If you're looking for free plans on how to build a poker table, you will find dozens websites that were created just for this very subject.
The Basics of How to Build a Poker Table
Most poker table building plans are based on the Texas Hold 'em oval design which usually seats about ten players. Building a poker table is a big project with a lot of steps to follow. It is not the type of project that an inexperienced or beginner woodworker could easily build in a few hours. However, if you're familiar with using the tools and materials needed to build a table, you should be able to complete one in two or three days. A good plan should contain the following elements:
- Materials list and cost estimate
- Tools needed for the project
- Steps on how to build the base
- Steps on how to add the legs
- Steps on how to install the foam and felt
- Steps on how to build the rail
- Quality photos of the process from beginning to end
Example of a Typical Material List
Costs and materials will vary from one plan to the next. It can cost anywhere from $100 to over $400 to build your own poker table. Here is what a typical material list will look like:
- Plywood--2 sheets of 4 ft. X 8 ft., 3/4 in.
- Dry wall screws--1 1/2 in.
- Staples
- Glue
- Spray adhesive
- Felt or velveteen
- Playing surface foam
- Rail foam
- Rail vinyl
- Folding table legs
There are also other optional materials you may want for your table such as cup holders, drop boxes, dealer trays, etc. You should look through several different plans to see which ones cover the options you want.
Tools Needed to Build a Poker Table
The cost for building your own poker table will be significantly higher if you don't already own the following tools:
- Jigsaw
- Staple gun
- Electric stapler
- Electric drill/screwdriver
- Drill bits
- Clamps
- Hammer
- Ruler/tape measure
- Utility knife
- Power sander (optional)
Following a Good Plan
There are a lot of people looking for plans on how to build their own poker tables from scratch. Many of those builders enjoyed making their tables and are so proud of them that they want to share their experience and their own spin on how they created their individual tables. This has resulted in an astounding number of great websites on the subject of building poker tables. Some of the best sites include:
Other Styles of Poker Tables
The other two styles of poker tables that people often build for home use is the octagon poker table and the round poker table. Most round poker tables seat five to six players comfortably. An octagon poker tables seats eight players. Some similar versions of this style table are a decagon table (ten players), a hexagon table (six players) and a dodecagon table (twelve players). While plans for these styles are not as abundant as the larger, oval tables, you can still find them online as well. A great resource for finding plans for all styles of tables is Home Poker Tourney.
Before you run out to start buying materials for your table, do your research. Find out which plans include the accessories you want your table to have and which plans are closer to the budget you have in mind.
