Skip to main content

Build your own expanding table with these downloadable DIY instructions

Ever seen that crazy Fletcher Capstan table that expands to nearly double its size with a simple spin? If not, you should definitely check it out. It’s one of the most impressive pieces of furniture ever to be built, and watching its moving parts swing into place is absolutely mesmerizing.

It’s hard not to drool when you see the table in action, but unfortunately in order to get one in your dining room, you’ll have to shell out upwards of $100K to have one made. The only other option is to build one yourself, and replicating David Fletcher’s insanely complex construction is something that’s likely above the skill level of the average DIYer.

Screen Shot 2014-12-12 at 12.44.22 PMUntil now, that is.

Contractor and garage tinkerer Scott Rumschlag has spent the last couple years developing a self-built version of the table, and has recently begun selling the plans online for just 29 bucks. Rumschlag’s table isn’t exactly the same as Fletcher’s original design, but it achieves the same effect, and it’s simple enough mechanically that you could easily put it together over the course of a couple weekends.

Related: Five pieces of mind-blowing transformable furniture

The table plans (only available in PDF at this point) include a treasure trove of helpful information, including drawings, dimensions, multiple views, 62 images, and over 5,200 words laying out Rumschalg’s tips and tricks for constructing your own table.

Of course, buying the plans is just the first step. In order to actually build the table, you’ll need a table saw, router, jigsaw, thickness planer, and an angle grinder. Other tools might help, but aren’t required. The cost of materials varies depending on quality, but Rumschalg estimates that the total cost should be between $400 and $800 for most people.

Drew Prindle
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Drew Prindle is an award-winning writer, editor, and storyteller who currently serves as Senior Features Editor for Digital…
Nest Doorbell vs. Ring Battery Doorbell Plus: which is the better video doorbell?
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus installed outside a front door.

Ring and Nest are responsible for some of the best video doorbells available. With easy-to-use smartphone apps, simple installation processes, and the ability to customize your motion alerts, the Ring Battery Doorbell Plus and Nest Doorbell have quickly established themselves as two of the best video doorbells money can buy.

But what exactly is the difference between these two popular gadgets? And which is better for your smart home?

Read more
The best Apple HomeKit devices for 2023
A person unlocking the Aqara U100 smart lock with their phone.

While not as widespread as Google Home or Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit remains one of the most popular smart home ecosystems of 2023. The software plays well with iOS devices, and several other gadgets such as smart lights, smart locks, thermostats, and cameras can be controlled using the fancy technology. If you’re looking to build your smart home around Apple’s ecosystem, here are the best HomeKit devices available today.
Locks

HomeKit doesn’t have the largest selection of smart locks, but that doesn’t really matter when you have something as well-rounded as the Aqara Smart Lock U100. Not only does it offer full HomeKit support, but you’ll even gain access to Apple home keys -- allowing you to unlock your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch. There’s also the standard keypad for entering a passcode, along with a fingerprint sensor that can store several dozen fingerprints (so your whole family can enter the home without worrying about forgetting their password or smartphone).

Read more
Secure your home with Ring Floodlight Cam Plus and save $80
Ring Floodlight Camera placed on a wall outside.

Best Buy has one of the best security camera deals at the moment with $80 off the Ring Floodlight Cam Plus Outdoor Wired Surveillance Camera. Usually priced at $200, it's down to $120 for a limited time only so if you're fast enough, you'll save a lot of cash. If you're looking to secure your home, keep reading while we tell you all about the advantages this security camera offers.

Why you should buy the Ring Floodlight Cam Plus
Considered to be one of the best floodlight cameras for someone seeking a hard-wired solution, the Ring Floodlight Cam Plus Outdoor Wired Surveillance Camera is a highly effective home security measure.

Read more