How To Build A Folding Poker Table Top

1. How To Build A Folding Poker Table Top Desk
2. How To Build A Folding Poker Table Tops
3. Portable Poker Tables Folding
4. How To Build A Folding Poker Table Top Coffee Table

Step 2: Construction of the Poker Table Itself Cut the plywood to the proper size of your envisioned table (from the first piece of plywood). Cut the top and bottom rail sections (from the second piece of plywood). After cutting the rail sections, center it, and attach the smaller remaining oval. Drill eight equally-spaced 3/8” holes through rail and table-top, 2” from inside edge. Use forstner bit to remove enough material for bolt head to sit flush with top of rail. Remove rail and hammer machine bolts through holes in rail. Expand holes in table to 1/2” by drilling new hole with 1/2” bit. Applying Foam to Table-Top. LUCKYERMORE Folding Poker Table Top 500 Poker Chip Set 8 Player Layout Poker Mats with Carry Bag 4.1 out of 5 stars 9. GSE Games & Sports Expert 2-Sided 36'x72' Casino Tabletop Felt Layout Mat (Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Texas Hold'em Available) 4.6 out of 5 stars 115.

As I write this, WSOP 2018 is in full swing, so I thought this would be a good time to update my recommendations on folding poker table tops for home games.

These new recommendations aren't based simply on my personal opinion, instead they're based on analysis of more than 1,300 opinions from people who have bought or used them - you can read more about that in the Methodology section at the end of this guide.

As an experienced casino and live tournament player myself, I've also provided some advice for those of you who don't have much experience with poker tables.

Contents

• The Best Folding Poker Table Tops

Poker Table Top Buying Advice

Having a proper felt table is much better than playing your home games on a regular kitchen table top. Not only do they add a touch of class to the game but cards also slide more predictably across the surface resulting in fewer misdeals.

• Size: For octagonal tops the main consideration is how much space it takes up when bagged and stored. Many people use their poker tops on tables which are larger with many people using 48' tops on 60' (5 feet) round tables. They can also be used on square tables. I personally prefer a top that's slightly larger than the table it's sitting on, however you have to be careful not to knock the top and topple everyone's chips when sitting down. Octagonal tops are usually measured from point to point, not side to side. For oval tables the main consideration, other than folded size, is that length is similar to the table it's going on so people at the ends don't have to reach too far, but it doesn't have to be an exact fit.

• Playing Surface: All the tops recommended below have a felt playing surface, however some of them are decorated and some aren't. One issue that often arises with cheaper tops that are decorated is that the markings are printed on with inks or dyes that are sometimes sticky. This isn't always an issue for home players, but anyone experienced at dealing on a professional table will get frustrated with the way cards can stick to the paint when sliding across the surface.

• Portability: Although most folding tops come with carry bags, the quality of the bags tends to vary a lot. If you're planning on carrying the top around with you, pay special attention to the review analyses below.

• Folds: The more folds a top has, the smaller it generally is when stowed away, however the folds can crease over time leading to cards getting caught sometimes leading to misdeals. To minimize the risk of this happening, get one with the least number of folds for its type if folded size isn't a concern for you.

• Extras: Some tops come with extras such as cards and chips. Generally these tend to be lower quality cards than I prefer - see my card recommendation below for a better option. Also bundled chips tend to be lower quality plastic ones that are okay for some, but not for players used to the weight and feel of standard clay based chips, after all a good set of chips can cost more than many table tops.

Octagon Poker Table Top Meta Reviews

MD Sports ARC046_027M

PolyRated / Sources: 832 / 15+
Median Price / Sources: $51 / 3
Brand: MD Sports

Folded Size: 23.325' W x 23.325' L x 2.5' H
Included Extras: Cards & Chips
Total Weight: 23.1 lb

At only 46' across, this is one of the smallest options currently available. It folds 2 ways making it much smaller than most other options when folded.

