How to Build a Ping Pong Conversion Pool Table

Add a homemade ping pong conversion pool table to your game room.

Ping pong and pool tables take up a lot of space and can be very expensive. If you already have a pool table, being able to convert it into a ping pong table will allow you to enjoy both games without requiring additional space or added cost. Try making one yourself.

Things You'll Need

• 2 sheets 3/4-inch medium density fiberboard, 5 feet-by-8 feet
• Circular saw
• Electric hand drill
• 1/2 gallon of green or blue matte paint
• 1/2 gallon of white primer
• Painter's tape
• Measuring tape
• 36-inch long stainless steel piano hinge, 1 1/2 inches wide
• Ping pong net with 2 clamps

Instructions

1. Cut each 5 feet-by-8 feet medium density fiberboard down to 5 feet by 4 1/2 feet.

2. Paint the tops and edges of both boards with white primer and allow to dry.

3. Paint the tops and edges of both boards with blue or green matte paint and allow to dry. Ping pong table paint is available in some specialty stores and online. It gives your table a more professional look and feel though it is more expensive.

4. Attach the two boards using the piano hinge so that the final dimension of the table is 5 feet by 9 feet.

5. Tape off the 2-centimeter edge around the perimeter of the table and a 3-centimeter line down the middle of the table lengthwise.

6. Paint the edge and center lines using the remainder of the white primer and allow to dry.

7. Place the finished table on top of your pool table and attach a net. Nets come with two clamps, one for each side of the table. Fasten them to the table with the included screws and then pull the net across the table, sliding each side into a clamp so that it is taut.

Tips & Warnings

• Most pool tables are the same height as a standard ping pong table, 30 inches. If your pool table is higher or lower, adjust it's height when playing ping pong. Consider placing a blanket or cloth over your pool table before placing the conversion table on top, this will help protect your pool table's finish.

• Always be careful when using a circular saw. Keep cords and loose objects at a distance and wear proper safety equipment. Never try to lift your ping pong conversion table alone, it is heavy and should be lifted by at least two people.

References

• USA Table Tennis Rules