Bench DIY project: build and paint your own
We have a fantastic step-by-step guide on how you can build and paint your very own bench using 2 x 4 wood, a few tools and some paint. Start your very own bench DIY project now.
Planning is the most important part of any bench DIY project, so before you get started, be sure to have all your tools and wood all lined up, pre-cut and ready to be assembled. Be sure to mark your cut lines on the slats and use a jigsaw to make the cuts. The sizes given in this guide can be amended to suit your individual needs to fit in any space. Its simple design ensures that the style of this bench can match the decor of most patios, gardens and reception areas, both residential and office/business-based.
Starting your bench DIY project
Let’s start our DIY bench project by learning how to build your bench.
Here are few tips to ensure you see a professional level result when you’re finished: take measurements more than once to make sure they’re accurate; align at both ends and add waterproof glue to joints; use professional tools when making pilot holes, and round edges with sandpaper to create a rigid structure.
What you’ll need for your bench DIY project:
- A – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 24″ long, 2 pieces – 36″ long SIDES
- B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 60″ long, 4 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 18″ long SEAT FRAME
- C – 5 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 60″ long SEAT
- D – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 21″ long, 1 piece of 2×4 lumber – 55″ long STRETCHER
- 1/2″ screws
- Tape measure
- Carpentry pencil
- Glue
- Spirit level
- Drill and drill bits
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Mitre saw/jigsaw/circular saw
- Sandpaper/sander
- Varnish
- Primer
- Paint
- Paintbrush
1. Getting started
So, the first thing you need to do is build the frame. Cut the components to the right size from your 2 x 4 lumber and at each end of the shorter components, drill pocket holes. Secure these to their perpendicular slats using two half-inch screws, put some glue in the joints and ensure the corners are right-angled.
2. The legs
Next, it’s time for the legs. Cut to the right size and drill pilot holes to stop the wood from splitting. Line up with the frame of the bench and use two half-inch screws to secure. Use a spirit level to ensure the seat is perfectly horizontal and the legs are flush.
3. Stretcher
To add strength to your bench, fit the stretcher to the bottom of your bench and drill two pocket holes at each end of the bench braces and secure them to the legs using two screws.
4. The seat
The seat is made from 2 x 4 lumber. Simply drill pilot holes through each of the slats and secure using two screws, ensuring you place the slats with equal spacing.
Now you have a complete, simplistic garden bench to enjoy, but what now?
It’s time to paint your bench.
Painting your DIY bench
Ensure that the bench is clean and then sand the bench all over to ensure the surface is ready and primed for a finish.
It’s important that you apply finish or paint to your garden bench to help protect it against the elements. Many finishes and paints protect the wood against UV rays and can even help to reduce rot and decay caused by weather, such as this varnish. Ensure you’re aware of the perils of outdoor furniture and how to ensure your bench is protected from the elements.
Use a premium primer and apply several coats to the bench, finishing with an oil-based paint to help protect against rain.
Ensure that your bench is completely covered, with every nook, crack and cranny filled, varnished and painted to ensure the long lifespan of your brand new bench. Be sure to gain some bench colour inspiration before you get started for great results!