It comes with a carry bag and a basic deck of cards. It only includes a 100 piece chip set which is not really enough for 8 players, so if you don't have chips already you'll need to buy some more.

It's made from particle board (MDF) with plastic cup and chip holders.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

HomCom B8-0001

PolyRated / Sources: 880 / 125+
Median Price / Sources: $55 / 4
Brand: HomCom

How To Build A Folding Poker Table Top Desk

Folded Size: 23.75' W x 47.25' L x 1.25' H
Included Extras: None
Total Weight: 22 lb

The HomCom B8-0001 has the highest ratings out of all the octagonal table tops on the market which seems to be due to its value for money in the 48' segment.

It has the most common size for an octagonal poker table top at 48' across. As you can see from the picture on the right, it uses a single fold - this does make it larger when folded than some options, but it also means there is one less join leading to fewer issues over time as it's packed away and taken out time and again for use.

The manufacturer says it's made from solid wood, however 1 reviewer said it's more likely plywood. In addition to the green felt on top, the back is covered with black felt so there's no risk of it scratching your table. The removable chip/cup holders are molded plastic. The carry bag is made from nylon.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

Trademark Poker 10-11652

PolyRated / Sources: 842 / 150+
Median Price / Sources: $95 / 7
Brand: Trademark Poker

Folded Size: 52' W x 26' L x 3.5' H
Included Extras: None
Total Weight: 30 lb

I mainly play on oval tables, however if I needed to get an octagonal table then after examining so many reviews, this is the one I would get.

The raised padding around the edge means you don't have to worry about cards or chips falling off the edge when sliding across the table, and from personal experience they're much more comfortable when resting your arms on them.

At the time of publication, I'm still waiting on Trademark Poker to confirm what type of wood it's made from, but I can tell you that the padded sides and the bottom surface are made from vinyl. The carry bag is made from nylon.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

Oval Poker Table Top Meta Reviews

IDS Home 4-Fold 63'

PolyRated / Sources: 920 / 10+
Median Price / Sources: $53 / 3
Brand: IDS Home

Open Size: 63' L x 35' W
Folded Size: 32.3' L x 16.5' W x 3.2' H
Included Extras: None
Total Weight: 21 lb

This top has good ratings but it's usually only bought by people with a small table to put it on - most people opt for one of the larger sizes below.

The manufacture hasn't yet provided me with detailed specifications, but based on user reports it's made with solid feeling wood.

It also comes with a carry bag as you see in the picture.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

Giantex TY557993

PolyRated / Sources: 900 / 30+
Median Price / Sources: $48 / 3
Brand: Giantex

Open Size: 71' L x 35' W
Folded Size: 18' L x 36' W x 1' H
Included Extras: None
Total Weight: 29 lb although some owners report that it's actually a few pounds heavier than that.

This top is made from MDF wood with a felt top and PVC carry bag using its 4 segmented folding design.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

JP Commerce TX3

PolyRated / Sources: 826 / 15+
Median Price / Sources: $120 / 5
Brand: JP Commerce

Open Size: 82' L x 40' W
Folded Size: 40' L x 37' W
Included Extras: None
Total Weight: 51 lb

NB: This top does not come with a carry bag.

Despite this top having lower ratings than the 2 smaller options above (possibly due to its higher price tag), this is the option I would choose for myself after having personally read all the reviews for all the options recommended in this guide.

It's built from solid wood and is nice and heavy (51 lb) to ensure it sits firmly on your table. I personally prefer a more weighty table for this reason, after all you spend more time playing on it than you do carrying it around. It also has padded sides which is a big plus for me.

Due to its 3-fold design, it takes up more space when folded than other options, however this also leads to a smoother playing surface with fewer creases.

Review Analysis

Positive

Negative

Card Recommendation

If you're still using basic playing cards then you should get a set of Copag cards. These are the only ones I ever recommend - in my opinion they are superior to all other sets of cards because they don't easily mark or get creased. Not only do they last for years, it's very difficult for a cheat to bend or crease the corners to mark them during play. The first set I bought lasted for over 10 years!

