Kids Train Table Build

How to build a kids train table with step-by-step instructions.
Note: In this video I used pre-finished Birch plywood. I don't recommend painting any pre-finished surface, because the paint doesn't adhere quite as well as regular wood.

[@BethanyKempProfile]

Thanks for making this!

[@josephtruncale]

Thanks for the guidance! I followed your plans and avoided the gotchas mentioned. I built mine with unfinished birch plywood and coated it with white semi gloss paint with a few layers of water-based poly. Ended up using green felt for the top with extreme mounting tape and it's been a hit!

[@jqman5740]

That's great, I'm glad you could learn from a few of my mistakes. The green felt is a great idea, and glad it turned out well!

[@mathwithsam]

@ Melissa and Doug, step up your game because you have some competition here! What a talented dad!

[@shrimpinpat]

Get a scroll blade for the jigsaw you can cut shaper turns

[@jqman5740]

That is actually what I was using, not sure if you can tell in the video. Thanks for the comment!

[@miguelsalgado4330]

what thickness plywood 1/2" or 3/4"?

[@jqman5740]

I recommend 3/4 inch to make the table as sturdy as possible. I can stand on it and it doesn’t bend.

[@mattscoinsnstuff5686]

Great video!

[@jqman5740]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jeffwnelson]

Thanks for the great video! If you have a minute to answer a question, what plywood did you use? Your plywood looked glossy/smooth in the video and most of the plywood I find at my local Home Depot requires sanding, which is easy to burn through that top layer.

[@jqman5740]

Hi Jeff, I used prefinished Birch, and I regret that choice. I would recommend an unfinished plywood like Maple, Redwood, etc. When the surface is glossy smooth, the paint doesn't adhere very well and chips off easily. You shouldn't have to sand the plywood veneer before paint unless the wood finish is lower quality (like sandeply from Home Depot). Good luck!

[@beechconsulting]

Thanks so much

[@beechconsulting]

great job - thanks for the inspiration for me to build one for my Grandson for Christmas - did you use 3/4" plywood?

[@jqman5740]

Yes, 3/4 inch plywood!

[@beechconsulting]

what is the height of the table at the top of the rails?

[@jqman5740]

@@beechconsulting The top edges are 18 inches off the ground. Also, the top surface is 2 inches below the top of the rails. Good luck with your project, and let me know how it turns out!