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

Many people's apartments or houses do not have a large amount of usable space that allows them to place all the necessary pieces of furniture in the household. That is why, in such cases, property owners try to purchase products that would combine several useful functions at once, occupying minimal space in the premises.

One of these pieces of furniture is a transformable table-rack, which has recently enjoyed significant popularity among buyers.

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.

Beautiful examples in the interior

The folding surface is suitable for any purpose. It will help you ergonomically arrange objects in a small area, which will save space and make you feel comfortable.

For kitchen

In a small kitchen with an area of ​​up to 5-8 square meters. m folding tables are simply necessary. Behind them you can seat up to 10 people with the right choice of model and type of arrangement.

Kitchen tables can be placed as follows:

• On top of radiators, further masking the battery design.
• Along the window, using the area of ​​the window sill.
• Along the wall in the form of a folding bar counter.
• Across the kitchen, but such models are usually designed for 2-4 people.

Wall-mounted options can be folded, leaving a shelf or console, or can completely merge with the wall. The dimensions of kitchen models depend only on their functional load and room area. Cutting tables are small, dining tables should be designed for all family members. The decision to place a double folding table in the kitchen looks very interesting. First, a small surface designed for 2-3 people is folded down, and if there is a need to increase the table area, then the second tabletop is lowered.

If the kitchen is used by 1-2 residents, then sometimes a small tea table on one leg is enough. Usually it is round, less often square. However, for a large number of guests, you can provide a surface that can be folded from the wall, which will rest on this table.

For rooms

Hanging tables are widely used to arrange the workplace of a schoolchild or needlewoman. Designers use lightweight, compact models with a minimum set of functions for the interior of a small room or non-residential premises, such as a balcony, workshop, or storage room. More complex multifunctional massive tables are appropriate where space allows. The idea of ​​a wall cabinet with a folding tabletop in the form of a door is not new. However, it is still relevant because it allows you to organize a workspace anywhere: in a room, an interior hallway, and even in the kitchen.

Massive racks with a folding mechanism are more functional. They can withstand heavy loads, so you can even install computers and TVs on them. The use of folding fronts of secretaries in the form of tabletops is a practical invention of yesteryear. Designers organically fit picture tables into any interior. When unfolded, the table opens up a wall cabinet; when folded, it opens up a picture or mirror. A vertical long narrow table is often built into a wardrobe. It is intended for ironing clothes or sewing, and in the absence of a workplace it can be used as a desk.

For balconies

Designers advise to boldly turn small balconies into a mini-office, mini-bar or mini-living room. Sometimes it may seem like there is no room to create a cozy environment. If you approach the choice of interior wisely, it will turn out that even a person ignorant of design matters can do everything. You will need compact multifunctional furniture and a folding table, and many specialists also make chairs and benches folding or lifting. It is enough to throw a couple of soft textile pillows on them, put a cup of hot tea on a suddenly appeared table and light a lamp.

For cafe

Recently, designers have been paying special attention to the appearance of tables, so small cafes are sometimes decorated with no less taste than reputable restaurants. For this, various hanging glass tabletops in wrought-iron frames are used to create cozy places on summer balconies.

Bright variations of folding tables for verandas that accommodate groups from small to large.

In this video you will find a review of a folding multifunctional kitchen table.

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 the 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, process the edges and fasten it to the cabinet crossbar Assemble the support and attach it to the tabletop

Make fasteners, install the structure on the wall. If desired, fix the shelves inside the cabinet

Mechanism for folding tabletop

The finished structure can be attached to the wall using metal spacers

You can build a folding tabletop yourself using furniture fittings. Thanks to it, you can clearly and correctly think through every detail of the future table.

Brackets for attaching a folding table

The material used is chipboard (new or from old furniture). Finally, to give the finished product an attractive look, apply a varnish coating or cover it with self-adhesive paper. Decor at your discretion.

To secure the tabletop, you will need dowels or hinges used in furniture production.

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.

We make our design

Making a folding table for a balcony with your own hands is quite simple, you just need to free one day for this and acquire the necessary amount of desire so as not to leave work halfway.

Attaching the mechanism to the wall

We have compiled a small step-by-step instruction for you that will help you do the job as efficiently as possible. In addition, following all the steps listed above, your table will turn out to be of high quality and quite attractive.