Folding Poker Table Top Selection Methodology

*All of the products recommended above were selected based on their PolyRated scores out of 1000.

These scores were calculated by analyzing reports and reviews by owners and users, assigning a score to each source and then processing those scores algorithmically to produce an overall score that reflects market sentiment about the product.

The analysis included over 1,300 review sources of 18 models from 9 brands: Brybelly, Da Vinci, Giantex, GLD Products, HomCom, IDS Home, JP Commerce, MD Sports and Trademark Poker.

The models with the highest rating in each category for each of the 3 sizes were then selected to be recommended above.

When it comes to poker accessories, a poker table to play on at home is a must for any poker enthusiast. In this article, I will take you through all of your poker table options, from portable inexpensive tabletop mats and folding tables to professional high-end choices. Whether you want an 8 or 10 person table, octagon, round, or oval, no matter your budget, I will help you find the perfect solution to your home game poker needs.

When choosing a poker table for your home poker or game room, you have 4 basic options at varying price points.

1. Roll Up Poker Mats
   Perfect for a sporadic casual game among close friends, especially where poker is a secondary part of the fun. Here is my favorite portable poker mat, found on Amazon.
2. Foldable Table Toppers
   Folding poker tables are a great option if you are serious about poker but on a budget. These still look amazing and sit on top of any table, dining room, or otherwise. If you’ve ever played pub poker, this is what they almost always universally use. My favorite topper is the Gigantex Folding Table Top.
3. Collapsible Poker Tables
   If you have either a dedicated space for poker or just room in your living room, collapsible poker tables with legs are the most popular option for home game hosts. These tables tuck conveniently away in the garage and can be brought out and set up very quickly. My favorite one is the Barrington Oval Poker Table.
4. Permanent Professional Poker Tables
   For serious players who want to furnish a full-size poker room in their house, high-end permanent poker tables are the best choice. Check out this solid wood poker table (Click to see on Amazon), it comes with a cool dealer station.

Option #1: Roll Up Poker Table Mats

Poker mats are typically made of either cloth or rubber and are basically just a rolled up felt that is used as a table top cover. They usually come with a compact carrying case, ready to be stored or conveniently taken any location you choose. To use, you simply unroll them onto your dining table and voila, poker time.

#1: GSE Games 70″ x 35″ Portable Table Top

This mat is my favorite mainly due to the fact that it comes in several colors and is big enough to hold up to 7 or 8 players comfortably. I really like the classy look and prefer just having one ring around the outside without the fancy bells and whistles designs that many models come from. It also comes with a nice carrying case.

#2: Gameland Oval Portable Poker Table Mat

If you are looking for a mat that has a bit fancier look then this one is for you. It has a nice “felt” design and slots to place Texas Hold’em community cards. This mat also comes with a handy carrying case.

#3: Da Vinci Rectangle 2-Sided Poker & Blackjack Mat

If you also like to play Blackjack then you will love this mat. Just flip it over and you have your own personal Blackjack table. However, while this is one of the least expensive mats you can find it is also one has durability issues.

Option #2: Folding Poker Table Toppers

Folding poker table tops usually look like traditional card tables in that they typically have raised arm rests and cup holders. However, unlike regular poker tables, there are no legs on this next step up from poker mats. I recommend these to anyone who is on a budget but still wants to offer their playing buddies the look of a real poker casino table. Poker table toppers typically come in either octagon or oval shaped.

#1: Gigantex Oval Folding Poker Table Top

This attractive design is as about as good as it gets for folding poker tables. It is big enough to seat 8 people, has a solid durable construction, and folds up for easy portability.

#2: Homcom Octagon Foldable Poker Table Top

If you play in a small poker game or want a topper for a round table, this model fits the bill perfectly. It is heavy duty and very durable. I really like the plastic trays with cup holders that help mitigate spills. If you have a game with 6 players or less, this is a great option.

