FindWoodPlansWoodworking Plans
Home/Seating

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench

This easy to build bench makes a statement! We love how it drains water and is very sturdy. This is a beginner friendly project plan suitable for a new builder! to build a modern slatted bench for your outdoor space include step by step diagrams and shopping lists. See Matching Console Table Plans Here

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench

Specifications

Project typeBench
RoomTeens
StyleModern Style Furniture Plans
DifficultyBeginner Projects
Estimated cost$20 - $50

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 9 - 2x4 @ of feet long or stud length
  • 3 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2" self tapping wood screws or finish nails
  • wood glue
  • Optional 1 1/4" and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws if desired

Cut List

  • 7 - 2x4 @ 72"
  • 14 - 2x4 @ 14 1/2"
  • 12 - 1x4 @ 18"

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • circular saw
  • nailer
  • sander
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

TIP: Unless you are spray painting, it may be difficult to paint between slats. You may wish to paint or stain all of your 2x4 @ 72" long first. Leg boards you will not have this issue. Choose your best looking 2x4 top board and leg boards. Set them best looking side down on the table. We'll be working from the front backwards. Lay out 1 long 2x4 and 2 short 2x4s. Position the 1x4 on top, apply glue and nail or screw down, to both the top and leg 2x4s.

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench — step 1
2

Step 2

Add a layer of 2x4s on top of the 1x4s.

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench — step 2
3

Step 3

Next, repeat with a layer of 1x4s, nailing or screwing into both the top and leg 2x4s.

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench — step 3
4

Step 4

Continue until you run out of boards:)

Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench — 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/modern-slat-top-outdoor-wood-bench