This step by step woodworking project is about 8 ft outdoor bench plans. This is a super simple bench I have designed so you can get the job done in just one weekend, using just 2x4s and screws. This garden bench is extremely sturdy and features a nice appearance so you can use it in any decor. You can adjust the size of the bench to suit your needs. See my other DIY projects HERE.
We recommend you to invest in the best materials you could afford. Therefore, you should buy weather-resistant lumber, such as pine or cedar. Always take accurate measurements before adjusting the size of the components at the proper size. Drill pilot holes trough the components before inserting the wood screws, to prevent the wood from splitting. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.
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8 ft Bench Plans

Building an outdoor bench
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Materials
- A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 96″ long, 5 pieces – 18″ long FRAME
- B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 23″ long, 2 pieces – 24 3/4″ long, 2 pieces – 14 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 3″ long LEGS
- C – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 21 3/4″ long, 2 pieces – 22 1/4″ long ARMRESTS
- D – 5 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 24″ long BACKREST
- E – 4 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 96″ long SEAT
- F – 5 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 93″ long BACKREST
- 17 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
- 2 1/2″ pocket screws, 2 1/2″ screws
- paint, glue
Tools
- Safety gloves, glasses
- Miter saw, jigsaw
- Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
- Drill machinery and drill bits
Time
- One Day
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Build a 8 ft long bench

Seat frame
Build the frame of the seat from 2×4 lumber. Cut the components at the right dimensions and then lock them together with 2 1/2″ screws. Drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting. Make sure the corners are square.

Building the legs
Build the legs for the garden bench from 2×4 lumber. Cut both ends of the back legs at 75 degrees, using a good miter saw. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.

Assembling the sides
Attach the 2×4 supports to the side legs, as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock everything together tightly.

Assembling the bench frame
The next step of the project is to attach the sides to the seat frame. Measure 11″ from the ground to the seat frame. Drill pilot holes through the legs and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the frame of the long outdoor bench.

Attaching the backrest supports
Build the backrests from 2×4 lumber. Round the exposed corner of the supports and then secure them to the seat frame with 2 1/2″ screws, after drilling pilot holes.

Building the middle leg
Build the middle leg from 2×4 lumber. Add glue to the joints, drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to assemble everything tightly.

Attaching the middle leg
Attach the middle leg to the frame of the 8 ft bench. Drill pilot holes through the leg and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock them together tightly. Use a carpentry square to make sure the corners are right angled.

Fitting the armrests
Build the armrests from 2×4 lumber and round one end with a jigsaw. Smooth the edges, drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to secure the armrests into place tightly.

Fitting the seat slats
Build the seat slats from 2×4 lumber. Fit the slats to the frame and align them flush at both ends. Fit 1/2″ plywood scraps between the slats to create even gaps. Drill pilot holes through the slats and insert 2 1/2″ screws to secure them into place tightly.

Attaching the backrest slats
Attach 2×4 slats to the backrest supports of the bench. Place a piece of 1/2″ plywood between the slats to create even gaps. Drill pilot holes through the slats and secure them to the supports with 2 1/2″ screws.

8 ft bench plans
This is a nice 8 ft long bench. You can adjust the size of the project easily so it suits your needs and tastes.  If you like my project, don’t forget to SHARE it on Facebook and Pinterest.
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1 comment
New to woodworking, what parts of the bench did you use the pocket screws, and could you use regular screws for those parts also?