How to Build Card Tables

If card games are something you play often, and you do not have a large table, it can be inconvenient to play. However, purchasing a large table can be expensive and might not fit in your house. This article will instruct you on how to build a folding card table that costs much less than purchasing anything from the store. These plans will make an oval table that can be used for many different card games. Fold it up for storage, and you are good to go!

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 7/16-inch Thick, 8-by-4-Inch Sheathing Plywood
• 3 yards of Upholstery Fabric
• 6 Pool Noodles for Railing (optional)
• Measuring Tape
• Chalk Line
• Sharpie
• Piece of Wood (for arcs)
• Nails
• Hammer
• Jig Saw
• Circular Saw
• Upholstery Stapler
• Staples
• Electric Knife
• Duct Tape
• 3 Hinges and Screws for Table Top (if cutting)
• Wood for Legs
• Hinges for Folding Legs
• Power Screwdriver

1. Mark a line 6 inches from the edge of the table on the long sides. Then mark a line 12 inches from the edge on the short sides. Cut the excess board off and make a mark 21 inches from the side and from the end and then meet the two marks. Make an arc with the Sharpie by drilling a hole in the piece of wood, and nailing the other end to the middle of the table. Stick the Sharpie inside the hole and use it to draw the arc of the table. Repeat for the other side. You should end up with an oval shape. Cut the table in half so that it can be hinged together. If you want the legs to fold, rather than the table top itself, leave the table whole.

2. Staple the fabric to the sides of the table, pulling very tight. Go all the way around the table. Be sure to staple on the side that will not be the top of the table. Staples sticking through the table top will make it harder to play games. If you have cut the top in half, then you will need to use two pieces of cloth.

3. If you want the railings, cut the pool noodles down the length of one side. Be sure not to cut them all the way in half or it won’t work. Place them at the sides of the table, hugging the edge. Use the duct tape to hold them together. If you want, you can use cloth to cover these railings as well.

4. If you are cutting the table top, place the hinges on at this point. You will need about three sets. Use an automatic screwdriver to screw the hinges in tightly.

5. If you want to add legs to the table, they will need to be attached with hinges as well. Be sure to add a mechanism that will keep the table open when in use.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are not going to cover the noodles with cloth, be sure to pick a color that you don’t mind looking at when you play games.
• This project can take a while, so be sure to leave enough time to complete it properly.
• It is important that you pull the cloth very tightly or the table will be hard to use.