DIY folding table: 20 wall tables with step-by-step instructions

DIY folding table on the wall

Sometimes finding space for a desk in a crowded apartment can be a challenge, but there's a perfect solution by making a DIY wall-mounted folding desk . This solution makes it possible to save space and organize any space without changing the overall interior design. Wall-mounted folding tables have specific strength, compactness and design features that make them unique. Making a folding table , unlike traditional models, is much simpler and cheaper. This wall design will fit perfectly into the decor of any room, will allow you to use every centimeter in the room and solve the problems of free space with maximum ease. The kitchen folding table is ideal for those who want extra space in the kitchen to prepare their favorite dishes and enjoy a meal with company. A folding desk will come in handy in a bedroom or any small room. Small folding tables are also extremely functional for children's rooms, bathrooms, small studios or balconies. Here are different options with instructions on how to make a folding table with your own hands , there is even an example of a wall easel . I hope you will enjoy.

Types of folding tables

Even a small table takes up a decent amount of space in the room. In an effort to effectively organize the space of the house, residents of small apartments try to use the free surfaces of the walls. Modern furniture manufacturers offer many types of such tables. Each of them has unique design features, as well as different purposes. Let's look at the main varieties in more detail.

Table transformer

This option is characterized by its most compact size and versatility. It is very easy to use, and raising the tabletop and folding it does not take much time. Owners of Khrushchev-era apartment buildings often buy a folding table for the kitchen. The furniture fits perfectly into the interior of such a room, can have a semicircular or rectangular shape, and takes up a minimum of space.

This variety can be produced either with or without an additional leg for maximum stability. The second option involves exclusively wall mounting. It is recommended not to overload the structure, as it is quite fragile.

Traditional folding table

It features a massive and durable tabletop, which can be mounted on any type of vertical surface. The wall table is considered one of the most durable hanging options and also fits perfectly into any interior. It can easily support large stacks of books and other heavy objects. The mounting location must be fixed to the wall with brackets.

The folding table can be additionally equipped with mirrors, a shelf and other elements that fold together with the tabletop. Most often, the design has a rectangular shape of different lengths and widths. Sometimes there are options with rounded edges. Most models are equipped with one folding leg in the center, which can provide additional stability.

Wall table

The modern furniture market offers a wide variety of folding structures that look like a window sill. A folding table mounted to a wall is equipped with a specialized mechanism that is fixed to the partition. The tabletop is mounted in a raised position, and at the time of use it is lowered. To make it, choose wood or chipboard. This option is considered the simplest and most inexpensive, but is inferior to traditional models in terms of reliability. A hanging table is most often used in situations where space in the room is very limited.

Folding bar counter

This option has a long and narrow tabletop. The bar table is characterized by large capacity. Up to 5 people can sit behind it. Ideal for a kitchen decorated in a modern style. Often used in studio apartments, as it allows you to divide the space into several functional areas. Some models have a foot for installation on the floor, but there are also simple options with the simplest mobile design. Mirrors, glass and other decorative elements can be used as decoration.

Folding table

This retro variety is somewhat reminiscent of transformable side tables, but has one fundamental difference: the dimensions of the tabletop can be adjusted. It is impossible to completely bring the product into a vertical position. When folded, the design takes up less space and turns into a convenient cabinet. This option is often used on balconies and in very small kitchens. The main advantage is compactness and versatility, but the design is quite fragile, which is why it is not recommended to force it with heavy objects.

Mobile folding table

Quite an interesting option, which when folded has the most compact dimensions and can be used as a shelf or cabinet, and if you expand the tabletop, you get a full-fledged work or kitchen table. The main difference between these models is their installation on vertical guides, which make the product as mobile as possible. It becomes possible to move the table along one wall. Most often, such structures are equipped with folding legs, which serve as additional support.

Master class No. 2: for the kitchen

You can make a folding table for the kitchen with your own hands. If necessary, it folds easily. Functional furniture is suitable for both the kitchen and any other room.

Take the following materials and tools:

• board 2.5 cm thick;
• two strips 2 meters long and 3.5 cm in diameter;
• two large and small loops;
• nuts;
• drilling machines;
• jigsaw;
• white varnish.

The master class includes the following steps: First, the legs are cut out.
It is important to choose the right height, for example, 60 cm. Planks are cut according to the size of the slab. As a result, the design should look like a photo frame. All parts are connected using special fasteners.

The frame is attached with hinges to the tabletop.

The structure is fixed to the wall using long hinges.

This is what the finished mount for folding tables looks like. The furniture can then be coated in any color that will match the surrounding interior.

In the photo you can see a drawing and diagram of a similar design.

If the table is painted black, it can be used to decorate the living room. Stylish furniture will be an excellent addition to a modern interior.

You can paint only the tabletop white, leaving the support in a natural shade. The legs can be varnished.

The flat, retractable support is even more convenient to use. As a rule, it has the shape of a triangle. The part is fixed on the wall in the same way as the lid - with hinges. If it is necessary to unfold the table, both the tabletop and the support are tilted (to the side), which is fixed in different ways, for example, using magnets or a latch.

Even such simple designs can have different structures. A folding table can be installed in an open place or disguised as an element of any structure.

