How to Make a Board Game Table: A Comprehensive Guide
As a board game enthusiast, having a dedicated table for your games can elevate your gaming experience to the next level. A board game table not only provides a comfortable and organized playing space, but it also becomes a focal point of social gatherings and game nights. If you’re thinking of building your own board game table, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making a board game table, from planning to execution.
Before You Start
Before diving into the construction process, it’s essential to consider a few key factors:
- Purpose: What kind of games do you play? Will it be primarily used for tabletop role-playing games, card games, or a mix of everything?
- Size: How many players will be sitting at the table, and what is the desired playing surface size?
- Material: What type of materials do you have available or prefer? Wooden, metal, or a combination of both?
Designing Your Board Game Table
Before starting the construction process, you need to plan your design. Take the time to sketch out your idea and consider the following elements:
- Layout: How will you layout the playing surface, drawers, shelves, or any other features you want to include?
- Storage: How will you store your games, cards, and accessories?
- Lighting: Will you include any lighting features, such as under-table lamps or accent lighting?
Here’s a sample layout to consider:
| Dimensions (inches) | Material | |
|---|---|---|
| Table Top | 48 x 24 | Wooden top, tempered glass, or HPL (High Pressure Laminate) |
| Legs | 28-30 inches tall | Metal, wood, or a combination of both |
| Drawers/Shelves | Varying sizes | Soft-close drawers and adjustable shelves for game storage |
Gathering Your Materials
With your design in mind, it’s time to gather your materials. Make sure you have the following:
- Table Top: Your chosen material for the table top (wood, glass, or HPL)
- Legs: Your chosen material for the legs (metal, wood, or a combination of both)
- Drawers/Shelves: Material for the drawers and shelves (wood, metal, or MDF)
- Hardware: Screws, brackets, hinges, and other hardware needed for assembly
- Finish: Sandpaper, paint, or stain for finishing and protection
- Glue: For bonding and adhesion
- Sealant: For sealing and waterproofing joints and seams
Assembling Your Board Game Table
With your materials in hand, it’s time to start assembling your table. Follow these steps:
- Base Assembly: Attach the legs to the base plate, ensuring they’re evenly spaced and sturdy
- Table Top Attachment: Attach the table top to the base plate, using your chosen attachment method (screws, glue, or a combination of both)
- Drawer/Shelf Assembly: Assemble the drawers and shelves, ensuring they’re properly aligned and functioning smoothly
- Table Top Finish: Apply your chosen finish to the table top (sandpaper, paint, or stain)
Adding Finishing Touches
Once your table is assembled and finished, it’s time to add the finishing touches:
- Hardware Installation: Install the screws, brackets, and hinges as needed
- Sealant Application: Apply sealant to joints and seams for added protection
- Accessories: Add any accessories, such as coasters, tray, or dice cups
Tips and Variations
- Add a Tablecloth: A removable tablecloth can protect the table from spills and stains, making cleanup a breeze
- Lighting Installation: Add under-table lamps or accent lighting for a more immersive gaming experience
- Adjustable Shelving: Incorporate adjustable shelving to accommodate games of different sizes
- Incorporate Electronics: Consider adding built-in USB ports, power outlets, or speaker systems for an enhanced gaming experience
By following these steps and considering the design, materials, and assembly, you can create a stunning and functional board game table that becomes the centerpiece of your gaming experience.