How to Make a Tree Seat

Adding a tree seat will create architecture in your garden.

One feature that most garden enthusiasts and amateur landscapers usually overlook is seating. You can always install portable furniture or traditional wrought iron benches and chairs, but it lacks the charm of something built with your two hands. It is much simpler than you would think to build your own tree seat. Some wood, concrete and a free weekend are what you need to make an attractive and functional feature for your garden.

Things You'll Need

• Post hole diggers Soft wood (1 ½ X 3 inch) Soft wood (1 inch X 2 inch) Drill Saw Screws Concrete Ax Wood glue Paint or wood preservative

Instructions

1. Choose the tree that you wish to accent with a tree seat. It should be large enough that it offers shade, but not so large that the structure becomes impossible to build.

2. Chop out any growth and rake the area. Dig the leg holes about 15 or 18 inches apart in two rows about the same distance either side of the trunk.

3. 

   Move the legs in position. Use 1 ½ inch by 3 inch softwood, treated with a preservative. You will need eight lengths about 27 inches long. Concrete them into position.

4. Cut four pieces of 1 inch by 2 inch softwood for the cross-bars. Allow a 3-inch overhang at each end. Drill and screw these to the posts.

5. Cut slats to the required length. The number of slats will depend on the size of your seat. Allow for an inch of space between each slat.

6. Paint the slats and crossbars with white paint or a wood preservative or stain, if you prefer a natural wood look. Allow the wood to dry before final assembly.

7. Test the spacing, using a scrap of wood that is the correct width as a guide. When you are satisfied that they are evenly spaced on the cross-bars, mark the positions with a pencil.

8. Glue and nail or screw the wood slats into position. Then touch up any painting that needs to be done.