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Gifts & Small Projects

Sand & Water Play Table

Step-by-step build — 10 steps. Also available as a print sheet.

  1. 1Build the Box

    Drill 3/4" pocket holes as shown and construct the box with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and wood glue.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 5
  2. 2Add the Slats

    Drill 3/4" pocket holes into the 1x2 support slats and attach to the box with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and wood glue. Space the slats approximately 4-1/4" apart.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 6
  3. 3Attach the Divider

    Drill 3/4" pocket holes into 1x6 divider and attach as shown with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and wood glue.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 7
  4. 4Add the Legs

    Pre-drill pilot holes and drive 1-1/4" wood screws to attach the legs to the box as shown.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 8
  5. 5Construct the Bottom Shelf

    Drill 3/4" pocket holes and construct the bottom shelf as shown with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and wood glue. Space slats approximately 1-1/2" apart.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 9
  6. 6Attach the Bottom Shelf

    Attach the bottom shelf with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. The bottom shelf is 2" from the ground.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 10
  7. 7Attach the Top

    Install hinges to attach the top to the play table. Note: torsion hinges are recommended to keep the lid from slamming down on tiny fingers.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 11
  8. 8Add Trim

    Attach 1x2 trim to the top with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 12
  9. 9Visit JenWoodhouse.com

    For more DIY project ideas and free building plans, please visit JenWoodhouse.com

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 13
  10. 10Sand, Stain/Paint, and Finish

    Sand, stain or paint, and finish with an exterior-grade top coat as desired. Because plywood is not suitable for outdoor use, I recommend storing the play table in a garage or under a covered area when not in use to protect it from outdoor elements.

    Sand & Water Play Table — step photo 14