Essential Wood Outdoor Chair Frame for Deep Seat Cushion
to build your own outdoor chair frame designed to fit deep seat cushions. This is an easy, beginner woodworking project that makes a very comfortable and sturdy patio lounge chair. from
Specifications
| Project type | Outdoor Seating, Lounging and Accents |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 5 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 2x2 @ 2 feet long (or rip down a 2x4 scrap)
- 50 - 3" self tapping wood screws
- Exterior finish (fence, deck or siding products)
- Deep seat cushion set (24" x 24" x 5" or 25" x 25" x 5" seat cushion)
Cut List
- 2 - 2x4 @ 35-1/8" - arm rests
- 2 - 2x4 @ 32-1/4" both ends cut at 5 degrees off square, ends are parallel, long point to short point measurement - seat stringer
- 8 - 2x4 @ 24"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 20-1/2”
- 1 - 2x2 @ 24" (or rip a 2x4 scrap down to 1-1/2" wide and use)
Tools
- measuring tape
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- compound miter saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Attach the armrest to the legs with two screws per joint.
Mark the seat stringer placement and attach with two screws per joint. For thinner seat cushions, the seat stringer can be moved upward.
Attach the second armrest to the remaining two legs.
Then position on top of the first arm rest and position the seat stringer so it match the first seat stringer. The two arm rest need to be built in mirror. Attach with two screws per joint.
Attach the front apron with two screws per joint.
Measure back the depth of the seat cushion (24" or 25") and attach the back seat slat. Then evenly space the remaining slats and attach. TIP: Place the center slat and attach, then center the remaining two slats. Use 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws to attach the back support.
Step 4
Position the remaining two 2x4 @ 24" at the back of the last seat slat. It will rest on the back rest. Attach to the seat stringer. Then attach at the back and the base - these boards add considerable structure to the chair and act as a cross bracing.
Measure and cut the top 2x2 to fit.
If you have a tablesaw, you can rip a 2x4 down in size and attach it at the top.
For more back support, a third board in the center is recommended.
For an overall "beefier" chair, add the arm supports and screw from top and legs.
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/essential-wood-outdoor-chair-frame-deep-seat-cushion