Simple Bench
A good place for rolled towels, a good place to sit! This simple spa bench is compact enough to fit in most baths, but adds both storage and seating. This is a to build your own wood bench using pine boards. You can nail or screw this bench together. This is a beginner friendly project plan.
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
What you need
- 1 – 1×10, 10′ Long
- 1 – 1×12, 4′ Long
- 3 - 1×3, 8′ Long
- 2 – 1×10 @ 17 1/4″ (Sides)
- 2 – 1×10 @ 34 1/2″ (Shelves)
- 4 – 1×3 @ 17 1/4″ (Legs)
- 4 – 1×3 @ 31″
- 1 – 1×12 @ 37″ (Top)
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- hammer
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- sander
Step by step
Step 1
Build the Box. Start by marking the sides 3″ from the bottom. This will be the bottom of the shelves. Fasten the bottom shelf in place, using 2″ nails or screws and glue. Then fasten the top shelf in place.
Step 2
Legs. Fasten the legs to the sides of the bench as shown above, keeping outside edges flush. Make sure you also fasten to the sides and the shelves. The legs reinforce the sides
Step 3
Shelf Trim. Fasten the shelf trim to the shelves, as shown above. You may need to nail at an angle from the bottom corners of the shelf trim into the legs. Use 2″ nails and glue.
Step 4
Top. Mark the sides of the top in 1/4″ and 1/2″ from the ends. Position on top of the bench and fasten in place with 1 1/4″ nails and glue.
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.
