Make Your Wood Table Legs Longer: A Friendly DIY Guide

Ever found yourself looking at a beloved wooden table and wishing it was just a little bit taller? Maybe you’ve upgraded your chairs, or perhaps you’re dreaming of a comfortable standing desk. Whatever the reason, the good news is that making your wood table legs longer is a perfectly achievable DIY project!

While it might sound a bit daunting at first, with the right approach and a little patience, you can extend your table’s life and functionality without needing to buy a whole new piece of furniture. This guide will walk you through the most popular and effective methods to add height to your wooden table legs, transforming it into the perfect fit for your space.

Top Ways to Make Your Wood Table Legs Longer

There are several methods you can use, each with its own advantages and skill requirements. Let’s dive into the most common techniques.

1. Adding Wood Extensions (The Custom Approach)

This method involves attaching new pieces of wood to the bottom of your existing table legs. It’s ideal for a seamless look, especially if you can match the wood type and finish. It requires a bit more woodworking skill but offers the most integrated and sturdy result.

What You’ll Need:

• New Wood Stock: Choose wood that matches your table legs in type (e.g., oak, pine) and dimensions.
• Wood Glue: A strong, durable wood adhesive.
• Clamps: Essential for holding pieces together while the glue dries.
• Screws or Dowels: For extra reinforcement (optional but recommended).
• Saw: Hand saw, miter saw, or circular saw for precise cuts.
• Sander & Sandpaper: For smoothing and preparing the wood.
• Measuring Tape & Pencil: For accurate marking.
• Drill: If using screws or dowels.
• Wood Filler & Matching Finish: Stain, paint, or varnish to blend the new wood.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Measure & Plan: Determine exactly how much height you need to add. Cut your new wood pieces to this exact length, ensuring they match the width and depth of your existing table legs.
2. Prepare the Surfaces: Lightly sand the ends of your existing table legs and the new wood pieces to ensure a good glue bond. Clean off any dust.
3. Apply Glue: Apply a generous but even layer of wood glue to both mating surfaces.
4. Attach the Extension: Carefully align and press the new wood piece onto the bottom of the existing table leg.
5. Clamp Securely: Use clamps to hold the pieces firmly together. Make sure they are perfectly aligned. Wipe away any excess glue that squeezes out.
6. Reinforce (Optional but Recommended): Once the glue has set for a few hours (but isn’t fully cured), you can add screws or dowels for extra strength. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then drive screws or insert dowels. If using dowels, apply glue into the holes before inserting.
7. Cure Time: Allow the glue to fully cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24 hours).
8. Sand & Finish: Once dry, sand the extended legs smooth, paying attention to the joint to make it as seamless as possible. Then, apply a matching stain, paint, or varnish to blend the new wood with the old.

Pros:

• Seamless Look: When done correctly, the extension can be almost invisible.
• Customizable: You control the exact height and can match the wood perfectly.
• Very Sturdy: Creates a strong, integrated extension.

Cons:

• Skill Required: Demands some basic woodworking skills and tools.
• Time-Consuming: Involves multiple steps, including drying and finishing.
• Potential for Mismatches: Getting an exact wood and finish match can be tricky.

2. Using Commercial Table Leg Extenders (The Quick Fix)

If you’re looking for a simpler, faster solution that doesn’t require extensive DIY skills, commercial table leg extenders are a fantastic option. These are pre-made devices, often made of metal or strong plastic, designed to slip over or into your existing table legs.

How They Work:

Most extenders work by either sliding over the bottom of your existing leg or inserting into a drilled hole in the bottom of the leg. They often feature adjustable height mechanisms, allowing for fine-tuning.

Pros:

• Quick & Easy: Minimal installation, often just requiring a screwdriver or wrench.
• Adjustable: Many models allow you to precisely adjust the height.
• Removable: Can often be removed if you decide to revert to the original height.
• No Special Skills: Generally doesn’t require advanced woodworking knowledge.

