Easiest to Build Mudroom Bench
Build a custom mudroom bench! This bench features a simple, basic design that is easy to clean under and maximum vertical height for boots, shoes, or baskets and bins. The uprights are plywood pieces, the top is made out of 1x pine boards. This is a lightweight, easy build, it's a must make for a larger mudroom space. with diagrams and build video from
Specifications
| Project type | Bench |
|---|---|
| Room | Storage Solutions |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- Plywood panels, 17-1/4" tall x desired depth (15-1/4" as shown) - Shelf Help Configurator Tool
- 1x3 or 1x4 boards for bay supports
- 1x boards in overall length of bench for bench top
- 1-1/4" pocket hole screws (about 20-30 per bay)
Cut List
- 3/4" plywood @ 17-1/4" tall x desired bench depth, front edge finished with edge banding
- 3 - 1x3 or 1x4 @ bay width (per bay)
- 1x boards in overall length for bench top
Tools
- measuring tape
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
PLAN YOUR BENCH - First, measure the space and determine:
• Overall length (keep in mind 1x boards for the top are hard to source over 16 feet long). The bench shown in this photo is 14 feet long. • Depth - choose 15-1/4", 20-1/4" or 23-1/4" depths. Note that the top may overhang on the front, increasing the overall bench depth • Height - Should be 18" with a finished top. Finished top is usually 3/4" thick. Design your bench using my free Configurator Tool using your measurements. Download the plans and cut the plywood pieces and finish front edges with edge banding.
Cut 1x3 or 1x4 bay supports, three per bay.
Drill 1-1/4" pocket holes as shown in the diagram. TIP: Slightly offset pocket holes to one side to avoid intersecting screws when assembling. Assemble the bench with the bay supports.
TOP
Figure the boards needed for the top. TIP: Cut boards 1" long, and then trim entire bench top after completion for square finished ends. Join boards together edge to edge with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Sand top in direction of wood grain. Attach bench top to base. Be careful to not overdrive screws into floor if assembling in a finished room. Attach entire bench to studs in wall.
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/easiest-build-mudroom-bench-build-any-size