How to build a bench

This step by step diy woodworking project is about how to build a bench. If you want to learn more about how to build a nice garden bench with back support, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. Adjust the dimensions of the bench to suit your needs and budget. Take a look over the rest of the related projects that are on my blog.

Invest in quality materials (cedar, pine or redwood) and adjust the size of the components with professional tools. Don’t forget to take a look over the rest of the outdoor furniture plans, as there might be some other plans for your needs. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Building a bench

Materials

A – 4 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 16″ long LEGS
B – 4 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 7″ long BRACES
C – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 40″ long, 3 pieces – 14″ long FRAME
D – 3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 45″ long SEAT
E – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 24″ long SUPPORTS
F – 3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 40″ long BACK REST

3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 8 ft
1 piece of 2×6 lumber – 6 ft
3 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8 ft
2 1/2″ screws
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 bench

Building the sides of the bench

The first step of the woodworking project is to build the sides of the bench, following the instructions described in the video. Cut the legs out of 2×6 lumber and make the bottom part roundish. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the 2×4 slats and lock them to the legs with galvanized screws. Add waterproof glue to the joints in order to enhance the rigidity of the structure. Check if the corners are right-angled before inserting the screws, in order to create a rigid structure.

Building the bench frame

The next step of the woodworking project is to build the frame of the bench, out of 2×4 slats. Cut the slats at the right dimensions and lock the together with galvanized screws, after drilling pilot holes. Check if the corners are right-angled and add waterproof glue to enhance the bond of the frame. Attach the frame to both sides of the bench and insert 2 1/2″ screws to get the job done in a professional manner.

Building the back supports

Build the back rest support and cut the top edge in a decorative manner, by using a jigsaw.

Fitting the back rest supports

Fit the back supports to the frame of the bench and lock them into place with several galvanized screws. Work with attention and make sure the components are aligned properly, before inserting the screws.

Fitting the seat slats

Attaching the 1×6 slats to the seat frame is a straight-forward process, but you need to work with attention and to place them equally-spaced. Drill pilot holes at both ends of the slats before inserting the screws, in order to prevent the wood from splitting.

Building the back rest

Drill pocket holes at both ends of several 1×6 slats and secure them to the back supports with galvanized screws. Take accurate measurements and place the slats equally-spaced, in order to get a symmetrical appearance.

How to build a bench

Garden bench plans

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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