How to build a simple bench

This step by step diy woodworking project is about how to build a simple bench. If you want to learn more about building a diy bench, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. There are so many bench plans and designs to choose from, so make sure you take a close look over the rest of the related woodworking projects that are featured on our website.

Before starting the actual construction project, we recommend you to plan everything, as to save money and to keep the costs under control. Adjust the size and the design of the bench to suit your needs. In addition, we recommend you to invest in high-quality materials, such as pine, redwood or cedar, as they have a nice finish and are highly durable, especially in a humid environment.

If you don’t have a rich expertise in woodworking field, you should ask a friend to give you a hand with the project. There are many things that you could go wrong, so make sure you plan everything and invest in quality materials. Select the lumber with attention, making sure the components are perfectly straight and in a very good condition. Use a carpentry square to check if the corners are right-angled. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Building a simple bench

Materials

A – 2 pieces of 1×8 lumber – 11 1/4″ long LEGS
B – 2 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 16 1/2″ long SUPPORTS
C – 1 piece of 1×8 lumber – 18″ long SEAT

1 piece of 1×8 lumber – 2 ft
1 piece of 1×2 lumber – 4 ft
1 1/4″ screws
glue, stain
wood filler

Tools

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

Tips

Apply several coats of wood stain to the wooden components
Fill the holes with wood filler and smooth the surface

Time

One Day

Building a simple bench

Building the legs

The first step of the woodworking project is about building the legs for the simple bench. In order to get the job done in a professional manner, we recommend you to mark the cut lines on the 1×8 slats and to get the job done with a jigsaw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper and check if the legs are equal in size and shape.

Fitting the supports

The next step of the woodworking project is to attach the supports to the legs of the bench. In order to get a professional result, we recommend you to drill pocket holes at both ends of the supports. Align the supports with great care and insert 1 1/4″ screws into the legs. Add waterproof glue to the joints and remove the excess using a damp cloth.

Attaching the bench seat

Attach the 1×8 seat to the bench frame, as described in the plans. Drill pocket holes through the supports and insert 1 1/4″ screws into the seat. Add waterproof glue to the joints in order to enhance the rigidity of the structure.

How to build a simple bench

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood filler and let it to dry out for several hours. Afterwards, smooth the wooden surface with fine-grit sandpaper and vacuum the residues.

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