Hidden tables

The tabletop can be camouflaged to look like an interior item, such as a shelf or cabinet. If necessary, its door can be opened to form a small table suitable for various activities.

Combination of table and cabinet
Another option for a cabinet in combination with a folding table

Model with retractable support

The structure consists of a tabletop fixed to the wall using hinges and a leg that serves as a support.

Folding table for a small kitchen. the free edge rests on a steel leg. When installing the cover in a horizontal position, a support is pulled out under it, which ensures the rigidity of the structure.

Table with a retractable leg The leg itself can be removable, not connected to the main structure. To fix it, a special recess is made at the bottom of the tabletop. This arrangement ensures minimal protrusion of the folded table from the wall. More convenient to use is a table with an attached support, which moves due to a hinge mechanism.

Table with folding support

The flat, retractable support is even more convenient to use. As a rule, it has the shape of a triangle. The part is fixed on the wall in the same way as the lid - with hinges. If it is necessary to unfold the table, both the tabletop and the support are tilted (to the side), which is fixed in different ways, for example, using magnets or a latch.

Table with a folding support The model looks attractive, but the disadvantage of this design is the need for additional space for support, due to which the tabletop protrudes more relative to the wall.

Bracket design

Not so long ago, mechanical metal brackets appeared that allow the table to be installed and assembled very quickly. Moreover, the tabletop is fixed very securely. To unfold the structure, you simply lift the lid. The mechanism will lock on its own. When it's time to assemble the table, you need to either lift the tabletop slightly or press the lever. In this case, the most stringent requirements are imposed on the quality of the fittings, since the functioning of the structure depends on the reliability of the fittings. There are frequent cases of blocking of cheap devices.

Bracket design

Mechanism on gas shock absorbers

Mechanisms developed recently ensure smooth operation and reliable fixation of the folding panel.
To lift the lid, open the latch. Instantly, under the influence of the gas in the cylinders, the piston is pushed out, as a result of which the tabletop rises. Gas shock absorbers are designed quite simply, they are compact, inexpensive, work quickly and last a long time. As you can see, there are a lot of design options for reading, eating, working on a computer, cutting up food or doing homework. It is possible to choose the optimal one based on your own requirements, purpose and cost. Mechanism on gas shock absorbers

Step-by-step master class on self-production

Wanting to save money, many people make a table with their own hands. This is not difficult, but requires compliance with certain requirements.

Wall mounted kitchen wall mounted

To make a folding table with your own hands, you will need to prepare plywood sheets; you can also use chipboard or MDF as a basis. Additionally, you will need screws, hinges, confirmations and anchors.

Manufacturing algorithm:

1. Prepare a drawing of the model and parts separately. Moreover, it is necessary to draw a diagram according to the exact dimensions of the future product.
2. To make a tabletop, use an electric jigsaw to cut the selected material, giving it the desired shape.
3. Using a sanding machine, sand the edges of the product and cover them with special tape.
4. Prepare supports. This can be a triangle or a support element in the shape of the letter P. For a small wall-mounted tabletop, a triangular-shaped support is most suitable. It is secured with a bracket on the wall and hinges to the tabletop. Using two strips on both sides, the structure can be strengthened.
5. Attach the triangular support to the back.
6. Mount the structure to the tabletop using hinges.
7. Attach the wall table itself.

A suitable place to install a wall-mounted folding table is the wall next to the window sill.

Cut the material into the desired shape, process the edges of the product and cover it with special tape Prepare supports

Paint the parts, attach the triangular support to the back, mount the structure to the tabletop Attach the wall-mounted table

Desk folding with cabinet

You need to prepare:

• sheet material for assembling the cabinet box, the thickness of which is at least 16 mm;
• a block for fixing the structure to the wall;
• chipboard or MDF sheets for countertops;
• strip for mounting the product on the wall;
• wooden beams for making supports.

In addition, you will need screws, furniture corners, and a bracket. The manufacturing process itself differs little from assembling a regular wall table, because the cabinet is a box without a back wall:

1. The parts are fastened with self-tapping screws and reinforced with metal furniture corners. If desired, shelves and partitions can be secured inside the cabinet using corners.
2. The tabletop is cut to the size of the previously made box. The edges are processed and secured to the bottom crossbar of the cabinet using brackets.
3. Assemble a U-shaped support from the beams and fix it with loops to the tabletop.
4. They make fasteners that will hold the tabletop in the assembled state. The table is ready.

Installing such a model does not require a lot of time and effort; the main thing is to choose the right place so that nothing interferes with the product’s unfolding and folding.

Fasten the parts with self-tapping screws and reinforce with metal furniture corners

Cut the tabletop to the size of the box, trim the edges and secure it to the cabinet crossbar

Assemble the support and attach it to the tabletop Make fasteners, install the structure on the wall If desired, attach shelves inside the cabinet

Table details

To build a folding table, you need to prepare the following parts:

• table top
• bottom and top of the shelf
• sides and partitions
• back

As accessories, it is necessary to prepare self-tapping screws, hinges, confirmants and anchors.

During the work you can use the following tools:

• electric jigsaw (hacksaw or regular jigsaw)
• manual milling machine
• grinder
• screwdriver
• drill and set of drill bits

They also use a ruler, tape measure, pencil, level and construction square.

