensions of the drawn rectangle: 14x44 inches).

4

Apply glue just inside the rectangle drawn in Step 3. Place the skirt on the line and secure it to the MDF with the drywall screws. Clean up excess glue with a damp cloth.

5

Drill countersink holes through the face of the skirt 1 inches from each of the corners (8 holes total). Apply glue in the corners of the skirt and on the MDF and place a spindle in the corner. Secure it to the skirt with drywall screws. Be certain the spindle pulls up tight against the skirt and is resting on the MDF as well. Clean up the excess glue with a damp cloth. Allow the glue to dry overnight.

6

Turn the farm table upright. Sand with 100-grit sandpaper and an electric vibrating sander.

How to Make an Antique Farm Table

You can build your own antique-style farm table with hand tools and basic woodworking skills. The classic design uses traditional cabinetmaking skills, while the table itself is a popular style in country decor. Drawing the plans from scratch will give you practice for designing more complicated furniture.

At a minimum, you'll need to be able to cut a mortise, and tenon and peg joint. If you have the tools to join boards with splines, turn wood on a lathe or make a tongue-and-groove beadboard top, you can add a few fancier touches. A final coat of milk paint will turn your handmade table into a brand-new old-fashioned family heirloom.

Instructions

1

Visit a few antique shops or look at images online of farm tables to get a general idea of the style and the construction. Pay special attention to the way the aprons (side rails) are joined to the legs and how the top is joined to the aprons. Each craftsman created his tables slightly differently, so you may want to copy one original exactly or incorporate elements of several tables in yours.

2

Calculate the dimensions of your table, using an original table or one that's a convenient size as a guideline. Measure the length of the legs, the length of the aprons including their tenons that fit into the legs, and the width and length of the top. A typical length for dining table legs might be 28 inches long, cut in a tapered shape from a 2-by-4.

3

Build a small tabletop that's 36 inches long and 28 inches wide using three 1-by-10 boards joined edge to edge. Your four aprons should be 6 to 12 inches shorter than the length and width of the tabletop. For a 36-by-28 tabletop, you might have two aprons that are 30 inches long and two that are 22 inches long. You'll also need a few smaller pieces of wood for cleats, buttoning or beadboard ends. Sketch out the plans, and purchase the necessary wood.

4

Cut the legs to length with a hand-saw. Create simple tapered legs from 2-by-4 boards by sawing down their length, beginning at full width and ending 1 1/2 inches wide at the bottom. If you want fancier turned legs but don't have a lathe, purchase them ready-made from an antique furniture restoration catalog or look for legs to recycle from old furniture at an antique or junk shop.

5

Cut two mortises in the top of each leg by drilling auger holes and chiseling out the remaining wood to make a square mortise. Cut corresponding tenons in the end of each apron. Insert the tenons into the mortises, drill holes for pegs, and assemble them with hide glue.

6

If the table legs are slightly uneven despite careful measurement, adjust them now. Set the table level on a smooth floor, measure how high off the floor the shortest leg is and mark a line that height on the other legs. Cut on the lines, and the table will sit level.

7

Saw three 1-by-10 boards 36 inches long, and glue them edge to edge to form a tabletop that's 36-by-28. Cut two 19-inch-long cleats out of 1-by-2 boards. Reinforce the tabletop by pegging or screwing the two cleats to the underside. If you have the tools and skill, join the boards with splines in the edges instead. You can also make a beadboard-style top by adding narrow boards along the ends of the 1-by-10 boards, to help prevent them from warping or cupping when the humidity changes.

8

Chisel several short slots into the inside of the aprons, fit small pieces of wood with tongues into them, and screw the pieces to the underside of the top. Since the top may expand or contract depending on the humidity, farm tabletops are generally attached by these tongues and slots, which is called "buttoning." The tongues can move within the slots as the tabletop expands or shrinks.

9

Finish with a coat of traditional milk paint or oil paint. You can purchase milk paint in easy-to-mix form, with powdered milk, lime and pigments pre-measured.

How to Build Farm Table Benches

Simple, rustic and easy to build, farm tables are an extremely popular part of many decorating styles. But a table is only half the formula; you also need seating for it. Farm table benches are one popular option. Simple, strong and capable of seating many more people than a few chairs can, they also complete the look for a fraction of the cost and can easily be placed along the wall when extra space is needed. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Determine the length of your bench, and cut the 2 x 12 and 1 x 4s to this length. For the purposes of this article, we will make the bench 6 feet long.

