Measure the opening of the container that will be used to hold ice and drinks. Using the measurements, mark the section in the center of the picnic table that will be removed.

While wearing proper safety goggles, use a saw to carefully cut out the marked section of the picnic table. Make sure that your cut is on the inside of your marks, so the opening is slightly smaller than the container.

Clean the surface with a bucket of soapy water and sponge to remove any dirt and oils before sanding. Let dry.

Use a palm sander to smooth the newly exposed wooden planks, then rinse. Allow surface to dry before painting.

WARNING! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (in US) or contact your local health authority.

Use a roller to apply SuperDeck Semi-Transparent Stain (we used Mountain Ash SW 3540), staining with the grain of the table top.

Using a 4” brush, apply the stain into the wood grain and between planks of the tabletop and seating parts of the table.

To prep the picnic table legs for priming and painting, tape the underside of the newly stained tabletop and seating planks where they meet the legs of the table.

Using a 2 ½” brush for the trim, prime with Exterior Latex Primer (tinted to a P-Shade Grey). Complete with a mini roller and let dry.

Using a 2 ½” brush, edge the table legs with Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex Paint (we used Tricorn Black SW 6258).

Using a mini roller, paint the base of the picnic table legs.

Let dry, and enjoy!

The BEFORE & AFTER…