Living Edge Patio Table Tutorial

During the great lockdown of 2020, we learned the value of having dedicated, private outdoor space. Living in Boston, having a patio is truly a rarity, but we didn’t utilize this space as much as it deserved. With impossibly slow shipping speeds and stores locked down, we had to get creative sourcing the pieces of our patio. That’s why when it came to finding the perfect living edge coffee table – we chose to make one.

The best part about this project was that is cost about $50 dollars. A normal living edge table (regardless of shipping) can cost hundreds. That was definitely not in the budget for our little rental in the city. Most of the materials for this living edge patio table were laying around our house from other projects – or – free. I can’t wait to tell you all about it and how we made it in the post below.

Like this DIY Project? find out how I made my couch and how i made my mid-century modern tv stand.

Materials for Living Edge Patio Table

One Slab of wood (called a “cookie”)

Fine grit sandpaper

3 Hair Pin Legs

MinWax Sealant

How we sourced our wood: The best hack for finding a good living edge slab is going to the lumber yard. Not only is it locally sourced – but it is much less expensive. This living edge slab we used was sourced using a “cookie” or the sawed remnant of a tree. You can see it has a marker imperfection on the surface of the round. However, since it was a remnant, the owner gave it to us for free.

Where we sourced the legs: I have worked with DIY hair pin legs before and I have to say the quality is unparalleled. They specialize in helping you create gorgeous furniture at home. The legs come in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors – allowing you to update or create a really lovely piece. We got the raw steel variety. However, since it is not sealed it will rust. If this is going outside and you aren’t looking for the warm, rusted look go with a sealed set. Thank you DIY Hair Pin Legs for giving me legs for this project.

How we sourced our couch (and tiki bar): Great question! We used Facebook marketplace to get this couch for 100s of dollars less than retail.

Instructions

Sand your cookie thoroughly on both sides using an electric sander. You can do this by hand, but it is much faster with the sander. This makes the table even.

Seal both sides with Minwax sealant. I applied five coats, allowing the wood to fully dry in between. I even used a fine grit sandpaper to get any bubbles or imperfections out when painting.

Apply the hair pin legs with a drill.