Some communities are commissioning local artists to paint wood picnic tables with colorful designs to draw attention to their projects. See links in story

How can simple wood picnic tables bring a community together?

First, purchase some commercial-grade wooden picnic tables (these are durable, heavy-duty picnic tables that can withstand constant public use in the outdoors).

Then add artists.

Now you have the basic ingredients for an interesting way to attract attention to a project.

And bring people together. After all, that's what picnic tables are designed to do.

This is what took place near Penn State University in Centre County, Pennsylvania.

After reading the book, "The Art of Neighboring" a woman got the idea to purchase some wood picnic tables.

Then she painted them with a tie-dye design.

After that, she distributed the wood picnic tables throughout the neighborhood as a way for people living there to mingle, get to know one another and share a meal.

Wood picnic tables used as a canvas for local artists

That's the magic of picnic tables. They have the ability to bring people together.

By adding these colorful designs, the tables took on a whole new dimension.

That attracted attention. And helped the organizer achieve her goal of building relationships between members of her community.

The City of West Palm Beach conducted a similar project when they commissioned a bunch of local artists to paint wood picnic tables with scenes from Aesop's Tables fairy tales.

The tables were placed in a giant open space as part of the department's "Summer in Paradise" program. The concept behind adding the picnic tables was to again encourage people to mingle, play games, dine and interact with others.

After the event, these beautiful picnic tables served a second purpose. They were auctioned off and successfully raised funds for area non-profits.

Painting wood picnic tables is a great idea.

Here's why.

For one, a town or parks department provides a canvas and exposure for local artists.

Every community has them. A group of talented people most people don't know about. Here's a chance for them to get recognized.

Secondly, this is the type of positive project that generates publicity.

It's visual. It's community-oriented. And it's positive news.

Newspapers and television stations love to cover events such as this.

That also helps to bring awareness to your particular project or event.

Third, every town probably needs more picnic tables. How many times have you gone to a park on a weekend only to find every picnic table and park charcoal grill already taken?

What about smaller parks or open spaces? Adding a picnic table is like adding a magnet to attract people and families.

Advantages of commercial-grade picnic tables

If you do decide to go this route, be sure to purchase commercial-grade wood picnic tables. These tables can withstand heavy use by the public. Plus, they are built to endure exposure to the elements year-round.

Find tables with pressure-treated wood that lasts longer against harsh weather, damaging UV rays, termites and mold.

Another option is to purchase wood picnic tables with untreated planks and then stain them.

While there are wood frames, metal picnic table frames are a smart alternative.

These steel frames are either galvanized or painted with a powder-coat that helps prevent rust and corrosion.

Don't forget handicapped visitors. Wood picnic tables are also available in ADA models that can accommodate people in wheelchairs.

If you take a closer look, there's something captivating about a picnic table. It's a structure you can sit on outdoors while comfortably enjoying a big blue sky, luscious greenery and perhaps a pond or lake.

Then there's the dining aspect. People pay big bucks to eat a meal at a restaurant with a view. At a picnic table in a park, that view is free.

Finally, there's the social aspect. A picnic table is a great opportunity to give your family or friends a different place to gather, enjoy a meal together, socialize. With a dash of new scenery.

If you want to do something different for your community, follow the example of these people.

Purchase some wood picnic tables, paint and brushes, contact a few talented artists and then let the magic begin.