Having prepared the parts and the necessary tools, you can begin to work.

Required Tools

If you need to make a folding table for a balcony, which will also look like a professional design, then you simply won’t be able to do it without modern tools.

By the way, in addition to hand tools, you also need electric ones. Here is a list of tools without which a wall-mounted folding table will not work:

A jigsaw is a must. It will help you cut table material accurately and efficiently. You can replace it with a hacksaw. But using it, you can forget about the perfect cut; for it, the cut will have to be polished.

A milling machine and attachments for it will be needed for processing edges, drilling holes and cutting grooves. Plus, it can be used to cut out decor for furniture.

A sander will be needed to smooth the surfaces.

You definitely can’t do without an electric drill. It will be used to drill holes. Plus, it requires drills for concrete and wood.

Clamps may be needed if glue and screed are used as temporary fasteners. They should not be used as permanent fixtures.

You will also need an office for marking (markers, tape measures), if you have a level and a square, this will be a plus.

You can replace them with manual analogues, but it will take more time. It’s too early to give recommendations on the quantity and type of material, because everything is individual.

Furniture panel - what is it?

So, what is a furniture panel? It is a specially created material for making furniture. It is made by connecting several pieces of wood of the same size together into a single structure, which ensures increased strength and ease of use. In addition, there are cheaper materials made from wood waste, which are then pressed and glued together to ensure reliability for further use.

Models

Furniture manufacturers offer a wide range of tables, which differ in tabletop shapes, design types, sizes, fastening features, the presence or absence of certain components (for example, legs), and materials. In addition, the models differ in design: color and texture of the countertop surface. There are expensive options made from natural materials (solid wood or glass) and more budget ones that imitate natural stone or valuable wood species (most often plastic or veneered surfaces). Some tables are complemented by decorative inserts from other materials, carvings, inlays, and furniture fittings.

Forms

Folding tables are available with four tabletop shapes:

• Square. Ideal for a small family of three.
• Rectangular. The tabletop of the model is more spacious and can be used even for modest feasts with guests. Such folding tables are fixed both across the wall and along it.
• Semicircular. Tabletops of this shape have a small capacity and are therefore rarely used. Although the option looks original and suits classic interiors and Art Nouveau furnishings.
• Round and oval. The rarest variations. It looks stylish and unusual, but is rarely used due to its small capacity. The option is optimal as a dressing table in the bedroom or a workspace for one person.

In rooms with complex configurations, tables of non-standard shapes can be used. They are usually made to order.

Construction type

By type of design, folding tables are classified into the following types:

• Transformers. They can be wall-mounted or wall-mounted. The main distinguishing feature of the design is its versatility. If desired, it can turn into a compact workplace, replacing a desk, or into a full-fledged dining area.
• Folding table. A simplified version of the transformer, which does not have additional features. When folded, the tabletop assumes a vertical position, but at the same time a static “piece” remains against the wall, so the model is not completely assembled. Can be wall-mounted or wall-mounted. A striking example of the second option is a book-table. It became the first prototype of a folding table, which was familiar to every person from Soviet childhood. It was a tall “coffin” with two tabletops on either side of a narrow board in the middle. The “wings” are usually in a lowered state. When you need to set the table for a holiday, they are raised and fixed in a horizontal position. This piece of furniture really saved large feasts, since its area when unfolded increased several times. At a time when the model did not fold out, its narrow static tabletop was used as a shelf. When assembled, the “book” takes up very little space, but is still inferior to folding tables built into the wall.
• Folding. The simplest and most popular model. The table can be mounted on any vertical surface, be it a wall or the front of a cabinet. In addition to the tabletop, such models are usually equipped with a number of shelves. If the table is located in the kitchen, then they are filled with dishes. When the model is used for work, books and writing materials are stored in the shelves. The design is designed for heavy loads. As a rule, it has no legs, so the fastening to the wall must be reliable so that the table does not collapse at the feet of the owners. The tabletop does not rise, but folds down. This is its main difference from the folding model.
• Mobile folding table. The model is in many ways similar to the previous one, but differs in mobility. The tabletop moves along a guide mounted into the wall. This folding table is convenient for small apartments with a non-standard layout.
• Hanging. Tables without legs. They are compact, as they are not designed for heavy loads.
• Folding bar counter. It features a narrow, elongated tabletop. Ideal for small kitchens. Fixed high, like a classic bar counter. Often complemented by the same high chairs.

Although transformers and folding tables belong to the folding category, in classic models the tabletops are lowered during folding, and not raised, as happens in the two cases described above.

How to attach a folding table to a wall or shelf

Most pre-fabricated folding wall tops have the top attached to a wide metal angle.

Often the depth of the upper stationary part (base) does not allow the installation of consoles. Therefore, you can replace the corner with a stiffening rib with small jumpers, on which the base is placed. Or use ready-made components for hanging screens, onto which you simply screw a shelf with a folding part.

Just like on book tables, it is easier and cheaper to use piano and card hinges to attach a folding table top. They are flat and usually do not interfere with the use of the work surface.

