Hammocks Swings & Chairs

Nothing looks more stylish and inviting than a sun-drenched, well-laid picnic table. It imbibes feelings of carefree, warm days, fun, relaxation and delectable food. Picnics have been around for hundreds of years, from the elaborate Victorian and Edwardian times where partakers were served in estate parks by liveried footmen, to the more humble – yet still enjoyable – family lunches by riverbanks and the beach.

 
While some might be content to squat on travel blankets, picnic table construction has, like everything else in our lives, come a very long way. Consequently, if you are planning a picnic in your own back yard, patio or garden or even travelling further a field, there’s no reason why your picnic need be anything but a comfortable experience.

Let’s firstly take a look at today’s back yard and domestic picnic tables. They can range from basic all-in-one tables and bench seats to elaborately-decorated, Victorian style tables and chairs and budgets to suit everyone.

All-in-one picnic tables are sometimes constructed from hardwood however, the most popular units are those with aluminium or steel frames with either wood slat or plastic bench seats and picnic table tops. The advantage of these sleigh-framed tables is they are relatively light-weight and easy to move around back yard or to mow under them, if they are placed on a lawn.

Totally plastic all-in-one and three-piece picnic tables made from recycled plastic products are also available. These picnic tables are available in a number of styles including faux timber and retro-modern design. The plus side to these plastic versions – and they are constructed to be long-lasting and durable – is that they require less maintenance than those constructed of timber. Plus, by utilising recycled plastic materials, we also help the environment.

The construction methods of portable picnic tables have improved markedly over the last ten years. What used to be cumbersome contraptions, where setting up or taking down often resulted in bent frames and frazzled minds, have become not only lighter and stronger but also more aesthetic. Their alloy frames are easy to set-up and plastic resin tops and benches offer picnic lovers a kaleidoscope of colours. Some are even packaged with umbrellas.

Timber picnic tables can be constructed from all types of wood – even recycled timber, although the most common timbers used are teak, cedar and pine. While often inspired by the rustic look, fancy timber picnic tables also come in decorative intricately designed and painted timbers with fabric covered cushions for comfort. These compliment more formal back yards and patios and make any outside eating experience a delight.