How to Build a Simple Garden Bench

This step by step diy project is about how to build a simple garden bench. I’ve built this outdoor bench in one weekend and it was quite fun. I have followed my very own plans, but I used scrap wood that I already had around. Therefore, I made a few adjustments to the plans so I can use the boards I had and still be consistent with the design. Take a look over the rest of my woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.

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.

Tools

• Miter saw
• Drill
• Sander
• Brush set

DIY Garden Bench – Video!

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Building an outdoor bench

Building a 5 ft bench

I have designed step by step plans for this bench with lots of diagrams. See the plans for this 5 ft garden bench HERE.

The first step of the project is to cut the components for the garden bench. Using a miter saw is of great help, because it cuts accurately and you can also make the angle cuts easily.

Next, lay the components on a level surface and align the edges with attention. Fit the braces over the legs and align the edges flush.

Drill pilot holes through the braces. Drill two pilot holes for each joint.

Insert screws to attach the braces to the legs tightly. Align the edges flush and leave no gaps between the components.

Attach the backrest supports to the frames of the garden bench. Align the edges flush, drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws.

Attach the seat supports to the bench frame. Drill pilot holes and insert screws to assemble everything together.

Attach the seat slats to the sides of the bench. Plumb the sides with a spirit level. Drill pilot holes through the seat slats and insert screws into the frame of the bench. Make sure the side overhangs are equal on both sides of the bench.

Fit the rest of the slats to the garden bench.

Attach the slats to the back of the garden bench. Use a quick clamp to secure the slats to the backrest support, so you can drill pilot holes and insert the screws.

Use a spacer so you can create equal gaps between the slats.

Fit the stretcher to the base of the garden bench. This bench will reinforce the rigidity of the garden bench.

Fit the trim to the front of the bench.

Fit the support to the middle of the garden seat.

Fit the center support to the frame of the garden bench.

Sand the bench with 120-220 grit sandpaper. Apply a few coats of stain over the garden bench.

This was a quick one day project. I was getting a little rusty on building projects, so I was really eager to start making things again. This was also a great opportunity to test my new tools. Overall, this outdoor bench is a nice addition to my backyard and I plan on building more projects soon.

This woodworking project was about how to build a simple garden bench. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.

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