Outdoor Wood Bench Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about wooden bench seat plans. If you want to build a rustic bench with a modern look, this project might be what you are looking for. Adjust the dimensions of the components to suit your needs, while using the techniques described in the article. This is the ideal project for a beginner, as it requires common tools and basic carpentry skills.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

Building a modern bench seat

Building a modern outdoor bench

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 12 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 18″ long LEGS
• B – 10 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 14 1/2″ long SPACERS
• C – 6 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 60″ long SEAT

• 5 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 10 ft
• 2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 8 ft
• 1 1/4″ screws
• 1 5/8″ screws
• 2 1/2″ screws
• filler, stain
• glue

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One day

Outdoor Wood Bench Plans

Building the legs

The first step of the project is to build the legs for the bench seat. Cut one end of the 2×4 beams at 45 degrees. Smooth the cut edges with 120 grit sandpaper and drill pocket holes, as shown in the image.

Fitting the seat slats

Next, you need to attach the seat slats to the legs. Cut both ends of the 2×4 beams at 45 degrees, by using a good miter saw. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the component and secure it to the vertical supports using 2 1/2″ screws. Add glue to the joints and leave no gaps between the components. Make sure the corners are square and align the edges with attention.

Attaching the spacers

Next, you need to attach the 1×4 spacers to the structure. Add glue to the joints and make sure the edges are flush. Insert 2″ brad nails to enhance the rigidity of the structure.

Assembling the bench

Fit the rest of the components, as shown in the image. Add as many layers as desired. Make sure you add glue and insert 2″ nails to lock everything together tightly.

Outdoor wood bench plans

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 120-200 grit sandpaper. Use a belt sander for best results.

Top Tip: If you want to enhance the look of the project and to protect the wooden bench from decay, we recommend you to cover the components with paint or stain.

This woodworking project was about outdoor wood bench plans. 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 and to hep us keep adding free woodworking plans for you.

EXPLORE MORE IDEAS FOR: