FindWoodPlansWoodworking Plans
Home/Outdoor

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.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List

Specifications

Project typeOutdoor Seating, Lounging and Accents
RoomOutdoor
DifficultyBeginner Projects

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 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

Cut List

  • 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"

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • drill
  • circular saw
  • compound miter saw

Step-by-step Instructions

1

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.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List — step 1
2

Step 2

Next, mark the insides of the taller legs as shown, using the shorter legs as a guide.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List — step 2
3

Step 3

Flip the shorter board over, and match the top lines. Attach with screws so top line matches top of the shorter leg.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List — step 3
4

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.

Easy 6-Board Leopold Bench with Cut List — 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/easy-6-board-leopold-bench-free-plans-cut-list