How to Build a Sturdy Cedar Garden Bench

Article 3: How to Build a Sturdy Cedar Garden Bench

By: A Practical Woodworker with Dirty Hands and a Love for Cedar

There’s nothing like sitting on a handmade bench in your garden with a cup of coffee. This cedar bench is designed to be weather-resistant, durable, and simple to build in a weekend. It seats two comfortably and can be built with basic tools and materials.

Project Overview

• Dimensions: 48” wide x 18” deep x 18” seat height

• Wood Type: Western red cedar (naturally rot-resistant)

• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate

• Time: ~5 hours build time + finish

Materials List

MaterialDimensionsQuantityCedar 2x496” (8 ft)4Cedar 1x496” (for slats)5Exterior wood screws2-1/2”1 boxWood glue (optional)Waterproof (Titebond III)1 bottleOutdoor finishDeck oil or spar urethane1 qt

Cut List

PartSize (inches)QuantitySeat slats48 x 3-1/2 x 3/45Side rails42 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/22Front/back rail12 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/22Legs17 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/24Leg stretchers36 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/22

Tools Needed

• Miter saw or circular saw

• Drill/driver with bits

• Countersink bit

• Clamps

• Square

• Orbital sander

• Brush or rag for finish

Step-by-Step Build

1. Cut Your Lumber

Use a miter saw or circular saw with a speed square to cut all pieces to length. Sand edges with 120 grit before assembly.

2. Build the Leg Assemblies

Each side consists of:

• (2) Legs

• (1) Side rail (top)

• (1) Leg stretcher (bottom)

Assembly:

• Legs go inside the rails, flush with the top.

• Use wood glue and 2 screws at each joint.

• Check square before screwing.

• The stretcher sits 3” up from the bottom.

3. Join the Frames

• Connect the leg assemblies using the front and back rails.

• The entire base should be square—measure diagonals to confirm.

4. Attach Seat Slats

• Lay 5 slats evenly spaced across the top.

• Leave ~1/4” gap between each.

• Screw down each slat with 2 screws per end.

5. Sand and Finish

• Sand all surfaces to 180 grit.

• Apply a UV-resistant outdoor oil or spar urethane with a rag.

• Let dry 24 hours before use.

Bench Assembly Diagram

TOP VIEW:                       SIDE VIEW:

+------------------------------+     +------------------------+
|  [=]  [=]  [=]  [=]  [=]     |     |    Slats               |
|     (5 slats spaced)         |     |  ┌────────────┐        |
+------------------------------+     |  │            │        |
                                     |  │   Leg       │        |
                                     |  │   Frame     │        |
                                     |  └────────────┘        |
                                     +------------------------+

Finishing Touches

• Consider rounding edges with a router or sander for comfort.

• Add a center support under the slats if your bench will hold heavier weight.

• Customize length or height to fit your garden nook.

Why Cedar?

• It’s lightweight, smells great, and naturally repels rot and insects.

• It ages to a silvery gray unless treated—both looks are beautiful.

Summary

This cedar garden bench is a functional and beautiful addition to any outdoor space. It’s simple enough for a beginner but solid enough to last many seasons outside.