How to Make a Distressed-Finish Bench

A distressed bench can be the perfect addition to a front porch, mudroom or foyer. There are so many different looks you can achieve, depending on your style. It can be naturally rustic, black and sleek-looking or even a bright color for a kid's room.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wood
• Measuring tape
• Triangle
• Table saw
• Distressing tools such as hammers, sandpaper, etc.
• Router
• Screwdriver
• Planer
• Circular saw
• Paint brush for staining
• Screws
• Wood stain
• Wood glue

1. Pick out the wood for the bench. Keep in mind what you want it to look like finished; whether you want it to be old-looking, natural or stained a deep finish.

2. Draw a building plan for the bench. This includes the seat, legs and support for under the seat. If the legs will be cut on an angle, determine what that angle is.

3. Use the measuring tape and triangle to mark all the pieces. Cut them out with the table saw. Construct the legs of the bench and the joints to attach them to the seat.

4. Screw the legs onto both sides of the horizontal support beam. Add wood glue to the screw holes for an optimal fit.

5. Lay two 2 by 6 boards on top of the support beam. Screw holes in them. Add wood glue to the holes, then screw them down.

6. Distress the bench by hitting and scratching it with the distressing tools. Also rub it with sandpaper in some spots. Be creative.

7. Finish the bench with stain and a paintbrush. Apply two coats if necessary. Allow to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If the wood pieces don't match up perfectly, use the planer to smooth the edges.
• Cover a cushion with fabric to make the bench a comfortable place to sit.
• For a different look, paint the bench black or white then sand off the sides to reveal the natural wood. You can then rub stain over the entire thing for an aged look.

Resources

• Click here for more on making a distressed bench.