DIY Pub Table

Plans for authentic pub tables can be hard to find. In addition, it seems as if everybody has a different idea of what a pub table is. This makes it even more difficult to find what you need. However, it is not hard to design and build your own pub table. With a little effort, you can have a pub table that fits your needs perfectly. Does this Spark an idea?

Tradition

Although you will see many kinds of tables that are called pub tables, the traditional version is about waist-high, or around 42 inches tall. This is so drinkers have a choice: They can lean comfortably against the table while they drink, as they would around a bar, or they can sit on a stool and socialize; a 30-inch stool is the standard size.

While a pub table can have four legs, the traditional version is built on a central pedestal; this allows drinkers to move around it without bumping their legs against the tables legs. Pub tables can be either square or round, but the traditional shape is round; again, this is to make it easier to move around in the pub without catching the edge and jerking the table around (and spilling the drinks). A good size for a pub table top is from 30 to 36 inches in diameter.

Base

Because pub table plans are difficult to find, use plans for a pedestal dining table and adjust the measurements.

The base of a pub table should be heavy and sturdy. Glue and clamp four 4-by-4s, each 39 inches long, to make a thick, square, central post. You can turn this on a large lathe for a shaped pedestal, carve designs into it, or simply leave it as is. If you choose to turn the pedestal, leave a square area at least 4 inches high at the bottom for mounting feet, and about the same at the top.

Create feet around the base of the pedestal with 4-by-4s as well. Make them long enough that the table will not wobble. With such a thick pedestal, you will have a lot of surface area to support wide, sturdy feet; just attach each foot to it with both screws and glue, or you might use some leg-mounting hardware instead. In either case, round off the top edges of the feet so they look nicer and are less likely to catch someones foot, and use levelers under the feet and pedestal if necessary.

Top

One way to make your pub table's top is with two circles cut from 3/4-inch plywood, glued together to make a thick top. Cover the edges of the plywood with edge veneer tape, or fill them with wood putty.

Mounting the top is simple. Fasten 2-by-4s to the pedestal, then attach the table top to the 2-by-4s using long wood screws. Angle the bottom ends of the 2-by-4s so they do not stick out from under the edge of the table and hit peoples legs. Alternatively, use commercial hardware to mount the top to the pedestal.

Now all you need to do is finish the table with your choice of stain or paint, and you are ready to entertain.