X-prong table bases

The base decides where knees go. 20 X-prong bases are here, in four metals, every one listed for indoor use and 7 also for patio. Match the top size first, then read the footprint of the feet, since that is the number your chairs have to work around.

Start from the top

A two-top is a 24-inch square at its tightest. A 30-inch square gives plates and elbows room. For four, a 36-inch square works, and so does a 42-inch round. Pick the top, then ask what base it needs.

Look for the footprint and the height on each product page, and if a page leaves either out, ask a specialist before you order. Do it with the top's measurements in hand, not from memory. An aluminum table support says various dimensions are available, so open it and choose. One listing, a chrome X-prong base, names the standard height right in its title.

Say a 30-inch square two-top: a base under the middle, a chair on each side and a clear 36-inch aisle beside it. Draw that picture before you choose.

Height has to match the chairs. A table near 29 to 30 inches works with seats of 17 to 19. For a ledge, leave this page and go to bar-height table bases.

Three checks before a base goes into the basket:

• Height, so the table stands at 29 or 30 inches once the top is on.
• Footprint, so chairs clear the feet.
• Top compatibility, because matching a finish is not the same as matching a fit.

Metals, price and where they sit

Metal finish swatches are free through samples. Aluminum bases number 6, cast iron 5, steel 5 and chrome 2. Prices range from $50 to $222. Indoor use is listed on all 20, patio use on 7.

The 7 with patio use are the ones to consider for a sidewalk table. The rest belong inside. Even a patio base needs rinsing, drainage and a dry spot at season end, and the same goes for the table above it.

Other base shapes

The X shape sends feet out in four directions. If you would rather have a round foot, look at round table bases. For the everyday dining height across all shapes, standard table bases is the larger list.

When the base is chosen, pick the surface from table tops, then set both on a table in a cafe plan to see how the chairs fit around the feet.