DIY Massage Table

Massage tables are vital for a masseuse to conduct business but you can save money by making one instead of purchasing it. The two most important elements of a massage table that you must consider while building is comfort and support. You can accomplish these tasks by creating a soft bedding surface and incorporating a support beam under the center of the table to prevent collapsing.

Tabletop Measurements

Start with a 4-foot by 8-foot piece of plywood. Use an electric saw to cut a massage tabletop from that piece in any dimensions you want. There is no standard size for the tabletop measurements so consider dimensions that work best for you.

Narrower tables enable you to access the client more easily and rounded corners allow you to circle the client without being caught on pointy edges. Ensure the table is wide enough to accommodate larger clients. Remember that the clients head will rest through a hole in the tabletop so make it long enough to accommodate the entire length of the body with a few extra inches.

Cut a hole for the head that is about 5 inches from the edge and about 5 inches across and 9 inches long. Try to make the shape of a face to make the opening comfortable for the client. An oval-shaped hole will be more comfortable than a hole with straight edges.

Legs

Use 2-foot by 4-foot slats of lumber for the legs for maximum table support. Cut the pieces of lumber with a measurement that allows the surface of the table to reach your desired height. Determine the height of the table by considering the best height to give a client a massage. Take into consideration that you will have a couple inches of padding by the end of the construction. You should not have to reach up or down or bend over to access your client.

Place the legs vertically under each corner of the table and attach them to the plywood with long screws. Use a screw gun to put the screws at least an inch and a half from one to the next to prevent the plywood from splitting. The legs need to be at most, 6 inches from the edge. Place at least three legs on each end; one on either corner and one in the middle, and the same formation under the center of the table. Fill the remainder of space under the tabletops edge along the sides, with more legs that mimic the size of the others. The benefit of adding an abundance of legs in a foundation format is that it enhances the sturdiness and balance of the table.

Pads

Attach one square of foam or a series of squares to the tabletop with a spray adhesive. Use a smooth, nonporous fabric for the cover so massage oils do not sink into the foam padding and it is easy to wipe clean. Cover the entire top with one piece of material and tack it under the edge of the tabletop with upholstery tacks. Cut a hole for the head opening and drape extra material around the head space to cover any exposed foam.