How to Build a Simple Wood Bench

Rustic wood adds beauty to a bench.

A simple wood bench is a humble piece of furniture, yet serves its owner well. Benches often are positioned in transition points throughout a living space. Hallways, entryways and garden paths are all popular places to have a simple wood bench. Benches you find in stores are often expensive and lack character. You can make a simple wood bench to suit your needs and style. Add character to the project by using salvaged materials.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-12-by-96-inch Douglas fir board
• 2-by-4-by-48-inch Douglas fir board
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Miter saw
• Router with round-over bit
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Drill
• 3/16-inch drill bit
• 2 ½-inch stainless steel deck screws
• Screwdriver bit
• Wood finish

Instructions

1. Measure 15 inches on the 2-by-12-by-96-inch Douglas fir board and mark with a pencil. Cut two 15-inch pieces from this board using the miter saw. Take each 2-by-12-by-15-inch board can cut a 14-degree angle on each end of the board using the miter saw. The angles should be parallel. These boards will form the legs.
   Measure, mark, and cut one 48-inch board out of the remaining section of the 2-by-12-by-96-inch Douglas fir board. This will form the seat.
   Measure, mark, and cut the 2-by-4-by-48-inch Douglas fir board at 39 inches. Cut a 14-degree angle on each end. These angles should be opposite each other. This board will form the brace underneath the seat. The angles on the brace will match up with the legs, which angle outward toward the bottom.

2. Use a router and round-over bit to round off the edges of the seat and sides. This will provide soft edges and a clean look to the bench. Sand all of the parts until smooth using 120-grit sandpaper.

3. Measure and mark the center of the seat. Measure and mark the center of the board 6 inches in from each end and every 6 inches in between those points. Use a drill and 3/16-inch drill bit to drill each of those points.

4. Place the seat upside-down on a work surface. Place each leg 4 inches in from each end. The leg should project outward from the bench. Use a drill and screwdriver bit to drive two 2 ½-inch deck screws from the inside of each leg into the underside of the seat. Place the brace between the legs in the center of the seat board. Hold the brace in place and flip the bench upright. Drive the screws into each hole along the center of the seat and down into the brace.

5. Apply your choice of wood finish. Follow the directions provided with the wood finish.
   Allow the finish to thoroughly dry and begin using it.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with different materials and finishes to create different styles.

• Wear safety glasses.

• Follow tool manuals for safe operation.

References

• Wayne of the Woods: Bench
• Lees Wood Projects: Heart Bench
• Danny Lipford: How to Build a Wooden Outdoor Bench

Resources

• Ideas for Deck Designs: Building Benches