As I talked about before, I recently made an outdoor table for children. Afterwards, I thought about making an adjustable table instead. While going through my woodworking plans, I came across an interesting idea: folding picnic table plans. It sounded like a good solution for anyone who doesn't have a lot of space, likes to put their table away for the winter, or even wants a portable table for camping and the park. A folding table could also be good as a backup table, especially for people with a lot of extended family.
Making a folding table doesn't seem too difficult. The table top is made in the same way as a traditional picnic table - I could see adapting it easily for a variety of sizes and shapes. The legs are similar as well, except you attach them in a different way. One variation I saw was attaching the legs on one side, then creating multiple hooks on the other side. It was kind of like a tv tray. You also want legs that cross like an x with a hinge in the middle. This way, the legs can lay flat.
Folding Tray Table
One variation I would follow is to make the table adjustable. That way, you can make it higher or lower depending on who you plan on sitting there. The top height I would set for adults, while the bottom could be child sized. Of course, if you don't have kids, you could make the top setting countertop height, and then use the table for a buffet.
Could you make this type of table without plans? I think it's definitely possible, especially if you are an experienced wood worker. However, I'd rather be safe and follow a plan specifically for a folding picnic table. If I were to make this, I would pull out a set to follow.