2

Make a mark on the bottom edge of one 1 x 4 four inches from one end. Use the square to draw a 45-degree angle from this mark to the corner, then cut off this triangular piece. Repeat on the other end of the 1 x 4. You will now have a brace with one full-length edge and one that tapers to a shorter edge. Repeat with the other 1 x 4.

3

Cut a notch four inches wide in one end of each 2 x 10 leg. This will make it easier for the legs to sit level on the floor.

4

Assemble the two braces and legs. Using the square, draw a line perpendicular to the top of the brace that extends to the bottommost point of the taper. Use this line to ensure that one of the legs can be attached perpendicular to the brace. Apply a layer of glue to the top 3 inches of one leg, then align this leg to the line, make sure the top of the leg is level with the top of the brace. Attach the brace to the leg by driving two or three nails through the brace into the leg. Use the damp cloth to wipe off any glue that oozes out of the joint.

5

Repeat this procedure three more times, first attaching the second leg to this brace, then attaching the remaining brace to the assembly. When all four pieces are attached, it should appear as though the bench legs extend down from the bottom of the tapers on the braces. The structure will be very steady.

6

Apply a bead of glue along the top edges of the braces and the ends of the legs. Center the bench seat on top of the base unit, then drive nails through the top and into both braces and legs. Wipe off any glue that oozes out, and allow the bench to dry.

7

Sand the bench lightly, then apply finish with the applicator, following the manufacturer's instructions. Let it dry, and your bench is ready for use.

Types of Chairs for a Farmhouse Table

Farmhouse tables are rustic and country dcor items that can accommodate a variety of chair types. You might even wish to mix different chair types around one table. Does this Spark an idea?

Spindle-back Chair

Spindle-back chairs have two vertical posts with five small vertical wooden rods spaced between them. The spindles are held together with two horizontal slats, one at the top and one at the bottom.

Wheat-back Chair

Wheat-back chairs are similar to the spindle back, but the spindles appear pulled together in the middle to achieve the look of a sheath of wheat.

Ladder-back Chair

Ladder-back chairs have a tall back made up of three or more horizontal slats secured between two vertical post.

Bench Chairs

Bench chairs are long and are made to accommodate two or more people. There may or may not be a back on a farm table bench chair.

Seat Bottoms

Seat bottoms are made of rush, wooden slats or solid wood.

Finish

Each chair can be finished in black paint, white paint, milk wash, clear polyurethane or left natural. The black and white paint can be distressed.

Picnic Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are active and full of energy. They are curious about everything around them. Singing and playing appeal to preschoolers, and picnics provide great opportunities to engage them in activities that involve physical and mental exercise.

Racing on Three Legs

Divide children into groups of two. Using a scarf or soft cloth, tie the right leg of one child to the left leg of the other. Have the teams run as soon as they hear you blow a whistle. The pair that crosses the finish line first is the winner. This game is fun to play and creates a spirit of competition and cooperation in children.

Water Balloon Catch

You need water balloons for this activity. Pair up kids and give each team a water balloon. One member of the team throws the balloon and the other catches it. With each toss, the child who throws the balloon moves a step backward, putting distance between him and his partner. The team that keeps its balloon intact without bursting is the winner.

The Picnic Song

Come up with personalized songs. Start the song by singing, "I'm at a picnic. My name is Kate, and I have brought biscuits." The children repeat the song, personalizing it by inserting their names and the treats they have brought. The song passes on until all the children have participated.

Pick Picnic Items

Fill a picnic basket with random items. Some of the items should relate to the picnic, such as paper plates, utensils, napkins, cups and so on. Other items should be unrelated to the picnic, such as a toothbrush or a glue bottle. Ask each child to pick picnic items from the basket. Praise her if she gets the right one and correct her if she picks a wrong item. This activity teaches children to make connections between objects and concepts.

Set the Table

This activity is a fun way to teach math. Tell the children you need their help to set the table. Place three plates on the table and tell them that it's going to be a three-person setting. Put two napkins on the table and ask whether those are enough. Place four forks and ask if they are enough. Teach them math as you set the table with their help.