Cons:

• Aesthetic Compromise: May not perfectly match the look of your table legs.
• Less Sturdy for Heavy Use: Some models might not be as robust as a permanent wood extension for very heavy tables.
• Limited Sizes: You’re restricted to available extender sizes, which might not fit all leg dimensions.

3. Building a New Base or Frame (The Major Overhaul)

This method is for when you need a significant height change, or if your existing table legs aren’t suitable for extensions. It involves replacing the entire lower structure of your table. This is the most complex option and is essentially building a new table base for your existing tabletop.

Pros:

• Ultimate Customization: You can design a base that perfectly fits your needs and aesthetic.
• Superior Stability: A well-built new base offers excellent structural integrity.
• Major Height Changes: Ideal for transforming a coffee table into a dining table, or a dining table into a bar height.

Cons:

• Most Complex: Requires advanced woodworking skills, tools, and a detailed plan.
• Time & Cost Intensive: Will take the most time and potentially cost the most in materials.
• Not for Beginners: Best left to experienced DIYers or professionals.

Important Considerations When Lengthening Table Legs

Before you begin, keep these crucial points in mind to ensure a successful and safe project:

• Stability is Key: Any added height can affect the table’s center of gravity. Always test for wobble. If your table feels unstable, consider adding cross-braces or a wider base.
• Match Your Materials: For wood extensions, try to use the same type of wood. For commercial extenders, consider how their material (metal, plastic) will look with your existing wood.
• Tools & Skills: Be realistic about your DIY abilities and the tools you have. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if a project feels beyond your comfort level.
• Weight Distribution: Ensure the extended legs can still support the table’s weight, especially if it’s a heavy dining table or will hold heavy items.
• Aesthetics: Think about the overall look. Will the extensions blend in or stand out? Sometimes a contrasting extension can be a design feature!
• Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear (eyewear, gloves) when cutting, drilling, or sanding. Work in a well-ventilated area.

Cost Snapshot

The cost of lengthening your table legs can vary greatly:

• Wood Extensions: Mostly the cost of new wood and finishing supplies, potentially a few dollars to $50, depending on wood type and amount.
• Commercial Extenders: Typically range from $20 to $100+ for a set, depending on material, adjustability, and brand.
• New Base/Frame: Can easily run into hundreds of dollars for materials alone, not including specialized tools or professional labor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lengthening Table Legs

Can you put extenders on any table leg?

Generally, yes, but with a few caveats. Commercial extenders are designed for specific leg shapes (round, square) and sizes. Always measure your table legs accurately before purchasing. For wood extensions, nearly any solid wood leg can be extended, though very thin or ornate legs might pose more of a challenge for a seamless finish.

What are table leg extenders exactly?

Table leg extenders are pre-manufactured devices designed to increase the height of furniture legs. They typically come as caps that fit over the existing leg, or inserts that fit into the bottom of the leg. Many are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the table’s height.

How do I extend table legs safely?

Safety is paramount. Always secure your table so it doesn’t tip while you’re working on the legs. Use appropriate personal protective equipment like safety glasses. When attaching extensions, ensure all joins are strong and reinforced (with screws or dowels if using wood). After extension, test the table’s stability thoroughly before using it, and consider adding cross-bracing if there’s any wobble.

Is it hard to make table legs longer?

The difficulty level depends on the method you choose. Using commercial leg extenders is generally quite easy and requires minimal tools or skill. Adding wood extensions is a moderate DIY project, requiring basic woodworking skills and tools. Building an entirely new base is the most challenging and is best suited for experienced woodworkers.

Ready to Lengthen Your Table?

Making your wood table legs longer is a rewarding project that can breathe new life into an old favorite or adapt an existing piece to new needs. Whether you opt for a simple commercial extender or a custom wood extension, remember to prioritize stability and take your time. You’ll soon enjoy a table that’s perfectly suited to your space and lifestyle!