Piano and card loops

In the case of a folding top walk-in table, the protruding “edge” of the piano hinge on the surface of the reception desk or counter does not add aesthetics. Therefore, they are often replaced with ordinary furniture hinges for false panels. Provided, of course, that the protruding hinge arm on the reverse side of the folding tabletop does not interfere in any way.

There are also many options for hidden mezzanine hinges that require careful insertion into the end or back side of the folding table.

Features of folding tables

For families with average income, it is unrealistic to purchase a spacious home with a kitchen of more than twenty square meters. In this regard, they have to go to all sorts of sophistication, coming up with furnishing options for a small space.

Folding tables provide an opportunity to save free space not only in residential premises and on balconies, but also in garages. In addition, they fit perfectly into the interior and can be manufactured in two versions. The first is made in the form of a narrow strip, and the second is an object that merges with the wall.

When unfolded, the models have different sizes. They can be a table for one or two people or a full table that can accommodate several people at once.

Device

The working surface of the folding versions is mounted to the wall using a hinged mount with one or more hinges. This makes it possible to easily fold or unfold the structure.

The table top has a support that can either fold or move apart, resting against the wall and providing an additional point of support. As the table top takes on a horizontal position, it rises up and the leg moves to the side. This design solution provides balance to the folding table.

At the same time, there are options with a support that is pre-attached to the bottom of the table cover and unfolds simultaneously with it. A support is mounted to one side of this model, and hinged fasteners are mounted to the other.

Certain types of folding surfaces unfold and fold according to the accordion principle, that is, in one movement. Such structures unfold in one moment, which is an important advantage.

Of great interest are the types of tables with a flat support, made in the form of a triangle and attached to the wall under the tabletop. Models on brackets installed without hinges and made of metal or stainless steel are considered no less successful.

Advantages

The folding system can be placed in any part of the room

To do this, it is important to decide on the type of model and materials for its implementation.

This solution has a number of advantages:

1. Compactness and ease of use, which are considered one of the main attractive qualities.
2. The ability to blend perfectly with the overall interior of the room.
3. Versatility, allowing the structure to be used not only as a table, but also for other household needs, for example, for ironing clothes.
4. Simplicity and reliability in operation.
5. Easy installation.
6. Reasonable price.

Flaws

The disadvantage of folding options is their small size. The structure attached to the wall is not capable of accommodating a large number of people. As a rule, no more than seven people can sit behind such a model.

Types of tables

Balcony tables differ from each other in size, shape, material, and folding method. The shape of the tabletop can be rectangular, square, semicircular, triangular. The most popular dimensions of a miniature folding table for a typical loggia are 60 x 40 cm. The height at which the tabletop is fixed is approximately 70-75 cm. For work tables, the length and width can reach from 80 and 50 cm, respectively. Such specimens are suitable for spacious loggias, which can be converted into an office.

There are several types of tables based on the type of transformation. Each case has its own method of attaching and transforming the tabletop: Classic version with hinges. The canvas is fixed to the wall using loops. When unfolding the table, the legs are pulled out of the recesses and the table top is placed on them. The design is on a frame. The tabletop and folding frame, consisting of one or two elements, are secured to the wall with hinges. The product turns out to be more dimensional. Table-stand. The folding table has an additional storage compartment. Such a piece of furniture is multifunctional, but takes up a certain place on the balcony.

This indentation will be required for the free installation of the upper wall strip.

A ready-made folding table for a balcony, by definition, saves you from spending time and effort on its installation. There is no need to come up with its design, look for a suitable material and study manufacturing technology. However, a number of problems may arise with the purchased table:

• it is very difficult to choose the shape and dimensions of a folding table that are most suitable for the conditions of a particular balcony;
• factory assembly does not at all guarantee acceptable quality;
• in the event of a breakdown, repair difficulties may arise due to not always standard fittings;
• the price of a table for a balcony sometimes seems unreasonably high.

A self-made folding table is free of all these disadvantages:

• nothing prevents you from giving it the desired shape;
• You don’t have to worry about the build quality, since it is personally checked;
• both repairs and any modernization can be carried out at any time. Homemade tables do not use any particularly exclusive materials or components. Everything can be replaced and improved with the same available materials.

A DIY folding table brings pleasure and increases self-esteem.

Advantages and disadvantages

Folding tables for the kitchen have the following advantages:

• they significantly save kitchen space when they are not needed;
• the models are compact, but sufficient to accommodate a minimum amount of utensils for meals;
• the products are variable in design, they are made from different materials, due to which you can choose an option taking into account the furniture already available in the kitchen;
• models can be an independent element of the dining area or be part of a set with a folding chair of a similar design;
• depending on the type of product, installation differs, but it is not complicated; every head of the family can install such a table;
• products differ in the shape of the tabletop: the folding part can be rectangular, semicircular or even semi-oval;
• such tables can be installed not only along walls: they look great near a window, when closed they present a laconic panel of small width and a length equal to the window opening;
• such products can be purchased in stores or made independently; this will not take much time, and the manufacturing process itself does not require a large amount of materials and labor;
• the color schemes of these products can be varied, due to this, folding tables can become a support for a kitchen apron or facades of a colored set;
• such products can replace children's tables in small apartments;
• when there is enough space in the kitchen, such tables can be used as a mini-greenhouse, mounted under the window of the room;
• These pieces of furniture can be placed in the kitchen as an additional shelf-table for small household appliances, for example, a microwave or coffee machine.