Farm-to-Table Activities

Teaching kids where their food comes from is an important step in developing an understanding of healthy eating. It's also an important lesson about agriculture, industry and how farming sustains the economy. Many children never visit a farm and have no experience with growing their own vegetables or seeing farm animals. Farm-to-table activities combine lessons on science, social studies and health by showing where food comes from, how people live on a farm and how to make fresh food choices.

Coloring Sheets

Even the youngest student can gain knowledge of farm and food by using free on-line coloring sheets available for teachers and parents. These coloring sheets help students understand a variety of aspects of farm life by comparing the different stages of vegetables and what they look like before they get to the grocery store and eventually the table. Coloring and identification sheets are great to use after a field trip to a farm or hosting a guest speaker from a farm. They also pair well with science lessons on plants and what they produce for food.

Farm-to-Table Science Projects

Farm-to-table science projects are a good option for students looking to compare the differences between fresh food and fast food. Students take a vegetable at different stages of preparation and levels of preservatives and see which ones break down faster and more easily. A good example is a potato. Students can use a freshly cooked potato, frozen potato wedges prepared following package directions, some potato chips and an order of French fries. Place each in a glass jar with a lid and record how long it takes each item to develop mold and break down. The cooked potato should begin to show mold first, and the French fries should last the longest with no mold. This shows students how preservatives keep food fresher longer; explain how too many preservatives can slow natural digestion and therefore are not as healthy.

Classroom Vegetable Garden

This activity allows students to directly experience the growing process and eat food that they have grown themselves. Prepare an area of the classroom near a sunny window and have students plant vegetable seeds in small plastic cups using potting soil. Label each cup with the student's name and the type of seed they planted. Good vegetable seeds to use are lettuce, squash, pumpkins, cucumbers and tomatoes, as these seeds tend to germinate quickly and produce faster results.

Start the plants in March or April, or whenever you have lots of sun coming into the room. Transplant the plants into larger containers when they outgrow the seedling pots. Make sure they have plenty of sunlight and water. Have students record the growth each day. The lettuce will be ready to harvest first. This is a good time to let the students make a salad out of what they've grown. Harvest the other vegetables as they come in. This project might need to be continued by the teacher or individual students over the summer, depending on your growing season.

Farm Field Trip

Plan a field trip to a farm for your class. Contact farms in you area; they may be privately owned, part of a nonprofit organization, or through a university farm exchange. Choose times of the year that would be the most interesting for students, such as during spring planting, when baby animals are born, or for fall harvest. Prepare students for the field trip by coordinating science lessons, math lessons and reading lessons with things that they will see at the farm.

Table Decorations for a Farmers' Meeting

Just the word "meeting" conjures up boring images of arguments, head-scratching, and lots of pencil tapping. Shake things up at your next farmers' meeting with some farm-inspired table decorations to set the mood for an enjoyable event. With minimal supplies, you can create gorgeous table decorations in no time at all. Does this Spark an idea?

Gingham Tablecloths

Red-and-white checkered fabric, also known as gingham, is the epitome of country life on a farm. Cover tables with readymade tablecloths, or sew some yourself. Some fabric stores sell vinyl gingham fabric that will make clean up a cinch

Country-Style Floral Arrangements

Sunflowers, black-eyed Susans, daisies and wildflowers are all types of flowers found on a farm. Arrange these types of flowers in glass flower vases. Insert each vase into a slightly larger steel pail to conceal. Tie a wide length of raffia ribbon around the pail to complete.

Mason Jar Candles

To add a touch of light to the table, fill small mason jars with water. Add a few drops of red ink to dye the water so it matches the tablecloth. Place a floating candle in each jar, and light before attendees arrive.

Sunflower Name Card Holders

Cut the stems off of freshly picked sunflowers. Lay the flowers flat on the table, and insert a name card so that seating for attendees is made simpler.

Bandana Utensil Napkins

Forgo traditional napkins in favor of red or blue bandanas. Roll utensils up inside the bandana like a napkin, and secure with a clothespin for extra farm flair. Glue small plastic rhinestones onto the clothespin to add even more sparkle.

