How to Build a Simple Bench

This step by step diy woodworking project is about how to build a simple bench. If you want to learn more about building an outdoor dining table, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. There are many other designs and plans to choose from when building projects for your backyard, so make sure you take a close look over the related plans that are featured on our site.

There are many plans and designs to choose from, so make sure you take a close look over the rest of the bench plans featured on our website. Plan everything with attention and adjust the size and the shape of the bench to suit your needs. Plumb the legs and make sure the corners are right-angled before inserting the galvanized screws into place. Drill pilot or pocket holes to prevent the wood from splitting. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

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How to Build a Simple Bench

Building a simple bench

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 2 pieces of 2×12 lumber – 14″ long LEGS
• B – 2 pieces of 2×12 lumber – 29″ long STRETCHER
• C – 2 pieces of 2×12 lumber – 36″ long SEAT

• 2 pieces of 2×12 lumber – 8 ft
• 2 1/2″ screws
• 1 5/8″ screws
• wood filler
• wood glue
• stain/paint

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Post hole digger, Concrete mixer

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One day

Related

• Bench plans
• Wooden bench plans

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Simple bench plans

Fitting the bench legs

The first step of the woodworking project is to build the legs for the wooden bench. Cut the legs out of the 2×12 lumber and make sure you take accurate measurements. Smooth the cut edges with sandpaper and remove the residues with a vacuum cleaner.

In order to enhance the look of the legs, we recommend you to make the notches using a circular saw. It is essential to mark the cut lines with a pencil on the legs before making the cuts.

Fitting the stretcher

The next step of the project is to lock the legs of the bench together by fitting the stretcher. Build the stretcher out of 2×12 lumber and drill pocket holes at both ends. Plumb the legs with a spirit level and secure the stretcher to the center of the legs using 2 1/2″ screws. Add glue to enhance the rigidity of the structure.

Fitting the seat

In order to get the job done in a professional manner, we recommend you to build the seat out of 2×12 lumber. Cut the corners in a decorative manner using a circular saw and smooth the edges with fine-grit paper.

Center the frame of the bench to the seat and drill pocket holes through the stretcher. Insert 2 1/2″ galvanized screws into the seat and add waterproof glue to enhance the rigidity of the structure.

How to build a simple bench

One of the last steps of the woodworking project is to take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, fill the pilot holes with wood putty and smooth the surface with 120-grit sandpaper.

Top Tip: If you want to enhance the look of the woodworking project and to protect the table from decay, we recommend you to cover the components with paint or stain. Place the bench in a proper location and move it whenever necessary.

This woodworking project was about how to build a simple bench. If you want to see more outdoor plans, we recommend you to check out the rest of our step by step projects. LIKE us on Facebook and Google + to be the first that gets out latest projects.

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