#3: Fat Cat Tri-Fold Poker Table Top

If you prefer a poker table topper that has a defined padded rail you will like the Fat Cat tri-fold table. It is also much larger than most other table toppers and will comfortably seat 8 or 9 players.

Option #3: Folding Poker Tables (With Legs)

This is the most common table that most folks purchase. The construction is generally similar to that of folding poker table toppers, they just have legs added on. However, there is a wide range in construction and sturdiness across a wide spectrum of price points. My goal is to help you sort through the madness and provide recommendations across a broad array of choices.

#1: Barrington Oval Folding Poker Table

This table has it all: Durable construction, compact storage, padded rails, and a really attractive design. It’s like having a professional permanent poker table without the high expense.

#2: Texas Holdem Folding Speed Cloth Poker Table

How To Build A Folding Poker Table Tops

I just can’t get over how nice this poker table looks. If you have a small home game, this is the perfect table to impress your buddies. A huge bonus is the stainless cup holders and the speed cloth (spill-proof).

The materials are casino quality and you can expect this item to last for a long time. It’s basically a permanent quality table that happens to have folding legs.

#3: Polar Aurora Oval Folding Poker Table

If you are on a budget but don’t like poker mats, then the Polar Aurora is a great option. It has a plain look to it but is highly functional with its solid metal construction.

It seats 8 players (6 very comfortably), is made with solid wood, and has steel legs. There are 8 cup holders and padded armrests as well. I really like this foldable table and it would likely fill the needs of most everyone.

Option #4: High-Quality Permanent Poker Tables

If you have a dedicated game room and want your poker table ready to go anytime, you have a wide array of options. I realize that a large purchase like this will not typically be made on a whim. You will likely spend some time doing some research before you decide on which type and mode you ultimately choose. To that end, I will offer a few suggestions at several price points to help you on your way to a decision.

#1: Solid Wood Poker Table With Dealer Station

If you want your home game to have a professional setup, this is the best table for the money. It has a casino-style design with a dealer station and toke box (for tips). It also comes with speed cloth and stainless cup holders. Make sure you have a lot of room because this thing is huge!

#2: Elite Poker Table With Dining Top

If you are looking for a higher-end model then this elite poker table offers a solid oak construction with a black finish. It doubles as a dining room tables as well.

This is a 10 person “racetrack” table. It has a solid oak claw pedestal, black finish, and all the other bells and whistles you would expect at this price point. I can’t get over how awesome the black finish looks.

#3: Ultimate Poker Table (Folding)

With this table, you get the best of both worlds. It has a high-quality construction and looks like a permanent table but has legs that fold under for storage. It even has a dealer station for your high stakes games.

Portable Poker Tables Folding

#4: Luxury Poker Table (With Chairs)

With this Permanent Luxury Poker Table with Chairs. With thistable, you get the best of both worlds. It has a high-quality construction and looks like a permanent table but has legs that fold under for storage.

It has both traditional and contemporary design elements and would fit in almost any decor. It actually would make a great conference room table as you can choose either dining or lounge chairs.

Other Considerations

Before purchasing the poker table of your choice, make sure that it fits your needs as closely as possible. Here are a 5 things to consider.

