How to build a picnic bench

This step by step diy project is about how to build a picnic bench plans. This backyard project features detailed instructions regarding the construction of a beautiful picnic bench with X-shaped legs. Don’t forget to check out the rest of the project, in order to see how to build a picnic table with X-shaped legs.

You should always plan everything from the very beginning, in order to prevent costly mistakes and to save time. In most of the cases, you need a friend to give you a hand when assembling the outdoor picnic bench. Invest in high quality lumber and plywood, as the components will be exposed to bad weather. Protect the components with appropriate paint or stain.

There are a few tips that you should take into account, if you want to get a professional result. Therefore, take accurate measurements and use professional tools when making the cuts or when drilling pilot holes. Align the components at both ends and add waterproof glue to the joints, if you want to create a rigid structure.

Made from this plan

Building a x shaped bench

Materials

A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 20″ long, 2 pieces – 8 3/4″ long, 2 pieces – 9 4/4″ long LEGS
B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 11″ long SUPPORTS
C – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 11″ long, 2 pieces – 15 1/2″ long BRACES
D – 3 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 72″ long SEAT

1 piece of 2×4 lumber – 10 ft
3 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 8 ft
50 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws
glue, stain / paint

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Miter saw, jigsaw
Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
Drill machinery and drill bits

Tips

Use a good miter saw to make the angle cuts
Drill pilot holes before inserting the screws

Time

One Weekend

Part 1: How to build a picnic table with separate benches
Part 2: How to build a picnic bench

Building a picnic bench with X-shaped legs

Building the bench legs

The first step of the project is to build the legs for the picnic bench. Cut both ends of the 2×4 lumber at 66 degrees. Smooth the cut edges with sandpaper.

Building the x bench legs

Continue the project by attaching the rest of the legs. Cut the components at the right dimensions and angles. Drill pocket holes and lock them to the other legs with 2 1/2″ screws. Add glue to the joints and remove the excess with a damp cloth.

Fitting the seat supports

Continue the project by attaching the 2×4 support to the legs. Drill pilot holes through the supports, align the edges and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock them together tightly. Add glue to the joints to enhance the bond of the components.

Attaching the seat slats

The next step of the project is to attach the legs to the seat slats. Place the seat slats on a level surface and leave about 1/4″ between them. Use a piece of 1/4″ plywood to create consistent gaps. Drill pilot holes and toenail the legs to the slats, by using 3 1/2″ screws. Plumb the legs with a spirit level and make sure the corners are right-angled.

Fitting the supports to the benches

Fit the 2×6 supports to the seat frame, as described in the diagram. Place the supports with attention, drill pilot holes and secure them into place using 2 1/2″ galvanized screws. Add glue to the joints and remove the excess with a damp cloth.

Fitting the braces to the benches

You need to install cross braces to enhance the rigidity of the picnic benches. Cut both ends of the braces at 45 degrees and toenail them to the supports by using 3 1/2″ screws. Leave no gaps between the components and make sure the legs are perfectly plumb, before inserting the screws.

Picnic table with benches plans

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. In order to get a professional result, fill the holes and the gaps with wood filler and let it dry out for a few hours. Check if there are protruding screws and fix this issue, if necessary.

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