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Turn ordinary paving stones into a rugged, budget-friendly patio accent with a single simple trick. This quick DIY transforms basic concrete pavers into a low-maintenance side table that looks right at home among planters, loungers, and outdoor rugs. The build is fast, inexpensive, and perfect for anyone who wants durable outdoor furniture without the custom carpentry or big expense.
Why pavers are ideal for outdoor furniture
Pavers offer a few advantages that make them great for a patio project. They resist weather, are heavy enough to stay put in wind, and come in neutral textures that suit many garden styles. For DIYers, the real draw is cost and availability. Most home improvement stores sell individual blocks or short runs.
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- Weather-proof: Concrete and stone handle sun, rain, and cold without much fuss.
- Low cost: Individual pieces often sell for a few dollars each.
- Simple assembly: No cutting or carpentry required for this table.
Materials to buy and approximate cost
Gathering supplies takes minutes and fits most budgets. You can make this table from common edging and patio stones.
- Four scalloped edging pavers (concrete) — used as legs or supports
- One square patio paver — serves as the tabletop
- One tube of heavy-duty construction adhesive (Liquid Nails or similar)
- Optional: sandpaper, paint, sealant, and a putty knife for finishing
Expect to spend around $20–$30 if you don’t already own glue or tools. Prices vary by store and region, but basic concrete pieces are typically sold for a few dollars apiece.
Choosing the right pavers for strength and style
Select pavers that match in thickness and color if you want a cohesive look. Concrete edging with scalloped sides pairs well visually with a plain square slab. Natural stone adds character but can complicate fit and finish.
- Match heights so the pieces sit flush without wobbling.
- Pick the same color family for a uniform aesthetic.
- Consider weight — denser stones offer more stability.
Tip: If you mix concrete and natural stone, dry-fit the pieces first to confirm they align before applying adhesive.
Step-by-step assembly of the patio side table
Assemble the table where you plan to use it. Once glued together, the piece will be heavy and hard to move without scuffing surfaces.
- Lay the square paver face down on a flat surface.
- Pair two scalloped edging pavers, pressing their flat faces together with adhesive.
- Repeat for the other two edging pavers to create two opposing supports.
- Apply adhesive to the base of both supports and press them into the center of the square slab.
- Adjust placement until the supports form a stable cross or rotated configuration.
- Let the adhesive cure fully, typically overnight.
- Remove any excess glue with a putty knife or screwdriver, then flip the table upright.
Assembly tips for a cleaner finish
- Work on cardboard or a tarp to protect flooring.
- Clamp or weight pieces lightly if adhesive instructions recommend pressure.
- Clean off squeeze-out before it hardens for neater edges.
Styling, finishing, and care for your new patio piece
The finished table can be left raw for a rustic look or finished to match your decor. Small updates make a big difference.
- Paint the slab with masonry paint for a pop of color.
- Seal the surface with an outdoor sealant to protect against stains.
- Top with a tray, vase, or potted plant to elevate the styling.
- Turn a shallow baking pan into a removable tray or planter.
Maintenance is minimal: wipe the top occasionally and re-seal yearly if you’ve painted or stained it.
Common problems and how to avoid them
Some pitfalls are easy to prevent with a bit of planning.
- Uneven pieces can wobble—swap or shim until stable.
- Mixing materials may create visual mismatch or fit issues.
- Insufficient adhesive causes separation—follow manufacturer cure times.
If you prefer a removable tabletop, skip permanent adhesive and use construction brackets or nonpermanent adhesive pads instead. For heavy use, choose the thickest pavers you can find or use multiple slabs for extra height and mass.
