Around-the-Tree Bench
An around-the-tree bench is a great way to add seating, shade, and charm to your backyard. Instead of placing a regular bench near a tree, this design wraps around the trunk and turns the tree into the centerpiece of the space. This free DIY around-the-tree bench plan is designed to be simple, sturdy, and easy to modify. The bench uses an octagon shape, which gives it a cleaner, more finished look while still keeping the build beginner-friendly. The center opening is about 36 inches wide, leaving extra space around the tree trunk. That makes the bench easier to level, easier to install, and better for the tree as it grows. The standard size works well for many small to medium backyard trees. The finished bench is roughly 6 feet wide, with a comfortable seat depth of about 18 inches. Since every tree is a little different, the plans can be adjusted by changing the size of the center opening or making the bench sections longer or shorter. This is a great outdoor woodworking project because it does not need to be overly complicated. The bench is built in repeatable sections, so once you make one section, the rest follow the same basic layout. It is a good weekend project and can be made with common lumber such as 2x4s, 2x6s, and basic outdoor screws.
Specifications
| Project type | Outdoor Seating, Lounging and Accents |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 2 - 4x4 @ 12 feet long
- 5 - 2x6 @ 8 feet long
- 3 - 2x4 @ 10 feet long
- 2 - 1x4 @ 10 feet long
- about 200 2-3/4" self tapping star bit exterior screws
- exterior penetrating wood stain (can be semi transparent, transparent, opaque for a paint look)
TIP - Prestain the boards before assembly, this project will be VERY difficult to finish after assembly
Cut List
- 16 - 4x4 @ 16-1/2" - leg set legs
- 8 - 2x4 @ 19" - leg set tops
- 16 - 2x4 @ 18" - one end cut at 22.5 degrees bevel off square, long point measurement - leg set sides
- 8 - 2x4 @ 3-1/2" - blocking
- 8 - 2x6 @ 26-1/4" - long point measurement, both ends cut at 22.5 degrees off square
- 8 - 2x6 @ 11-7/8" - short point measurement, both ends cut at 22.5 degrees off square
- 8 - 2x6 @ 21-3/8" - long point measurement, both ends cut at 22.5 degrees off square
- 8 - 1x4 @ 26-1/4" - long point measurement, both ends BEVELED at 22.5 degrees off square
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- compound miter saw
- sander
- level
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Attach the top 2x4 to the tops of the 4x4s with self tapping screws and glue, there screws per joint. Build eight leg sets. Hexagon (6-sides) modification - build 6 of these leg sets
Step 2
Attach the side 2x4s to the sides of the legs, exactly as shown. There will be a 2x4 on both sides of the legs, both beveled on the outsides (so the 2x4 not shown is attached in mirror to the 2x4 shown). Hexagon (6 sides) modification - cut the side 2x4s with a 30 degree angle instead of 22.5
Step 3
Add blocking in the legs to tie it all together.
On a flat level surface, layout the bench with the 2x6 piece and make sure everything fits.
The bench can be assembled now in sections, then the sections attached together on final assembly around the tree. Hexagon modifications - 2x6 end cuts are 30 degrees. Cut the outer row, and then measure and cut remaining rows of 2x6 deck boards.
Step 5
Add the remaining boards as shown.
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/free-diy-around-tree-bench-plans-easy-build-and-customize