A folding table or nearly any table can easily be made into a ping pong table. Your kids will have a great time playing with each other and trying to beat Mom or Dad.
You will need a heavy piece of cardboard that is about as wide as the table and about two feet long to create a self standing “net.” Fold the cardboard in half lengthwise and crease it well. Fold each end up toward the middle, crease well, and then push down half way. You should be able to stand the piece up at this point. Staple the middle pieces together for more stability.
If you want a more realistic looking net, skip the last step for the moment. Measure 1 ½” from the top, bottom, and sides of the middle section and cut out the center. Staple mesh fabric to the inside (nylon tulle works great and is very inexpensive). Fold back into position and staple the middle section together as directed above.
You can find ping pong balls at any toy store, sporting goods store, or super center. It pays to buy a large package, since some may get crushed or lost, and they don’t cost very much. You can also pick up ping pong paddles if you want to or you can make paddles, as described below.
The new design of plastic coffee cans has much more solid lids. These work great for hand paddles. Just grab one and start hitting the ball. If you want to add handles, cut out a notch from the rim of the lid. Cut a piece of dowel rod (a 1” rod is good) that reaches a bit above the notch and extends a few inches below it. Glue the rod in place.
Set the table and net up where there is plenty of room to play and have fun!