Farm Star Chairs

A table would not be complete without decorated chairs coordinated to match the rest of the decorations. Cover the chair backs in red taffeta to match the gingham tablecloth. Secure into place with a large raffia bow on either end. Attached a medium-sized aluminum star, which can be purchased at your local craft store, to the center of the bow. You could also use copper-colored cowbells instead.

Small Favor Pails

Include a small favor pail for each guest. Line small red aluminum pails with tissue paper, and fill with a variety of nuts or seed packets to match the farm theme. Add a small shovel as an accent. Alternatively, you could fill the pail with wrapped candy or small baked cookies.

How to Design a Picnic Table

Picnic tables become a focal point in the spring and summer as warmer weather draws people outdoors. Designing a picnic table that features both function and landscape design aesthetics can be a rewarding task for most do-it-yourselfers. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Determine if you will be building the table or having it made. This can determine the type of design you create.

2

Determine what type of material to use in the construction of the table. Popular materials for picnic tables include rough-hewn log, standard lumber, plastic, cement or metal.

3

Decide what types of cutting and assembly techniques are needed if you plan to build the table yourself. Don't create a design that is beyond your skill level to assemble if you plan to build the table yourself.

4

Determine if the table should be movable or if it will stay in one place for the duration of its use. Lighter materials such as plastics and some metals are easier to move; heavier materials like woods and cement are preferred for permanent-placement tables.

5

Choose the height for the table top (standard is 30 inches) and the height of the seat (16 to 18 inches is typical). Decide how many people should be able to sit comfortably at the table to determine the length of bench seats and the tabletop.

6

Review published designs for ideas or draw out your own design.

Summer Picnic Foods for Kids

It can be tough to pry kids away from their video games and indoor entertainment, but when summer comes around, get the kids outdoors by going on a picnic. Skip the elaborate pasta salad and delicate sandwiches and bring along kid-friendly finger foods. That way the kids can run around the park and occasionally run back to the picnic for a quick bite, then get right back to playing.

Bite-Sized Fruit

Bring a bowl of blueberries, strawberry chunks, grapes, and orange slices. Cut-up fruit must be kept cold, especially if you include melons, which are at a higher risk of carrying dangerous bacteria. Bring a cooler packed with ice.

Creative PB & J

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are picnic-friendly because they do not need refrigeration. You don't have to have the same boring sandwich, though. Give your child an almond butter and blueberry jam sandwich, a Nutella and marshmallow creme sandwich, or a banana and peanut butter sandwich. The possibilities are endless with the many different varieties of nut butter and jams that are available. Check your local health food store if you can't find them at the regular grocery store.

Cheese and Crackers

Bring string cheese and bite-sized pieces of cheese such as cheddar and American. You can can also buy the cheese in block form and cut it into fun shapes with a cookie cutter. Your kids can eat the cheese along with whole wheat crackers and salami or ham slices.

Veggie Medley

Celery stalks and carrots are easy to bring along and the kids can dip them in ranch dip or peanut butter. Cut peppers into strips for dipping as well. The bright red, green and yellow peppers might get the kids' attention. You can also jazz up boring cucumber slices by drizzling them with a little Italian dressing.

Simple Directions for Building a Picnic Table

If you are grilling out or hosting a barbecue, you will need a place for family and guests to dine. Build a simple picnic table in less than a day for a fraction of the cost of purchasing a prefabricated table. Choose treated lumber so your picnic table will withstand the elements and provide years of enjoyment.

Instructions

Cut the Lumber

1

Cut four 30-inch-long sections from 2-by-8 lumber with a hand saw. Cut a 22-degree angle on each end of the sections. These are the legs.

2

Cut two 26-inch-long sections from 2-by-4 lumber. These are the top crosspieces.

3

Cut two 60-inch-long sections from 2-by-8 lumber. These are the bench crosspieces.

4

Cut two 26-inch-long sections from 2-by-4 lumber. Cut a 45-degree mitered angle on each end of the boards. These are the side braces.

5

Cut two 10-inch-long sections of 2-by-4 lumber. These are the bench braces.

6

Cut a 30-inch-long section from 2-by-4 lumber. This is the tabletop brace.

7

Cut nine 72-inch-long sections of 2-by-6 lumber. These are the bench and tabletop pieces.

