How to Make Outdoor Log Furniture
Historically, log furniture was crafted for form, function and durability. As a natural, easy-to-obtain material, logs were used to make bed frames, benches, tables, sofa frames and sturdy chairs, bookcases and cabinets. Outdoors, logs were used to construct tables, benches, gazebos and lawn swings. Using simple-to-follow plans, the home woodworker can readily craft beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture that will be enjoyed for generations. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Axe
- Chain saw
- Hatchet
- Draw knife
- Electric hand sander
- Weatherproof screws and bolts
- Weatherproof treatment or polyurethane
- Gloves
- Dust mask
- Eye protection
Instructions
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1
Harvest the logs: Locate standing dry or dead trees with curves, knots, burls or mineral staining that complement your design. Remove branches with an axe, hatchet or chainsaw. (A properly located branch can be incorporated into your design.) Use a draw knife to remove the bark. Dry the wood in a shed or covered area. Air drying takes at least a year. The wood needs to have less than 15-percent humidity to be workable. Cracks or insect holes in the log are normal. Discard any logs that are split or cracked in a way that compromises the strength and integrity of the log.
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2
Design and sketch your project, making note of the desired finished measurements. Most log furniture is constructed using wedged pegs and mortise and tenon joinery. Plan the sizes of the pieces in your design and how they will connect. Log furniture plans are available online or from a home and building supply store. Follow plans carefully, measuring twice, cutting once.
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3
Cut all logs according to plans. Use a fresh saw blade and sharp hand tools to ensure a clean cut. Sand each piece of wood carefully, paying attention to detail. Start sanding with 100-grit sandpaper and finish final sanding with 200-grit paper. It is easier to sand the various components prior to assembly. Do a final sanding after the furniture piece is crafted. If you desire a more rustic finish, leave some of the bark attached and only sand where splinters or slivers are evident.
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4
Assemble the piece of furniture. Make sure all joints are snug and tight. Some log woodworkers use waterproof wood glue and screws to join pieces. Others prefer to use wooden pegs and hand carving to craft a sound joint. You can also insert felt in the joints to damp squeaks and cushion movement. If wood clamps are used to join glued pieces, pad the clamp with a piece of foam to prevent denting or scratching the wood.
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Sand, then apply waterproof sealant or polyurethane coating, following the manufacturer's instructions.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear gloves, dust mask and eye protection when sawing, scraping or sanding logs.
