DIY 2×6 Leopold Garden Bench Plans

Hey there, builders! We’re about to tackle a fantastic DIY project: a 2×6 Leopold Garden Bench complete with a backrest and armrests. This bench is not only super comfy but also adds a touch of charm to any garden or porch. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your tools, and let’s build a bench that’ll have you sitting pretty and feeling proud in no time! Take a look over the rest of my woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration. Premium Plans for this project available in the Shop.

For this DIY 2×6 Leopold Garden Bench, you’re looking at spending around $50 to $100 on materials, including lumber, screws, and a bit of finish. With some basic woodworking skills, you can tackle this project in just one weekend, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a well-deserved break on your new bench. Grab your tools, follow the plans, and you’ll have a beautiful, sturdy bench ready to spruce up your garden in no time!

For this project, I recommend using cedar or hardwood for their durability and natural resistance to the elements. Cedar is a fantastic option because it’s lightweight, rot-resistant, and has a beautiful, rustic look. Hardwood, on the other hand, provides superior strength and longevity, making your project a sturdy and stylish addition to your home.

Projects made from these plans

DIY 2×6 Leopold Garden Bench Plans – PDF Download

Building-a-modern-Leopold-bench

Cut and Shopping Lists

A – Legs – 2×6 lumber 41″ long – 2 pieces
B – Legs – 2×6 lumber 21″ long – 2 pieces
C – Seat – 2×6 lumber 48″ long – 2 pieces
D – Legs – 2×6 lumber 15 1/2″ long – 2 pieces
E – Stretcher – 2×4 lumber 45″ long – 1 piece
F – Backrest – 2×6 lumber 48″ long – 2 pieces
G – Armrests – 2×4 lumber 15 1/4″ long – 2 pieces
G – Armrests – 2×4 lumber 6 1/2″ long – 2 pieces

2×6 lumber 8 ft – 4 pieces
2×4 lumber 8 ft – 1 piece
2 1/2″ screws – 100 pieces
Wood glue – 1 can
Stain – 1 can

Tools

Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

One weekend

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Outdoor Bench from Standard 2×6 Lumber

Cutting-the-legs-for-the-garden-bench

First up, let’s cut the legs for the garden bench using 2×6 lumber. Mark your cut lines and then grab your circular saw or miter saw to make the cuts. Once you’ve got your pieces, smooth the edges with a sander to get them nice and clean.

Assembling-the-side-frames

Next up, we need to assemble the sides for the outdoor bench. Lay the legs on a level surface and use a straight edge to ensure the bottoms are perfectly aligned. Follow the diagram to lock the legs together properly. Drill pilot holes and secure them tightly with three screws each.

Seat-boards-detail

Fitting-the-seat-slats

Next, it’s time to start attaching the 2×6 seat slats. Center the boards on the frame and use a 1/4″ spacer between each board for even spacing. Drill pilot holes, then secure the seat boards with 2 1/2″ screws. Use two screws for each end of every board to keep everything nice and secure.

Double-legs

Fitting-the-double-front-leg

Notice that we need to attach an extra piece of 2×6 lumber to the front legs. Make the angle cuts on the boards, then secure them in place with 2 1/2″ screws. Align the edges flush and add glue to the joints for extra strength.

Fitting-the-stretcher

Use 2×4 lumber for the stretcher. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the stretcher and secure it to the sides with 2 1/2″ screws. Refer to the diagrams to ensure the stretcher is centered on the side frames.

DIY Backrest and Armrests

Attaching-the-backrest-slats

Now, let’s attach the 2×6 boards to the back of the bench. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the boards, then insert 2 1/2″ screws to secure them to the side legs. Make sure the boards are aligned flush with the back legs for a clean, sturdy finish.

Armrest supports

Fitting-the-armrest-supports

Now, let’s add the final touches to the modern wood bench. Use 2×4 lumber for the supports. Make the angle cuts on the supports and drill pocket holes on the lower side, which will attach to the frame. Align the supports in place and secure them with 2 1/2″ screws.

Armrests

Use 2×4 lumber for the armrests. Grab a jigsaw to round off the exterior edges of the board. Next, cut out the notch in the board as described in the diagram. Finally, smooth all the edges with sandpaper to ensure a nice, clean finish.

Fitting-the-armrests

Next up, we’re going to attach the armrests with 2 1/2″ screws. Drive the screws through the armrests into the supports and the back legs. Make sure to drill pilot holes first to prevent the wood from splitting.

Finishing touches – DIY 2×6 Leopold Outdoor Garden Bench

Dimensions-for-outdoor-wooden-bench

And there you have it, your very own modern 48″ wide Leopold bench with armrests! This stylish and comfortable bench is perfect for any outdoor space, providing a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the fresh air.

With its sturdy construction and sleek design, it’s sure to be a favorite for years to come.

Wooden garden bench plans – back view

Last but not least, let’s focus on the finishing touches. Fill any holes with wood putty and smooth the surface with 120-220 grit sandpaper. Apply a few coats of stain or paint to enhance the look and protect it from the elements.

Modern Leopold bench plans

2×6 garden bench with armrests plans

If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding weekend project, these DIY 2×6 Leopold Garden Bench plans are just the ticket. Not only will you end up with a sturdy, comfortable bench to enjoy your garden, but you’ll also get that awesome sense of accomplishment from building something with your own hands.

If you want to get the Premium plans with all the extras, just press the GET PREMIUM PLANS button bellow. If you want to get the free plans, just read the blog FAQs.

This woodworking project was about DIY 2×6 Leopold garden bench plans. 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.