Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List
Build this classic Leopold bench with just 6 boards and a simple cut list. This easy DIY outdoor seating project is sturdy, comfortable, and perfect for a yard, garden, cabin, or fire pit area. make it simple to build your own bench with minimal materials and beginner-friendly construction.
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
What you need
- 1 - 2x8 @ 10 feet long
- 1 - 2x6 @ 4 feet long
- 1 - 2x10 @ 4 feet long
- 20 - 2-3/4" self tapping wood screws
TIP: Use red toned, cedar or treated wood for longest durability.
TIP: Prestain all boards before cutting, after completing, touch up unfinished cut ends
- 2 - 2x8 @ 35" - both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel, long point to short point measurement
- 2 - 2x8 @ 18" - both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel, long point to short point measurement
- 1 - 2x6 @ 48"
- 1 - 2x10 @ 45"
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- drill
- circular saw
- compound miter saw
Step by step
Step 1
Cut boards according to cut list. All angle cuts are 30 degrees off square, conserve wood by using the leftover angle cuts for the next board cut. A miter saw is preferred here for accuracy and speed. On the taller leg pieces, you'll need to trim the back off with a circular saw as shown. Use a speed square to mark the angle.
Step 2
Next, mark the insides of the taller legs as shown, using the shorter legs as a guide.
Step 3
Flip the shorter board over, and match the top lines. Attach with screws so top line matches top of the shorter leg.
Attach the 2x6 backrest board first, matching the top edges. Use the 2-3/4" screws.
Then set on a flat, level surface and attach the seat board centered on the shorter leg. Also attach the seat board from the outside of the longer leg.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