However, in addition to the advantages, folding tables also have disadvantages. For example, the load on the fastenings of such products is greater. Considering that they have to be constantly opened and closed, this messes up the transformation mechanism. In addition, household members may get tired of constant assembly and disassembly, and they will want to buy a stationary table. As for the material of manufacture, particle boards are not designed for long-term use. Over time, the fastenings of such structures become weak.

Description of materials

They are used depending on the location and shape of the table.

Plywood, chipboard, MDF

This sheet material is used in the manufacture of countertops. Integrity is the main advantage of the material. Using a jigsaw, you can cut out a tabletop that is ready for use. Only on the cut edges you need to stick a special tape. A table made from this material is light in weight, which allows the tabletop to easily recline.

When choosing one of these materials, plywood deserves more consideration. Especially laminated and moisture resistant. It has a long service life compared to others.

Natural wood

This is an environmentally friendly, elegant, stylish, fairly durable material. When using it to make a table, two conditions must be met:

• the right type of wood
• the presence of special equipment due to complex manufacturing technology.

These factors affect the cost of the product, even if you make it yourself. If you have your own hand router, or at least a jigsaw and a wooden board, you can easily build a wall-mounted kitchen table.

Glass

Thick tempered glass is used for tabletops.

This type of countertops must be ordered separately, since this material will not be cut at home. It is used extremely rarely.

The choice of material is influenced by the location where the built-in table will be installed. Made from wood or glass, it will look different when installed separately from other pieces of furniture. MDF, chipboard and plywood are considered universal materials.

The shapes of countertops can be very diverse, but the most popular are square, rectangular, round and semicircular.

An electric jigsaw is used to cut the selected material into the required shape. The edges are processed with a sanding machine and covered with a special tape to give it a marketable appearance.

What is a folding table?

When assembled, the folding table is a thin strip that not only fits neatly along the wall, but practically merges with it. When the structure unfolds, it turns into a full-fledged tabletop, which can accommodate a whole family or company. The table is fixed on special triangular or U-shaped supports.

Folding table - functional furniture for a small room

Such furniture has a number of advantages:

1. Compact dimensions. A folding table can be placed in any, even the smallest room, without cluttering up the space at all. You are free to choose any area of ​​the room, because you do not need to adapt to the configuration of the model.
2. Functionality. Despite its modest size, the furniture is absolutely practical and fulfills all its direct tasks.
3. Stylish design. The laconic transforming table will harmoniously fit into the interior, gracefully complementing its design ensemble.
4. Ease of installation. Since folding tables are sold ready-made, anyone can install the furniture: attach the piece to the wall, adjust its position, check how the support and tabletop function, and then attach it to the wall using ordinary hinges and self-tapping screws. To perform such work, you do not need any special tools or special knowledge.

If you don’t want to spend money on a ready-made model, assemble it yourself:

• prepare a tabletop of the required size and decorate it to your liking;
• Buy support strips from a hardware store and secure them with hinges at the bottom of the tabletop. And then it’s just a matter of small things – installation to the wall.

Types of fastenings

You understand that the design of a do-it-yourself folding table can vary significantly from case to case. The most practical option would be a simple folding table, the tabletop of which will rise when needed and lower when there is no need for a table. The most important thing in this is what the implementation of the locking mechanism will be.

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If we make a kitchen folding table with our own hands, then we need to take into account the size of the room. Most likely, if you are considering this option, your kitchen is quite small.

In this case, the leg can be hidden under the tabletop, while the latter will have a semicircular shape. Everything so that the corners do not interfere with passing by.

This DIY wall-mounted folding table will have a number of design features. Let's start with the fact that the tabletop itself will not be attached directly to the wall, then you will understand why.

First, we must take care of the mounting of the leg, which will be placed on the wall, and the base of the tabletop, which will be located a little higher.

We will make the leg triangular so that the support is maximum, but at the same time it does not interfere with the legs. The triangle will be rectangular so that when opened, its base and tabletop will have tight contact with its sides.

In this case, the tabletop will not be mounted on the wall itself, but on an additional base, as mentioned earlier. This is necessary in order to create a gap between the wall and the tabletop - the closed leg with its cooling will be hidden in it.

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Making a table for the balcony with your own hands

If the finished products are not satisfactory in size, appearance or cost, there is always the opportunity to assemble a folding structure yourself. Moreover, the process does not cause any particular difficulties.

To manufacture the structure, you need to stock up on material, hinges and fasteners. The tabletop can be cut from furniture board, thick plywood, chipboard or MDF.

What is the difference between MDF and laminated chipboard?

If slabs are used, it is recommended to finish the ends with an edge that matches the color. To do this, you will need an iron and a sharp knife to cut off the excess. When installing a table in a room decorated with wood, a wooden table top will look more harmonious.

An option is proposed for producing the simplest design of a folding table from furniture panels for a balcony.

Two parts made of chipboard will be used as supports (can also be made of wood, but we used what was at hand). You can make one support, but the table turns out to be quite large, so for the strength of the structure it is better to install two support elements that fold in different directions. You will also need two bars. One is for fastening the tabletop, the second is for fixing the supports.