Assemble the Frame

8

Place a top crosspiece on one of the legs. The top corner should be flush with the outer corner of the leg. Secure it by driving a 2-1/2-inch deck screw through both boards with a screwdriver. Attach a leg to the other end of the top crosspiece in the same manner.

9

Place the bottom edge of a bench crosspiece 15 inches from the bottom of a leg. The crosspiece will extend 10 inches past the outside of the leg. Drill two holes through the bench crosspiece and leg with a 7/16-inch drill bit. Place a 3-1/2-inch-long carriage bolt through each hole. Place a washer on the bolt and secure it with a nut. Attach the crosspiece to the other leg in the same manner.

10

Repeat to build the other side of the frame.

Add the Benches and Tabletop

11

Place the outer edge of a bench piece flush with the outer edge of a bench crosspiece. The end of the bench piece will extend 2 inches past the bench crosspiece. Secure the bench piece with a 2-1/2-inch deck screw. Attach the bench piece to the crosspiece on the other frame in a similar manner.

12

Place another bench piece on the crosspiece. Allow 1/4 inch space between the bench pieces. Secure each end to the bench crosspieces with 2-1/2-inch deck screws. Repeat to attach the remaining bench piece on the opposite side of the frame.

13

Place a tabletop piece on the outer edge of the top crosspiece. The end of the tabletop will extend 2 inches past the crosspiece and have a 2-inch overhang on the side. Secure the tabletop to the crosspiece with a 2-1/2-inch deck screw. Repeat to attach the tabletop piece to the crosspiece on the other frame.

14

Place a second tabletop piece on the crosspieces and secure it with 2-1/2-inch deck screws. Repeat to add the remaining three tabletop pieces.

Install the Braces

15

Place one end of a side brace on the center of the crosspiece and the other end against the underside of the tabletop. Secure each end with 2-1/2-inch deck screws. Repeat to add the side brace on the opposite end of the table.

16

Place a bench brace across the middle of the bench pieces on one side. Secure it by screwing a 2-1/2-inch deck screw through the bench pieces and into the bench brace. Repeat to add a bench brace to the bench pieces on the opposite side of the table.

17

Place the tabletop brace on the underside of the table across the center of the tabletop. Secure the brace to the tabletop by screwing 2-1/2-inch screws through each tabletop piece and into the brace.

Farm Party Centerpiece Ideas

For farm-themed parties, simplicity is best. When deciding on a centerpiece idea, think of simple, easy-to-find materials that also are sturdy. Affordability is something else to keep in mind. You may already have the items to make farm party centerpieces. With a little creativity, you can design attractive centerpieces for your party. Does this Spark an idea?

Canning Jars

Use glass canning jars to make your farm party centerpieces. Turn a jar into a vase and fill it with wildflower bouquets. Fill another jar with colored water and float a single bloom in it. If your party will be held in the evening, use glass canning jars as candleholders.

Watering Cans

Use old metal watering cans for rustic centerpieces. Arrange a bouquet of daisies or sunflowers in watering cans. Create bouquets of greenery, such as ivy and ferns. Greenery adds a muted, elegant touch to any farm table.

Railroad Lanterns

Use railroad lanterns for unusual candle holders. The lanterns, which are made of metal and glass, will provide a country feel to any party. Railroad lanterns work well outdoors--the design will protect the candle flames from the wind.

Produce

Raid your kitchen. Create bountiful centerpieces with fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether arranged directly on the table or artfully placed in a rustic basket, a centerpiece made of produce is a colorful way to decorate your farm party venue. In the fall, pumpkins, gourds and squashes of all colors, shapes, and sizes are readily available. Surround the produce with colorful leaves to complete your farm party centerpieces.

Straw Hats

Tie a strip of gingham cloth around the band of a straw hat. Add a small cluster of flowers by the bow for a simple centerpiece. Place flowers and greenery around the hat. Turn the hat upside down and use it to hold a bouquet of wild flowers.

For Children

Use farm centerpieces for a children's party. When kids think of farms, they often envision animals and tractors. Use toy tractors and such farm animal figurines as cows, pigs and horses to make your centerpieces. You also can use toy barns and silos. Create miniature scarecrows with sticks, doll clothes and straw. Place the scarecrows in potted plants or kid-friendly bouquets. Set baskets or bowls of fresh fruits and veggies on the table. Rinse the produce first, so the children can safely enjoy these edible centerpieces.

