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4x4 Truss Benches

to build rustic farmhouse benches. These benches feature chunky, 4x4 framing. This bench matches our free 4x4 truss table plans.

4x4 Truss Benches

Specifications

Project typeBench
Roomdining room
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyIntermediate
Estimated cost$50 - $100

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

4x4 Truss Benches dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 2 - 4x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 6 feet long (or a 12 footer)
  • 2 - 2x8 @ 6 feet long (or a 12 footer)
  • 1 - 2x10 @ 3 feet long (for the breadboard ends - you can also use 2x8 scraps here instead of buying a 2x10)
  • 2 1/2" pocket hole screws

Cut List

  • 2 - 4x4 @ 13 1/2"
  • 4 - 4x4 @ 13 1/4" (long point to long point, both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, parallel)
  • 2 - 4x4 @ 8" (long point to long point, both ends cut at 10 degrees off square NOT parallel)
  • 1 - 4x4 @ 65"
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 65"
  • 2 - 2x8 @ 68 1/2"
  • 2 - 2x10 @ 14 1/2"

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • sander

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Build two of the leg ends as shown above. There's a ton of different ways to join 4x4s - I really like how Whitney used a Kreg Jig to hide the joints underneath - check that out here.

4x4 Truss Benches — step 1
2

Step 2

Then attach the bottom stretcher to the two legs...

4x4 Truss Benches — step 2
3

Step 3

Next, add the two side aprons - these will give structure to the seat and look like 4x4s from the outside. TIP: Drill 1 1/2" pocket holes facing upward on the inside of the aprons before attaching for attaching the bench top in the next step.

4x4 Truss Benches — step 3
4

Step 4

Finally, build your bench top first (I recommend building with 1 1/2" pocket holes and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws first) and then attach to the bench.

4x4 Truss Benches — step 4
5

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.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/4x4-truss-benches