Table. Materials and equipment for making a table.

Step 1.

The furniture board is varnished and dried.

Furniture board

If necessary, the tabletop can be polished (before applying paint)

Step 2.

Markings are applied to the wall to secure the block. It will be installed at a height of 700 mm from the floor. When carrying out work, you must use a level.

Step 3.

Using four self-tapping screws, the block is fixed to the wall.

Step 4.

At a distance of 30 mm from the edges, two door hinges are attached to it.

Step 5.

Two triangular parts are cut out of a piece of laminated chipboard (or the triangles are assembled from timber), which will serve as supports.

Assembling a triangular support from bars

The bars are fastened with self-tapping screws and a perforated corner. For reliability, all joints are glued with wood glue

Step 6.

Both support legs are applied vertically. Marks are made for attaching piano (furniture) hinges.

Step 7

Furniture hinges are attached with self-tapping screws to the legs and the wall.

The corners are held on piano hinges

This is what the supports look like when folded

Step 8

A block is attached to the inside of the tabletop (parallel to the first one). The distance from the outer edge is 200 mm.

Step 10. The table top is placed on top of a block with hinges attached to the wall. On the inside, it is attached with self-tapping screws to the free hinge flap.

The tabletop is supported by two short hinges located horizontally. There is a beam fixed under the tabletop

Folded table

A functional and reliable structure that does not take up extra space on the balcony is ready. If necessary, the table top rises, the legs move at an angle to the center and securely hold the structure.

Compact structures purchased from the manufacturer or assembled with your own hands, distinguished by budget and functionality, in some cases are irreplaceable interior items.

Materials

In addition to the dimensions, the material from which the table is made is important. Most often for the manufacture of such furniture they use:

1. Plywood. Popular due to its environmental friendliness and low cost. Sheets are obtained by gluing 3 or more layers of veneer with urea resin. It can be used both in its natural form and after painting or veneering.
2. Chipboard is the cheapest option; it is a board made of wood particles (sawdust, shavings) glued together with formaldehyde resin. It is easy to process; with the help of veneering and lamination, different textures of the material can be achieved.
3. MDF is a board produced by dry pressing of tiny wood chips under high temperatures and pressure. Urea resins and modified melamine are used for gluing. When facing, dowels, plastic, and film are used.

The optimal material thickness for making folding tables is 19–23 mm. Brackets are most often used as a lifting mechanism, which are attached to the wall with dowels. Furniture hinges and screws are required for fittings. The tools you need to prepare are a screwdriver and a drill.

Plywood

Chipboard

MDF

Required materials and tools

Supports used in the product

To securely fix it, supports are made for the table. They may look like a triangular headscarf or the letter P.

If the structure is short, use a triangular support. The bracket is attached with hinges under the bottom of the tabletop. You cannot install a folding table in this way above the radiator, since the entire weight of the product will fall on it.

A triangle is suitable when attaching the structure to the wall surface. By installing two strips on the sides, you can strengthen it.

To make U-shaped supports, beams connected to each other by the letter P are used.

They are installed under the bottom of the tabletop, on the sides. The finished structure is attached to the tabletop using hinges. This will allow you to fold the finished table.

Stage 7: Checking the folding mechanism

After installing the table, you need to check how well its folding mechanism works.

If the brackets are not installed parallel or at the same level, this will lead to friction between the bracket and the surface of the tabletop or will not allow the table to be folded at all. This can be avoided if everything is done well at the second stage.

Nuances of choice

Choosing a folding table for the kitchen consists of several key criteria.

To size

To choose the right option, you need to inspect the kitchen: as a rule, compact furniture is installed in a limited space. Therefore, the table should be just as compact. If the product will often stand open, the remaining space for movement around the kitchen should not be less than 1 m. At the same time, the size of the tabletop itself should be sufficient for at least two users to fit behind it. Such a product can also be placed in a bachelor’s home.

By shape

In conditions of limited kitchen space, it is preferable to use tables with streamlined shapes. They do not have corners, so the user will not be injured in case of accidental mechanical contact. If the rest of the furniture in the kitchen has strict right angles, you will have to select a similar table, mounting it in a place where there is more freedom to move

In this case, you need to pay attention to the shape of the chairs, because there should be harmony in everything. For example, if the kitchen has an L-shaped set with a wavy edge of the corner tabletop, it is quite appropriate to complement it with a round-shaped table

By color

Color solutions for folding tables can be varied. However, when purchasing or ordering, it is necessary to take into account the shade of existing furniture. In this case, you can take a table that doesn’t have to be tone on tone: a subtone similar to the main color will also work. The color of the table is preferably light, which allows you to add a spot of light into the interior of a small kitchen, visually reducing the heaviness of a limited space.

By configuration and practicality

A folding table for the kitchen can be wall-mounted (built into the wall) or attached. Which option is better, everyone decides for themselves. A wall-mounted folding side table is good because it does not need to be constantly opened and closed. This saves time and effort, as well as saving wear on the working mechanism. A bachelor doesn’t have to reveal it every day: it’s enough to do it once.

