How to Build the Ultimate Beer Pong Table: Part 3

We're almost done building the Ultimate Beer Pong Table, all that’s left is to apply the varnish. Just to recap, in Part 1 we assembled our beer pong table from a sheet of plywood and set of folding table legs. In Part 2, we designed a stencil and used it to paint a design onto our beer pong table.

Today’s portion of the build is arguably the most important part, by applying a protective coat to our tables, we protect it against the elements. Without varnish, any beer spilt on our tables runs the risk of ruining the paint job or the wood for that matter. From an aesthetics point of view, varnish gives our tables a glossy look and a smooth feel.

Let’s finish our tables.

Time required: 30 minutes to apply, 72 hours to dry.

Materials

• Table varnish - I opted to go with Varathane Bar and Table Finish as this product seems to be specifically designed for use on a bar. As advertised on the package, a single application is equivalent to 60 coats of varnish. I’m sold.

 Tools

• Foam or rubber applicator brush

Step 1 - Clean the table.

Applying varnish will permanently seal in any dust or debris that is on your table at the time of application. Using a damp cloth, wipe down all of the surfaces on your beer pong table that haven’t been painted. Make sure the table is dry before applying the varnish.

Step 2 - Apply the varnish.

In a well ventilated area, apply the varnish evenly onto the table by following the directions printed on the packaging of your product of choice. It’s important that you apply the varnish evenly on the table, as any imperfections will be difficult to correct after the table has dried.

Step 3 - Allow the table to dry.

Allowing the varnish to dry can take a long time, in the case of the Varathane product I selected, because only one extra thick coat is applied, the table took 72 hours to dry completely. During this drying period, be sure to protect the table as any debris that falls onto the table will stick to the table. I hung an old bed sheet a couple of inches above the table for good measure.

Step 4 - Challenge your friends to a game.

After your table is finished drying it’s finally time to put it to use. Pick up some cups, ping pong balls and a case of PBR; it’s time to play some beer pong.

Congratulations, you’re finally done! There’s no doubt building your own beer pong table is lots of work, but in the end the satisfaction you’ll get knowing that you built it is well worth the effort. Thanks for following along. If you have any questions, feel free to post them in the comments. I’m not a handyman, but I’m sure I could offer some assistance. If you do take on the challenge of building your own beer pong table, be sure to forward along a picture to us.

Happy beer ponging! Be sure to catch up on Part 1 and Part 2 if you missed them!