We get a lot of requests on our live chat asking how to pick the perfect size hairpin legs for table projects. Here are the three most common: DIY dining tables, coffee tables and side or end tables. Check it out and let us know what you’re making next on Instagram @diyhairpinlegs.
Hairpin Legs for Dining Tables
The standard height for a dining table is 30”. Most dining chairs are made for 30” tall tables. As an example, a lot of the tables use 28” legs with a 2” table top. Others use 29” legs with a 1” table top.
To figure out the height of the leg you need for your table, measure the distance between where the table leg will be mounted and the top of the table. Subtract that number from 30 to achieve the table leg height you need.
For example: If you are mounting legs to a solid piece of wood directly then simply measure the thickness of the wood. Let’s say it’s a 2” thick piece of live edge slab. This means you need 30” table legs.
The most common height for dining tables (and desks) is 28". Shop a set of four 28" legs here. We normally recommend to use the 1/2" diameter rod for rigidity or the 3Rod legs for the most strength and rigidity.
Hairpin Legs for Coffee Tables
Coffee tables are great for holding drinks, magazines, food and FEET!
So think about that, if you want to be able to eat on the edge of the couch with your plate on the coffee table, then the best bet is to have the table about equal to the height of the seat cushions on the couch. This is also the ideal height if the coffee table doubles as an ottoman for kicking your feet up while relaxing at home or the office.
So what’s the ideal height? Whatever looks and functions best in your room with your furniture. Generally speaking coffee tables work well at the same height as your couch seat cushions.
To figure out the height of the leg you need for your table, measure the distance between where the table leg will be mounted and the top of the table. Subtract that number from height of the couch seat cushion to achieve the table leg height you need.
Check out the amazing work from the folks at Yellow Brick Home for some added tips on hairpin leg coffee tables.
The most common height for coffee tables is 16" and you can get a set of four 16" legs from us here.
Hairpin Legs for Side Tables
Side tables are sometimes focused on design, but in reality you should consider their function. That said, if this is about function then you want the table to be reachable when your arm swings over to put your coffee table down. So, a simple way to do this is just to measure the height your side table top needs to be next to your favorite chair or sofa. Measure the distance between where the table leg will be mounted and the top of the table. Subtract the thickness of the table top from the total height to get the height leg you need.
A great tutorial on how to make a hairpin leg side table can be found from our friends at the DIY Playbook.
The most common height for side tables is 20". Shop a set of four 20" legs here.