Picnic Food Ideas for Kids

Taking kids on a picnic is not just about the food. Most likely, they will want to spend a good deal of their time playing. To stay out of their way, prepare lots of finger foods that the children can eat as they get hungry, and without too much assistance. This will ensure that you get to relax, too.

Sandwiches

Sandwiches are easy to make ahead of time, and they pack well. You can freeze them the night before to prevent them from getting hot and mushy, but you'll have to leave out any vegetables (you can always pack these separately). To encourage all-day nibbling, cut sandwiches into mini triangles or use a cookie cutter to create fun-shaped sandwich bites. Sandwich fillings that work well for picnics include meat slices, cheese, cream cheese, hummus, peanut butter and hard vegetables such as onion, lettuce, carrots, and peppers.

Condiments

Many people believe that mayonnaise is not a safe picnic food. The Association for Dressings and Sauces, however, has declared this a myth based on 50 years of research. (The real culprit lending itself to this oft-repeated warning is probably the raw egg used to make homemade mayonnaise, a common practice a few generations ago.) But just because mayonnaise has been declared safe for picnics is no reason to limit yourself. Try alternatives such as avocado mayonnaise or a fruit-based chutney. Mango or pineapple chutney, for example, go really well with ham or turkey, and its sweet taste might appeal to the sweet tooth in nearly every child. Other ideas include mustard, salsa and Italian dressing.

Side Dishes

You can go ahead and bring the traditional mayonnaise-laden potato or pasta salad, but do you really want to do that? Other ideas for side dishes include sweet potato or German potato salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, fresh corn salad and applesauce. To make salads more appealing to children, consider using fun-shaped pasta or sweet dressings.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken packs really well for a picnic. Purchase chicken hot shortly before your outing. Pack it tightly together in one bundle, wrap it with aluminum foil and place it in a warm cooler, bucket or bag. Chicken will stay warm for several hours. Complement the chicken with a side dish, watermelon or other fruit.

Healthy Picnic

Help enforce a positive connection between a fun picnic outing and natural foods by leaving behind the junk. Children love sweet fruits, which are easy to pack and require no fuss to serve. Try strawberries or other berries, cherries, grapes, baby watermelon, citrus fruits, papaya or kiwi. Leave the bananas behind since they do not pack well. But don't rule out vegetables; children love finger foods, even vegetables. If children are thirsty from running around in the sun all day, they may be particularly drawn by the water content of refreshing, raw vegetables. Try sliced cucumbers, sweet bell pepper strips, baby carrots and celery sticks. For something more substantial, smear vegetables with soft cheese, peanut butter or hummus. You could also load skewers with fruits, vegetables, cheese, cubed ham or marinated tofu.

Farm to Table Concept

The farm to table philosophy embraces a sustainable approach to agriculture and dining. At its heart, the concept is simple: there is value in eating locally. The movement, which picked up speed during the first decade of the 21st century, touts the benefits that are reaped by those who both produce and consume local food--as well as the environment as a whole. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Locality

A "locavore" is one who makes a conscious effort to eat food produced in his surrounding area. While the definition of "local eating" is not hard and fast, a commonly accepted rule of thumb is to eat only (or mostly) items from within a 100-mile radius of one's home.

The idea is that such food is fresher and healthier (because it did not have to travel long distances or be sprayed with life-extending chemicals) as well as less burdensome to the environment (since the amount of fuel used in transporting produce down the street is significantly less than in flying it around the world).

Farm to table restaurants take on the locavore mentality as a guiding principle. Such establishments partner with nearby farms and food producers in order to offer patrons an ever-changing menu that is both unique and has a strong community connection.

Seasonality

Eating locally means eating seasonally. Farm to table restaurants in the Northeast, for instance, will not serve asparagus except for a few weeks in the spring when it is locally harvested. On the other hand, California's more moderate climate offers chefs a wide array of produce year-round. Farm to table restaurants are understandably popular on the West Coast but are growing in numbers across the country. The seasonality component encourages both food preparers and consumers to savor fruits and vegetables at their prime.

