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Modern Adirondack Chair

This modern style Adirondack chair plan features clean lines and simple materials. The base is sturdy and substantial 2x6s, so it will hold heavy weights and won't blow away in the wind. You'll love our step by step plans and diagrams.

Modern Adirondack Chair

Specifications

Project typeOutdoor Seating, Lounging and Accents
RoomOutdoor
StyleModern Style Furniture Plans
DifficultyBeginner Projects

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Modern Adirondack Chair dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • Cedar wood or other exterior appropriate is recommended. You can use whitewood or spruce - just make sure the wood is finished well.
  • 1 - 2x6 @ 9 feet long or 9 foot stud length
  • 1 - 2x4 @ 4 feet long
  • 1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x6 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 8 - 2-1/2" pocket hole screws (recommended but can substitute for 2-3/4" self tapping wood screws)
  • 25 - 2-3/4" exterior self tapping wood screws
  • 70 - 2" exterior self tapping wood screws

Cut List

  • 2 – 2×6 @ 29-1/2″ (Stringers, cut in step 1)
  • 1 – 2×6 @ 21″ (Front Apron)
  • 1 - 2x6 @ 18" - (Base Support)
  • 2 – 2×4 @ 18″ (Legs, ends cut at 20 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel, long point to short point measurement)
  • 2 - 2x2 @ 24-3/16" - (Arm Supports, both ends cut at 20 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement, ends ARE parallel)
  • 1 - 2x2 @ 24" - (Back Support)
  • 3 - 1x6 @ 32" - (Back Slats)
  • 1 - 1x4 @ 18" - (Seat Back Top)
  • 5 - 1x4 @ 21" (Seat Slats)
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 23-1/2" (Arm Rests)

Tools

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

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Mark out the stringer pattern on 2x6 stringer boards.

Cut angles with a circular saw. Cut two matching.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 1
2

Step 2

Attach stringer to front apron. Pocket holes would be hidden and recommended, but you can also use 2-3/4" self tapping wood screws.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 2
3

Step 3

Add the back aprons support between the stringers.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 3
4

Cut legs on compound miter saw.

Attach to the base with 2-3/4" screws.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 4
5

Step 5

Attach 2x2 side supports with 2-3/4" screws, making sure the 2x2s are level all the way back.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 5
6

Step 6

Use 2-3/4" screws to attach the back support between the arm supports.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 6
7

Step 7

Add the two outside back slats with 2" self tapping wood screws.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 7
8

Step 8

Attach top with 2" self tapping wood screws.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 8
9

Step 9

Center remaining back slat in between and attach with 2" self tapping wood screws.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 9
10

Lay seat slats and screw down with 2" self tapping wood screws.

TIP: Attach the front and back slats. Then attach the center slat. Then center the remaining two in between.

Modern Adirondack Chair — step 10
11

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/modern-adirondack-chair