How to Fold a STIGA Ping Pong Table: Step-by-Step Guide

STIGA tables are designed to fold for easy storage, but the first time you try to fold or unfold one, it can be intimidating. These tables weigh 130-200+ pounds, and getting them into the right position without the risk of fingers getting caught requires knowing the proper sequence.

Here’s how to safely fold and unfold any STIGA ping pong table.

Before You Start

Safety first:

• Always wear closed-toe shoes when handling folding tables
• Never let children operate the folding mechanism unsupervised
• Clear the area around the table of obstacles, cords, and pets
• Make sure the floor is dry — wet floors + heavy tables = disaster

How to Fold a STIGA Table for Storage

Step 1: Remove the Net

Take off the net and post set before folding. Leaving it on can damage the net clamps and scratch the playing surface during folding.

Step 2: Unlock the Locking Mechanism

Most STIGA tables have a locking lever or safety clip on each half:

• Self-opening leg models: Pull the safety lever under the table edge on one side
• Manual leg models: Release the leg lock pins on both sides
• The exact mechanism varies by model — check your manual if unsure

Step 3: Fold One Half Up

Standing at one end of the table:

1. Grip the underside of the table edge firmly
2. Lift the half toward you — it should pivot on the center hinge
3. Lift until the half reaches approximately 90 degrees (vertical)
4. The support wheels on the underside should now touch the floor
5. Engage the upper locking mechanism to hold it in place

Step 4: Fold the Other Half

Walk to the other end and repeat the process:

1. Release the locking mechanism on this side
2. Lift the second half to vertical
3. The two halves should now be facing each other in the “butterfly” storage position
4. Many STIGA models have a storage latch that clips the two halves together

Step 5: Secure and Store

• Engage all storage latches/clips
• Roll the table to its storage location using the built-in wheels
• Store upright against a wall in a dry location
• Consider covering it to prevent dust accumulation

How to Unfold a STIGA Table for Play

Step 1: Clear the Space

Make sure you have enough room. A regulation table needs at least a 19’ x 11’ room for comfortable play. See our guide on how much space you need for a ping pong table.

Step 2: Position the Folded Table

Roll the folded table to the center of your playing area. The wheels should be on a flat, level surface.

Step 3: Release Storage Latches

Unclip any latches holding the two halves together.

Step 4: Lower One Half

1. Support the half with one hand on the table edge
2. Release the upper lock mechanism
3. Slowly lower the half down until the legs touch the floor
4. The self-opening leg mechanism should deploy the legs automatically (on supported models)
5. Verify the legs are fully extended and locked

Step 5: Lower the Second Half

Repeat the process on the other side.

Step 6: Final Checks

• Verify all four legs are fully extended and locked
• Check that the table height is level (use the adjustable leg levelers if needed)
• Attach the net and post set
• Test the bounce by dropping a ball from 12 inches — it should bounce back to approximately 10 inches

Playback Mode (Solo Practice)

To set up playback mode, fold only ONE half of the table up to vertical. The upright half creates a return board for solo practice. This is great for serve practice and short-game drills.

Note: Make sure the upright half is securely locked in the vertical position before hitting balls against it.

Troubleshooting

Table Won’t Fold

• Legs not releasing: Check for a secondary lock under the playing surface. Some STIGA models have a hidden safety catch.
• Mechanism frozen: Apply WD-40 to the hinge points and work it back and forth
• Legs catching on floor: Lift the table slightly higher before folding to clear the legs

Legs Won’t Open When Unfolding

• Self-opening models: The legs should deploy automatically as you lower the half past 45 degrees. If they don’t, the spring mechanism may need lubrication.
• Manual models: Pull the leg release before lowering the half.

Table Wobbles After Unfolding

• Use the adjustable levelers on the bottom of each leg to compensate for uneven floors
• Ensure all four legs are fully extended and locked
• Check that the center hinge is properly engaged

For more STIGA table information, check our STIGA Advantage review and STIGA XTR Outdoor review. For general table care, see our how to clean a ping pong table guide.