As loving parents, we are constantly searching for innovative ways to capture the attention and delight of our young children. If we can cost-effectively do that, then that is the ultimate dream! With this purpose in mind, we present to you our DIY sensory table, a realm of wonder, education, and adventure. It’s not just any old sensory table. Ours is affordable, simple to make, easy to clean, and has built-in storage! What more could you want?
We shall provide step-by-step guidance for creating your very own thrifty sensory table, along with some fantastic supplementary features, all within an hour. With a few easily accessible materials, you can craft a sensory wonderland to captivate your child’s imagination and foster their development. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need for the DIY Sensory Table (and Add ons)
I will provide links to Amazon and Home Depot, where you can find most of the materials listed. Home Depot often has lower prices, but I understand if you prefer the convenience of Amazon.
Basic Sensory Bin
- 27 Gallon Storage bin Amazon and Home Depot
- 6qt storage containers x 3 Amazon and Home Depot
- Cardboard or paper that is large enough for you to create a template for the container slots. Cardboard has more bulk for tracing, but paper will work.
- Offset blade scissors. For reference, Edgar used Milwaukee. A jigsaw or handsaw are also options.
- Marker
Add on Option 1: Transparent Canvas
- Clear plastic table cover protector (Amazon)
- Pex Piping 10ft section Amazon and Home Depot
- 90 Degree bend clamps (optional) Amazon and Home Depot
- PEX pipe clamps (Amazon)
Add on Option 2: Ramps
- Pipe cleaners
- Bullnose vinyl siding (Home Depot). I couldn’t find this particular style on Amazon.
Add on Option 3: Funnel Tunnel System
- Kids’ sensory tubes (Amazon)
- Plastic water bottles
- Super Glue
Process for the DIY Sensory Table
To begin, place your 6-quart storage container on the cardboard with the open side facing down. Trace around the container to create a template, then cut it out. Next, fold the template vertically in half and make a line along the fold. Finally, position the template onto the lid of the 27-gallon storage bin, using the lid as a reference point to ensure the template is centered on the container.
Once you have established the middle, use the template to trace two more rectangles (one on each side of the middle tracing). Leave enough space on both sides of the middle sketch to ensure the lid can hold the maximum weight capacity for each bin and ensure proper weight distribution for the lid’s design.
Drill holes in each corner of the outlined rectangles to create more space for cutting the material. Afterward, use offset-blade scissors or a handsaw to cut out the rectangles. While a jigsaw is an option, offset-blade scissors or a handsaw can provide better precision.
After cutting out the rectangles, file down the edges to eliminate any possibility of little hands getting cut by the sharp borders. Accessing the borders will be difficult once the bins are inserted into the slots. However, we decided it was better to be safe than sorry. Edgar used this file; however, anything you have that will smooth out the edges will work. Then place the 6qt storage containers into the slots to ensure they fit.
Adding drain holes to the sensory table is optional. To do so, flip the 27-gallon bin over and drill five holes: one in the middle and one in each corner of the protruding sections.
Of note, Edgar had a little goof up while creating the sensory bin (I believe it was wind related). Anyways, he fixed his little mistake and in the process it also added an extra element of sturdiness.
Optional Transparent Canvas
To start, take the PEX pipe and measure around 7 feet before cutting it. After that, drill holes on both sides of the 27-gallon bin lid. Ensure that you use a drill bit that is less than 0.6 inches. You can decide where to place the holes as per your preference. Edgar chose to put them at the end of the sensory bins to prevent any obstruction while playing, yet they are still easily accessible.
After inserting the PEX pipe into the lid holes, drill two small holes on each side of the PEX pipe into the bin. You will have a total of 4 holes on each side of the container. Then insert a zip tie into each hole for a total of four separate zip ties.
Then if you are using them, attach the 90-degree bend supports to the PEX pipe to form a square shape for your transparent canvas.
Next, place the see-through canvas onto the PEX pipe framework made from the table cover. Make sure to cut out a square slightly bigger than the measurements of the PEX pipe frame. Afterward, smoothen any creases by following the same technique used for the transparent easel. Edgar also discovered that leaving it on a flat surface in the sun also removes wrinkles. However, this method requires more time, but it can be done while making the bin slots in the lid.
Once you’re prepared to attach the see-through canvas, use five PEX pipe clamps to secure it firmly in place: one on top and two on each side.
Optional Ramps
To add ramps to the sensory table, measure the bullnose vinyl to your desired length and cut it with offset or regular scissors. Be sure to round out the ends to eliminate any sharp edges. Then, secure the ramps to the PEX pipe using pipe cleaners. This tether method allows for creating different ramp paths and flipping the ramps to both sides of the transparent canvas. For more ideas on how to use these ramps, check out our Magnetic Stem Toy post.
Optional Funnel Tunnels
To make a funnel tunnel, cut a standard water bottle just below the shoulder. Remove the label and cap before securing the bottle to the sensory tube with your preferred adhesive (Edgar used superglue). Repeat these steps for each funnel tunnel you wish to create.
Edgar ultimately decided to make three funnel tunnels. He then secured all three with a Costco apple cider vinegar holder. Coincidently it fit them perfectly. You can then attach these to the PEX pipe with a pipe cleaner.
For a clear and detailed guide, you can watch Edgar’s DIY video which provides visual step-by-step instructions.
Final Thoughts on This DIY Sensory Table
As can be seen from the video, this DIY sensory table is easy to make and full of possibilities. We hope you are filled with excitement to create your very own thrifty sensory table for the little one in your life. Crafting this sensory wonderland doesn’t just save you money; it also unlocks a world of endless fun, education, and exploration for your kiddo.
Whether you choose to include the transparent canvas, ramps, or the funnel tunnel system, each additional feature brings new dimensions to playtime. Watch as your children’s imaginations soar, their motor skills develop, and their joy of discovery knows no bounds. The best part of this project is not just the finished product but the moments you’ll share with your child as they explore and learn through play. This sensory table becomes a precious platform for bonding, laughter, and cherished memories.
We hope you enjoyed this idea and found these instructions helpful. Please share your thoughts, questions, or experience with the DIY thrifty sensory table in the comment section below. We would love to hear your feedback! Are you interested in getting ideas for what to put in the sensory table? Check out Outdoor Play Ideas for different sensory activity options.