Nutrition

Not only does seasonal produce provide a connection with the community, but it can also offer a higher concentration of nutrients compared to the same fruit or vegetable that would have had to travel for days and over thousands of miles. In general, the fresher the produce--and the quicker it arrives on one's dinner plate--the more nutrients it retains. When produce is shipped over long distances, it may be picked unripe (and lower in nutrients) to accommodate the required shelf life. Some items, such as tomatoes, are even treated with ethylene gas, which serves to activate an artificial ripening.

The Environment & Economy

As a whole, the food industry consumes great amounts of fossil fuels in both producing and shipping items. There is also considerable pollution generated by factories and other resource-demanding inputs. The farm to table movement does its part by ensuring that food stays in the area in which it was grown or made. Not only does this reduce the carbon footprint of restaurants and individuals who buy local, but it also has a positive impact on the local economy. By cutting out the middlemen, such restaurants are more likely to be able to pay farmers a fair wage.

Personalities

The farm to table concept encourages one to "know thy farmer." Rather than buying a faceless brand of sugar snap peas at the supermarket, a farm-to-table chef is likely to have visited the land where her peas have been grown. The produce might have even come from the restaurant's own land--or roof.

It is through the connection to the land, and the people who work the land, that the farm to table movement comes full circle. By taking lessons from the ways in which communities historically sourced and consumed food, and adapting those lessons to modern times, the philosophy provides a sustainable outlook for the future of food.

Instructions to Build a Children's Table

Although children spend much of their time playing on the floor, a properly sized table is vitally important to them. A table represents a "grown-up place" for them to draw and write, and a place where partially completed projects can be left out and worked on at their leisure. Children's tables are simple to build, and they provide so much joy that you will be glad you built one for your child. Does this Spark an idea?

Height

The most critical aspect of a child's table is its height--and this height is best determined by measuring the chair that the child will use with it. The proper height for a child's chair allows the child's feet to rest flat on the floor and for his knees to bend at a 90-degree angle when he sits. You can get a good estimate of this height by measuring the child's leg from the floor to the bottom of her kneecap. To get the table's height, add 8 inches to the chair height. That way, both the table and chair will work together to help the child maintain good posture.

Materials

Most do-it-yourselfers use wood to build their table; it is easy to work and makes a sturdy piece of furniture. Either lumber or plywood can be used, and sometimes both are used together. In that case, plywood forms the top and lumber is used for the legs.

Other materials, such as PVC pipe, can be used successfully also, but these materials may require skills or tools the home builder does not have at hand. But even when using these, most builders will still prefer a wooden table top.

Construction

When you choose solid lumber, boards are usually edge-glued with carpenter's glue and allowed to dry. Scrape off any excess glue that oozes out from between the boards; cut the resulting panel to size, add legs (and an apron between the legs, if desired), and then sand and finish the whole table.

A plywood top can be substituted for the glued-up panel, and edge tape added to the edges of the plywood. The legs and apron are added as before.

When you use plywood alone, glue and nail together with the top four combination leg/apron pieces, each of which resembles an inverted "U." This creates a table resembling an inverted box with a "notch" removed from each side. Some builders add extra wood pieces to the inside of these notched legs, forming box shapes. (Such a child's table looks very much like a classic style known as a parson's table.)

Finish

The finishes available for a child's table are the same as those available for adult tables--stain, clear-coat (varnish, shellac, etc.) and paint. Of these, paint seems to be the most popular. It is both durable and colorful, and tables painted with latex paints are washable.

Decor for a Farmer's Breakfast Table

Decorate your farmer's breakfast table to create a space your friends and family can enjoy. Create a table that displays the rustic charm of a country kitchen table. Use colors and images that complement your kitchen and transport you to the farm, such as green and red or blue and white. Does this Spark an idea?

Furniture

Your breakfast table probably is the largest item in the room. Choose a natural-looking wooden table and chairs for an authentic farm look. The table can be brand new with a rustic look, or opt for an authentic old table with dings and dents from being used. The chairs don't have to match, though they can. Add cushions if the chairs don't have them. Opt for patterns that complement your color scheme. Add a hutch to show off your collection of farm-themed antiques or knickknacks if you have room.