View of the mechanism in working position

Let's get to work:

1. Having collected the necessary materials, draw a rough sketch of the future table and indicate the desired dimensions that will fit the parameters of your balcony. This way you will have a guideline for further work.
2. We will consider assembling a table made of wood, so at the second stage it is necessary to adjust the tabletop to the required parameters. The adjustment is made using an electric jigsaw; you can make not just a square tabletop, but with bends, semicircles and other decorative elements.
3. We attach the tabletop to two curtains, first they are fixed to the board, then using a level, mark the installation location on the wall. We make holes with a hammer drill and fix the tabletop using self-tapping screws and dowels.
4. In order to be able to hide the leg between the board and the wall when closed, the curtains must be attached to the wall through a board or beam with a thickness equal to the thickness of the leg.
5. We measure the distance from the bottom of the tabletop to the floor in order to cut the required piece of wood for the leg. It is attached to the edge of the tabletop in such a way that it is possible to hide it inside the structure.
6. That's all, the table for the balcony is ready, you can use it for your needs.

Of course, curtains are the most primitive and simplest method; today there are fittings systems that are capable of almost automatically controlling the tabletop and making it possible to adjust it.

Caring for the table on the wall

In general, this design does not require any special care. It is enough to wipe off dust and dirt. If in winter the temperature on the balcony is low and the humidity can be high, then it is better to treat all metal elements with a special anti-corrosion agent.

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.

Dimensions

The main factor when purchasing a folding table is its unfolded size. Dimensions should take into account not only the area of ​​the room, but also the number of people to accommodate. The standard table height usually varies from 70 to 75 cm. It provides a comfortable distance from the table top to the knees of the person sitting. For the average person, the following working area standards are accepted: 1.2 m in length and 0.8 m in width. This must be taken into account if the folding table will be used as a desk. If the reclining structure is used as a dining area, then the rules are slightly different.

Round table. For the usual version, the diameter, suitable for 4-6 people, can be from 110 to 135 cm, but for a folding table it should be taken into account that it will not be possible to seat anyone on the wall-mounted side. Thus, in the above example, it is necessary to reduce the number of seats per person.

• Oval table. This design can be mounted both along the wall and across it. The number of seats will depend on the location.
• The rectangular version, similar to the oval model, depends on the method of attachment to the wall.

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.

What is this product?

A transforming table-rack is a multifunctional product , the overall dimensions of which allow it to be conveniently and comfortably placed in a relatively small space of the room.

Transformable table racks have recently become increasingly popular among buyers. This is due to various factors. These include, first of all, the possibility of using this piece of furniture for various purposes. Thanks to this, it is possible not only to correctly use the available space of the room, but also to significantly decorate the interior of the room, making it more original and to some extent unique.

Advantages and disadvantages

Before purchasing a transforming table-rack, you need to pay attention to some of its advantages. The benefits are as follows:

The buyer will have to pay a relatively large amount of his own savings at a time. Despite this, shelving tables with a transformable function are still in great demand today.

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.

Accessories

The list of components included in the design of folding tables varies depending on the model, but the main parts are the same for all.

• The brackets can be folding or sliding. They are usually made from metal alloys. The bracket is selected depending on the style of the interior and the functional load of the table.
• Base plate for fastening the table top. It can be of different shapes, for example, T-shaped, in the shape of the letter P, in the form of a folding leg. Unlike the bracket, the bar is stationary.
• Loops. Depending on the design, manufacturers use tilt-and-turn options, butterfly hinges or piano furniture hinges to connect the tabletop with other elements.
• Anchor bolts for attaching folding table tops to the wall.

• The console for a folding table can serve as an additional shelf or stand for vases, lamps, boxes, books and other interior elements.
• Fasteners for holding the structure in assembled form, for example, locking hooks for folding tables. Experts advise purchasing folding models with an impact lock. This note is especially relevant for glass tabletops, since if the tabletop is not carefully lowered down, it can hit the wall.
• Roller guides for retractable structural elements or for mobile table models moving along a rail along the wall.
• Decorative details to simplify the transformation process: handles, hinges, levers.

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.

Transformable bench - design description, operating principle

This garden bench is a fairly simple design that can easily be transformed into a table with two comfortable benches. And when folded, it is an ordinary bench with a back and handrails. It will not take up much space on the territory of the personal plot, and at the same time it will be able to fully perform all its functions.

Transformable bench assembled for a country house

Functions and convenience of the bench

This is a compact and practical bench that can easily be converted into a fairly spacious table and two comfortable benches. Thanks to its high degree of mobility, it can be installed anywhere in the garden.