If you plan to purchase a small table for small household appliances, it is preferable to buy an option with a reliable support: it will provide less load on the work surface. In this case, the shape of the tabletop of the product can be either rectangular or semicircular. Such products are more reliable than wall-mounted analogues. Those who want to buy a wall-mounted folding table should take into account: you can’t put a lot on it. In addition, such a purchase is impossible if the walls in the apartment are porous. They simply will not be able to support the structure with additional load.

By design

When choosing one model or another, it is important to consider: it must match the style of the interior in which the kitchen is designed. This may be reflected in the shape, color, type of material used

For the Provence style, it is important to use natural material, so it is better that the table is made of wood. Moreover, this style is also demanding in terms of color: the product must be painted light or white.

In addition, unlike other branches of interior design, such a table can be decorated with plates or textile napkins. If we consider the modern direction of design, it is important to rely on the unique texture of the material used. For example, for the Art Nouveau style it is important to have chrome textures in the interior, which allows you to successfully fit into it a kitchen table made of plastic and glossy metal supports. You can also take as a basis an option made from wood derivatives, supplementing them with metal fasteners and supports.

For classics, a table made of wood is desirable. It is problematic to fit into an interior with elements of palace solemnity furniture, the main purpose of which is to save space. Classics strive for massive furniture, its naturalness and high cost.

To learn how to make a kitchen table from a countertop with your own hands, watch the video below.

Advantages of making furniture from furniture panels with your own hands

In order to assemble furniture with your own hands, you do not have to be a professional carpenter or carpenter. You just need to have the desire, a sufficient amount of time and, of course, the necessary set of tools.

What are of homemade kitchen furniture

• Individual product of exclusive quality;
• Saving money;
• Gaining invaluable experience;
• Incomparable pleasure from the result of the work.

Furniture made to specific measurements will perfectly fit into the individual dimensions and complex curves of the kitchen, which in any other case cannot be circumvented. As for the time spent on making furniture, believe me, it’s worth it.

Comfortable table top for the balcony

The table on your balcony can be either folding or hanging, mounted, or wall-mounted. You can buy a ready-made version, or you can make a table yourself. For example, it will be a wide tabletop on the windowsill, and next to it there will be side stools. And all this will take up so little space that other furniture, for example, a sofa, cabinet, armchair, etc., will fit on the balcony.

You can decorate the tabletop yourself. Today, various stencils are sold, such that a person, even without any artistic skills, can make a gorgeous pattern, image, etc. You can make a stained glass tabletop by decorating it with pieces of colored glass or plastic.

You can use decoupage to decorate your tabletop. Find interesting motifs that match the style of the balcony design and glue them to the tabletop, and then apply several layers of special varnish.

The tabletop can be:

• Just white, like an extended window sill;
• Marbled;
• Just wooden, varnished;
• Multi-colored - simply stick thin strips of multi-colored tape to the tabletop one at a time.

Advantages of using furniture panels to create a kitchen

• Furniture panels made from softwood are an environmentally friendly product. They are mainly used to make office furniture, kitchen furniture and residential furniture.
• There are also furniture panels made from chipboard, which contain pressed wood shavings with a special glue. They do not have disadvantages unlike natural wood. For example, laminated boards have good moisture resistance and are least susceptible to deformation.
• They are quite durable and easy to work with.
• The laminated surface of chipboard panels is available in a variety of wood colors, allowing you to create furniture to match your interior.
• Another advantage of such shields is their relatively low cost. That's why they are in such great demand.
• Do-it-yourself kitchen furniture made from furniture panels is an excellent option for obtaining a high-quality exclusive furniture design.

Advantages and disadvantages of folding tables

Folding tables have several advantages:

• Compact and space saving. When folded, it is almost invisible. The freed up space can be used at your discretion. Of course, the space for the spread of the tabletop cannot be taken up by other, massive furniture.
• Ergonomics.
• Multifunctionality. Folding tables can be used as a workplace, dining area, or ironing board.
• Safety, simplicity and ease of use. Even a child can cope with the operation algorithm of the lifting mechanism. All that is required to bring the tabletop into a horizontal position is to raise (or lower, as in some models) it and lock it.

A variety of models allows you to choose the ideal piece of furniture for a specific interior. They are most popular in studios and small apartments. The only disadvantages include the small capacity of the folding table. Such designs, as a rule, have small tabletops, which is determined by the features of the lifting mechanism, and can accommodate no more than 4-5 people. It is also worth considering that you can seat guests at dinner, for example, only on three sides, since the fourth, adjacent to the wall, will become a “dead zone”. Due to the fact that most folding tables are static, they cannot be moved or rearranged to another place where this furniture is currently needed.

Folding bed-table

An ideal option for saving space in a small bedroom or nursery would be a folding bed-table. Not everyone can make such a design on their own, but you can try.

Moreover, there is a chance to modernize a factory folding bed-shelf or bed-wardrobe. However, there are a lot of models that represent a real complex, which includes a bed, a system of cabinet shelves, and a table.

At the same time, the entire structure can be quickly transformed into a sleeping or working compartment.

There are simpler models in which the tabletop is a mattress stand. This design resembles a regular folding sofa. When disassembled, it is no different from a sofa or bed, and with the mattress frame raised, it is a compact table.

