Building a Traditional Garden Bench

Article 100: Building a Traditional Garden Bench

By: A Woodworker Who Builds Furniture That Belongs Outdoors

This bench is a perfect weekend project that balances form and function. Made from weather-resistant wood, it will last for years on any patio or porch.

Materials

• 5/4" cedar or redwood decking

  • Seat slats: (4) @ 48" × 3.5"

  • Legs: (4) @ 17" × 3.5"

  • Cross supports: (2) @ 42" × 3.5"

  • Backrest slats: (3) @ 48" × 3.5"

  • Armrests: (2) @ 22" × 3.5"

• Exterior wood glue

• 2" deck screws

• Outdoor wood finish (linseed oil or spar urethane)

Tools Needed

• Drill and driver

• Circular saw

• Clamps

• Sandpaper (80–220 grit)

• Measuring tape

Steps

1. Build Seat Frame

   • Create a rectangular frame with the cross supports and two seat slats.

2. Attach Legs

   • Screw legs to inside of frame. Add corner blocks for strength.

3. Add Remaining Slats

   • Space evenly across seat and backrest. Use spacers.

4. Mount Armrests

   • Screw into top of legs and backrest uprights.

5. Finish

   • Sand smooth and apply a weather-resistant finish.

Visual – Side Profile

  Armrest
     ___
    |   |__
    |     |
    |     | ← Backrest
    |_____|
   /     \
  |_______| ← Seat
     ||      ← Legs