1. Does the table fit well in the space allocated?
   There’s no sense in buying a giant luxury poker table if you can’t even get it through the front door of your 600 square foot condo. You are much better off just using your current dining room table and a poker table mat. However, if you live in a 9000 square foot mansion with a million dollars of antique furniture, rolling out a rubber casino in front of your friends just won’t do.
2. Will the table match the expectations of your poker friends?
   This ties into my first point. If “the guys” or “gals” are expecting a regular poker night that lasts for years, you will want to invest in a solution that matches that expectation. Even so, you still don’t have to break the bank when creating your poker atmosphere for your buddies. Any perceived “cheapness” you’ve put into the equipment will soon be forgotten if you break out the favorite beer or snack foods of your poker compatriots.
3. Is the table big enough to accommodate your regular players?
   Check the number of seats a poker table will accommodate, before purchasing. For most small games, this isn’t typically an issue, since it’s usually just 4-6 friends. Almost every table I have recommended will fit the bill for this scenario. Just remember that for bigger events, you will need to comfortably fit everyone. If you jam Frances up against a wall, stuck between a counter and a trash can, don’t expect to see her next week. Remember, no one puts baby in a corner. (sorry bad movie reference, couldn’t resist)
4. Does your table of choice fit into your budget?
   If you have set aside $200 to buy all of your poker night needs and then splurge on a $180 poker table as your first purchase, $20 doesn’t leave a whole lot of room to buy everything else you need. While the table is important, so is poker chips and playing cards.
5. Do you plan to play when on vacation?
   If you have a family poker night, then you will want to strongly consider a foldable poker table that travels well. Or, just buy two tables; a permanent one your main home table and folding or roll-up one for vacations.

About Poker Table Felt

While the design of the table is the most important factor in choosing the right poker table, the type of felt that covers the surface is also something to take into account. Basically, there are two predominant options available for poker table felt, standard felt and speed cloth.

• Standard Felt (Made of Micro Suede or Velveteen)
  This is the standard option on the vast majority of poker tables, especially those on the lower end of the price spectrum. The surface has a roughness to it and sometimes it is difficult to get the cards to slide where you want them to while dealing. This is the cheapest surface and should be fine for the vast majority of players. However, some folks like a slight upgrade to a more “professional” surface.
• Speed Cloth (Typically made of polyester)
  Discerning players and many professional poker players prefer their playing surface to be a bit faster than standard felt can satisfy. Enter speed cloth. Made of a very smooth type of polyester, you will have no problem getting the cards to slide from one end of the table to another while dealing. In fact, players not used to the surface may complain that the cards are sliding off the table too much. Most poker tables do not come standard with speed cloth, it is typically an upgrade that some companies offer if you want to pay for the option. A few of the tables in this guide do offer speed cloth as an option, be sure to check before you purchase.

Personally, I prefer speed cloth, but only for higher end tables. I would much rather adjust to a fast surface than a slow one. Even so, most folding or portable poker tables are compact enough that it doesn’t really matter one way or the other.

Honestly, the type of “felt” on your poker table is a really tiny concern for the vast majority of players out there. Unless you are a professional or play for thousands of dollars every poker night, no one is likely ever to care about what surface your table as (assuming it isn’t soiled, torn and nasty).

Additional Poker Accessories & Essentials

Now that you have tackled the biggest ticket item for your home game, you may need to buy a few more essentials to get ready for your home game. Speaking of which, I wrote an informative article on the 10 keys to hosting the perfect poker night, be sure to check it out. I cover everything you need to do to be a great poker host.

Also, get some really nice playing cards and good quality poker chips, they can make or break a poker night. My personal favorite is Copag, what’s yours? Here are a few more considerations for you to think about:

• Decorating your poker room
• Finding players
• Providing appropriate food & for your guests
• Choosing a game format
• Security (for you high rollers out there)

How To Build A Folding Poker Table Top Coffee Table

Summary

If you are looking for a short-term solution but want to upgrade at some point, I suggest going with the cheapest poker mat possible and then spending some time deciding what permanent setup you want. Or, if you just want a safe bet that will last you many years, just go with what I feel is the safest bet, the folding 8-person Polar Aurora. It is a fine table that is a perfect balance between portability and permanent options. I love the way it looks and how it folds in half for easy storage.

From cheap, portable, rolled up cloth mats, to high-end luxury professional models, I hope to have given you a good review of the best poker table options there are out there and an idea of how much each type costs. If you found this article informative, be sure to browse the resources section of our site, and let us know if there is a subject you would like addressed in the comments below. Also, feel free to browse our site to learn more about poker strategy. Thanks for stopping by!