Slatted Outdoor TABLE

Thermo-wood makes for durabilty and dark good looks

- Ken Burton

It's one thing to have a nice patio, porch, or deck, but to truly make it special, you need to furnish it well. In addition to some great seating (see OnlineEXTRAS), a small occasional table such as the one presented here will go a long way towards making your outdoor space a genuine extension of your home. This little table is designed for both service and longevity. Its low height makes it the perfect companion to hold your morning coffee or evening sundowner beside your favorite chair. Or press it into service as a plant stand. It's made from thermally-modified lumber and joined with stainless steel fasteners so it should last for decades with minimal upkeep. The slatted top won't collect rain water and the splayed legs provide a solid, stable stance. Make one, or a pair and you'll be on your way to gracious outdoor living.

Tapered and splayed legs support a slatted frame top

Relatively thin boards, tapered and glued into an angle iron shape, form the legs. Their splay comes from the slightly trapezoid-shaped aprons that are screwed to the legs' inside faces. The top is joined with mortise and tenon joints and features a series of generously-spaced slats that allow rain water to drain through. The tenons on the slats and top rails are integral to the pieces rather than being cut separately (or using domino tenons). This helps to minimize the chance of water infiltrating the joints and causing rot. Be sure to use a good, weather-resistant glue throughout the build. I went with Titebond III.

Make the legs: taper, glue, taper, bevel