Linens

Use linens to add a splash of color to the table, but avoid covering the wood completely. Use a table runner rather than a table cloth. Common farm-themed runners might include eyelet lace, gingham, calico or simple runners embroidered with roosters, apples or floral patterns. Avoid fancy linens that make the table appear too formal and take away from its comfortable farm charm. If you use a runner and place mats, they don't have to match. Mixing and matching different patterns within the same color scheme keeps the table looking coordinated without creating a formal look. Put folded linen napkins at each place setting or in a basket.

Dishes

Set the table with dishes, including a coffee service if you plan to serve coffee or tea. Use matching dishes if you enjoy a certain pattern or color, such as red and green apples or blue and white checks, as long as the dishes aren't too formal. Or you can mix patterns with the same colors or use a single pattern in different colors to add interest to your place settings. For example, use a variety of blue and white patterns or mismatched all white dishes to keep the table looking uniform in an interesting and casual way.

Accessories

Accessorize the table with items that add to the rustic farmhouse charm. Wire or wicker baskets can hold linen napkins, utensils or fresh baked biscuits, cookies, muffins, hard-boiled eggs or fresh fruit. Rooster, apple or other farmhouse-shaped cookie jars are another option. Fill mason jars with wildflowers, seeds or candles as a centerpiece. Alternatively, fill the jars with juice, butter, sugar, cream or other things you want to make available at the table anyway.

How to Make a Farmhouse Table

A nice looking table can brighten up any room. A farmhouse table is a sturdy table that can go in almost any kitchen. A farmhouse table can either have four legs or a pedestal base. This version uses the pedestal base because it is sturdy and easier to build. Once the project is complete, you will find great satisfaction in having friends over to show off your new farmhouse table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Use the table saw to cut eight slats of wood that are about 2 to 3 inches wide. Sand the wood until smooth. Line all of the pieces up in a row. Glue all of the pieces together. Tape the whole line together. Stand it up right, and bend the pieces until it makes one large circle. Glue the first and last piece together. Use band clamps to hold in place until dry. Drips of glue can be removed with a chisel.

2

Make a leg pattern from balsa wood. The two ends should be able to rest flat against the table base and the floor. Make sure the pattern you make does this. Trace the pattern onto the 2-inch thick wood stock. Use a band saw to cut three legs from the wood stock. Sand all three legs. Drill two hanger pilot holes into each leg. Use locking pliers to attach the hanger bolts and legs to the table base. Mark the location of each leg on the base, and drill holes to bolt the legs to the table.

3

Cut a 5 foot square from the plywood for the surface of the table. Sand the plywood. Attach to the table using screws, brackets and glue.

4

Cut four pieces of 1-inch thick wood about 2 inches wide. These should match the length of the table, so they should be slightly less than 5 feet. Sand them well. Screw each piece beneath the table top at the edge of the table. Each piece should be flush with the other pieces.

5

Use a wood stain to stain the whole table. Once dry, apply wood varnish to keep the wood in good condition. Use the color of your choice. Let dry completely before use.

How to Build a Children's Play Table

Building a children's play table at home allows the builder to customize the table to suit the height requirements of each age group. The table can be stained to match the room's dcor, or for a more personalized table, children can add their own unique artistic touch with some tabletop paintings.

Instructions

Build and Finish the Table

1

Cut the pieces of wood to the size of the table you want to build. A good size child's table requires the following measurements:

From a 2 x 4 piece of wood, cut four legs each to 20 inches in length;

From a sheet of stain-grade -inch oak plywood, cut out a square 30 inches long on each side;

From a piece of oak quarter-round, cut four pieces to a length of 30 inches each, with every corner mitered at a 45-degree angle, to form a picture frame.

2

Sand the table legs and sides of the tabletop. Glue four, 30 inch-long oak strips to the edges of the tabletop. Secure the strips with wood clamps while the glue dries.

3

Attach the legs to the tabletop, two inches in from each corner with 1.5-inch screws. Apply wood filler over the screw holes and allow to dry. Gently sand over the wood filler to create a smooth surface.

4

Use wood glue and clamps to secure the quarter-round to the top edges of the table. This quarter-round edging prevents beads and other craft items from rolling off the table when children are playing.

5

For safety purposes, sand all of the corners of the table to create a rounded edge.

6

Stain the entire table with a wood-colored stain, or choose a colored stain for a more brightly decorated table. Children can also get involved at this stage by painting pictures on the table. Seal the wood and apply two coats of lacquer for a long-lasting and durable finish.