The only drawback of such a bench is its rather large weight, since a lot of wooden boards will be needed to make such a complex structure, but it will be quite stable, reliable and durable if everything is done correctly and exactly according to the development instructions in accordance with all technological processes.

Bench - disassembled transformer for a picnic

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.

Dining

Such tables are divided into two types - folding and sliding. When assembled, the sliding table is a regular dining table for 4-6 people. When unfolding, another table top is added. Some models can accommodate up to 12 people.

A folding table when folded takes up little space. It folds like a book and can be stored on the balcony or in the corner of the room. Such a table usually unfolds into two independent sides. Therefore, unlike a sliding one, a folding one is convenient in that you can use only one of its sides, leaving the other folded. This will significantly save space.

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.

How to properly attach a tabletop

In order to attach a folding tabletop with your own hands, you need to stock up on the following set of tools.

• Tape measure, ruler, pencil.
• Screwdriver to speed up work. If the table is made of chipboard or plywood, then it will be difficult to do without this tool.
• An electric drill is necessary for drilling holes when assembling structural elements and attaching them to the wall.
• Set of drills for wood and concrete.

• The simplest is a folding table with one support attached to hinges. The model has many variations. General criteria - simple tabletop shape: square or semicircular, single solid stand, small size. The installation algorithm is as follows. The tabletop is attached to the fastening strip using two butterfly loops, which ensure folding.
• If the table is to be installed on a wall, then first drill holes and drive in dowels. Screwing the mounting bolts into them, install the support.
• After this, the fastening strip with the tabletop is screwed with self-tapping screws.

• Designer tables may contain glass or mirror elements. In this case, before installing the work surface, it is necessary to secure the glass or mirror that is part of the structure.
• For mounted options, either stationary fasteners or fasteners in the form of bolts, angles and hinges are used.
• Folding tabletops are most often secured using hinges, however, factory designs may contain backlashes and closers, which allow the structure to be unfolded and folded more accurately. Typically, fastenings of this type are already complete, so the owner only has to install the fastening strip using conventional methods.

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.

Which color scheme is better?

With the choice of colors and design, the situation is approximately the same as with the material. The preferences of the future owner of the table play a major role.

Quite often young people choose bright, eye-catching colors. But the most important thing is that the table’s color scheme fits into the design of the room in which it will be located.

Some people prefer white for their furniture, while others, on the contrary, consider it to be easily soiled and prefer dark colors for wenge-type furniture. So you can look at a photo of a shelving table on the pages of online stores and make your choice in advance.

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.

Decorating finished furniture

There are several options for decorating a finished table rack, such as:

1. Using sandpaper, you can age the surface of the wood. It must first be coated with silver or gold paint, or varnished.
2. You can decorate the surface of the product using shells, rope, pebbles and other materials.
3. Using special stencils, you can apply an interesting and beautiful design with paints to the surface of the tabletop.
4. You can also make a mosaic by attaching multi-colored pieces of glass, mirrors or small tiles to the surface.
5. In order to give the furniture an old look, you can treat it with a special varnish, which cracks after drying.

The choice of one or another method of decorating a finished table-rack directly depends on the style of the room and the preferences of the owner.

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.

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.

Preparation for construction of the structure: project drawings with dimensions

Before you start building a transforming bench, you need to prepare all the materials and tools, as well as make a good drawing or find it on the Internet.

We offer you a standard drawing, a diagram of a transforming bench with the dimensions indicated on it. The most difficult step is creating a mobile mechanism, so initially it is necessary to prepare all the blanks, which will subsequently be assembled into a single transforming structure.

Drawing of a set of wooden elements for making a transformer bench

Typical drawing of a transforming can

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?

The fourth version of a transforming bench made of metal profile and wood

Materials and tools for construction

A transforming bench made of a metal profile is made similarly to a wooden one, but only with minor changes.

Drawing of a metal bench - transformable with wooden seats

To make such a bench we will need:

• Square metal pipe with a cross section of 25x25x1.5 mm (4 pieces of two meters each and 2 pieces of 1.5 meters each). This way we can save money and have minimal waste.
• Wooden boards - about 8 pieces.
• In addition to the basic tools, we will need a welding machine and a set of electrodes.
• Bolts, nuts, washers.
• Metal paint or water-repellent varnish.
• Antiseptic impregnation for wood.
• Grinding.
• Metal profile for making benches - transformer

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.