Guide for Table Leg Placement

How Far Off Each End Should You Place Table Legs?

When building your own table or bench, one of the most common (and most overlooked) questions is:
How far off each end should I place the table legs?

Get it wrong, and you might end up with wobbly edges, knees knocking the legs, or an awkward-looking setup. Get it right, and your project feels balanced, strong, and professional.

Let’s break it down.

For Dining Tables and Larger Tables:

Recommended Placement: 15"–20" from each end

Whether you’re using a slab top, hardwood panel, or a reclaimed piece of barnwood, the ideal spot for your dining table legs is generally 15 to 20 inches from each end. This spacing:

• Improves legroom for end chairs

• Distributes weight evenly

• Creates a well-proportioned design

For example, on a standard 72" table, placing legs 18" in from each end gives a 36" center span — enough to seat two people on each side comfortably while keeping end chairs usable.

For Benches:

Recommended Placement: 10"–16" from each end

Benches typically have shorter spans, but still benefit from good leg positioning. Placing your bench legs 10 to 16 inches from the ends ensures:

• Stability when people sit at the edges

• Visual balance

• Avoidance of tip hazards

Want to make sure it looks right? Measure your full bench length, subtract 20"–32", and divide the remainder by 2. That’s your center span between the legs.

Other Tips to Keep in Mind:

• Use center support on tables over 72" if using metal table legs to avoid bowing.

• Match your leg style to your design — whether you go for modern hairpins or classic cast aluminum, we’ve got table leg options that fit.

• Consider foot traffic — placing legs too close to edges makes walking around the table harder in tight spaces.

Ready to Build?

At Bear Hollow Supply, we offer a full line of metal table legs, cast aluminum designs, and DIY kits to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re crafting a dining table, workbench, or entryway bench, we’re here to help you build something that lasts.

Need help picking the right leg or spacing for your project?
Contact us here — we're happy to help.