Table transformer

The main advantage of transforming tables is that they are most convenient to pull out and push apart. It is often used in the kitchen, instantly turning the work area into a mobile dining room. Once the meal is over, the table can be transformed into a more compact version or even “disguised” among the kitchen attributes.

For a small kitchen, miniature tables are provided that lack a supporting leg or are equipped with only one such part. It is advisable not to overload such structures.

A transforming table will come in handy in a student’s room, who can study in the reading area at any convenient time. Then, having folded the folding transformer and freed up space, start playing games and other active entertainment.

Step 4: Choosing a Height for a Wall Desk

Choosing the right height for your desk is an important part. A few centimeters of error can lead to great discomfort for you. For my wall-mounted table, the height of 70 cm from the floor turned out to be convenient when sitting on a stool in the kitchen.

Mark the height on the left and right using masking tape (paper) or draw a line with a pencil.

Use some objects to position the folding table at the desired height.

Folding table with wall mounting

At first, mounting to the wall does not seem like a very rational solution. But this is only at first glance. In fact, if you manage your space wisely, you can easily use never-used square meters.

Where? Above the central heating radiator. Great solution because:

There are quite a lot of advantages of this design, but presenting a drawing is completely useless, since everyone’s conditions are different.

The main design elements of this folding table are the wall mounting system.

This can be either a metal corner sewn to a concrete wall with dowels, or a wooden beam as a base. It is quite simple to assemble the structure based on furniture fittings; we have already found several options for such a table and presented them in the form of pictures. Good decision, isn't it?

Stage 6: Leveling the table

If you doubt that you have fixed the table to the wall strictly horizontally, then it would be a good idea to check it using a building level. This will help clear your doubts or indicate that adjustments are needed.

Selection of materials

If you are still determined to figure out how to make a folding table with fastenings yourself, you must first understand the materials.

You can use wood and its derivatives, metal, glass, plastic.

All options except wood, however, look normal only if you buy a ready-made structure, and metal itself looks ambiguous if we are talking about a tabletop. In principle, we do not consider plastic, but metal is difficult to work with and that’s enough.

Since we have chosen wood, we are now making our own drawings of the folding table. If you don’t want to do this, you can look for ready-made drawings on the Internet.

We do not recommend figuring out how to make a folding table from a cabinet yourself for people who have a low level of skills in working with wood and drawings.

Glass tables look beautiful, interesting, fresh. The problem is that almost all home-made tables using glass look completely different from their store-bought counterparts. However, if you really like this material, you can use it to decorate the table.

This is best done with a simple table design that closes downwards. In this case, we need a sheet of glass that will completely match our tabletop in shape. It can be either cut from existing glass or ordered ready-made.

The second case is more preferable because it is worth ordering tempered glass so that it is not afraid of light impacts or hot objects - this is very important in the kitchen, for example.

Next comes fixing the glass. There are two options - using a bounding box or using point fastenings. In the first case, there should be a frame around the perimeter of the tabletop, which is installed on top of the glass. The second option involves creating paired holes in the glass and tabletop through which the connection will be made.

We take ready-made brackets

The easiest way to make a folding table with wall mounting is to use special folding brackets. You just need to make a table top from boards, chipboard, MDF or other material and screw the bracket to it with screws.

Afterwards, secure the finished structure to the wall using metal spacers (we do not recommend using plastic ones, as they are too weak).

The bracket costs between 1500-2500 rubles. You can buy it in some furniture fittings stores.

Assembling a folding table using ready-made mechanisms

An assortment of specialized fasteners allows you to relieve the supporting part, increase the load capacity and strength of the structure.

Small metal brackets are a convenient solution for non-standard folding tables that you plan to install yourself.

Paired fasteners are attached to the tabletop at a distance of 6-7 cm from the edge to ensure easy access when folding.

The dimensions of a large shield, designed with your own hands for a kitchen folding table, can be adjusted to fit a standard frame with a lifting mechanism.

Modern developments make it possible to install large folding structures with easy operation with any panel materials.

We create a kitchen cabinet with our own hands

The kitchen cabinet, just like the table, is an equally necessary element of the kitchen set.

The procedure for creating a kitchen cabinet is divided into 3 main stages:

• Initial, or as it is also called the preparatory stage;
• Manufacturing and subsequent installation of cabinet components;
• Cabinet assembly.

To work with it we need:

• Furniture panels in the amount of 7 pieces: 3 pieces measuring 2000 x 600 x 18 mm, 3 pieces measuring 2000 x 400 x 18 mm and 1 panel measuring 2000 x 200 x 18 mm;
• Hardboard sheet;
• A sheet of plywood with a thickness of at least 6 mm;
• Drill;
• Self-tapping screws.

Features of accommodation

The greatest space savings are achieved when placing tables inside shallow niches.

The built-in option allows you to completely camouflage the vertical shield, but this requires special measurement accuracy and the preparation of perfectly smooth corner surfaces for installation.

A transforming table can also become a decorative shield for heating radiators.

In such cases, a perforated or lattice tabletop is used. Placing it under a window in a daylight area provides additional benefits.

Placing a folding table on a free wall allows you to make workpieces from various materials with your own hands, and gives you freedom in choosing both the height and the folding mechanism.

It can be fitted into a furniture wall or combined with folding chairs. A closed table box can serve as a narrow shelf.