Today we’d like to introduce you to Dave Patterson.
Dave Patterson, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I hate tables that become loose and wobbly and I like a lot of elbow room when entertaining or dining.
My first try, 15 years ago, was for a picnic table on our back porch made entirely from Douglas fir. Eventually that table, standard picnic table size, was moved to the back yard for hanging out under a tree. I replaced that table with one at about 5 years back that is 12’X4′. This table seats 12 comfortably and leaves plenty of room in the middle for pots of food, big Thanksgiving for example. This table is made from Douglas fir and is still incredibly strong and rigid after all this time. We painted it with sage colored house paint to blend in with the plants around the patio, so although the table is large it wouldn’t be an eyesore. Douglas fir is heavy however, so when I built a couple of tables for my friend’s brewery I used Redwood, light but strong. Some of my friends and neighbors also have these tables now and all are happy with them. For the fancier version Redwood decking is a good choice because it has been dried well, and can be stained so that the natural colors come through.
My design is somewhat like the Lincoln Logs toy where the under carriage is interlocked and bolted together. As the wood dries over time, you tighten the bolts and take up any slack that is created. Eventually the table will dry fully and remain extremely stable. I do not make benches, and let the buyer supply chairs of their choice.
We also have tables around the yard for hanging out or potting, and because they sit on dirt so I used pressure treated wood for the legs and undercarriage.
Has it been a smooth road?
I had to experiment to get the legs and top aligned properly. For me there is an aesthetic sweet spot where the legs are far enough apart to give the table an airy look, but still offer enough support in the middle. Attaching the top to the frame proved easier after a few tries, with only 2 carriage bolt round tops showing over each set of legs. No screws can be seen.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
These tables are strong and can be expected to last a long time at a cost that is much lower than other more inferior products. At this point I have only built tables for friends, family and acquaintances, but I will build custom tables if asked! I enjoy making things that are beautiful and long lasting.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
My wife and I eat most of our meals on the back porch and spend most of our time outdoors, so having a nice dining table makes it more fun. San Diego County is the place for outdoor furniture, because it can be enjoyed virtually year-round.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chickendude.net
- Phone: 760-207-9139
Image Credit:
Dave Patterson
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