FindWoodPlansWoodworking Plans

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa

This free one-arm sofa plan is part of our wildly popular 2x4 outdoor collection— built thousands of times and loved all over the world! Designed to work with standard 24"x24" cushions and our free sofa plans, it's the perfect piece to start or expand your custom backyard sectional. Build one, build them all, and create the outdoor lounge of your dreams—on a DIY budget!

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa

Specifications

Project typeOutdoor Seating, Lounging and Accents
RoomOutdoor
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyIntermediate

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 11 - 2X4 @ 104-5/8" Feet long
  • 2-1/2" to 3" long exterior self tapping wood screws
  • Wood filler
  • Medium grit sandpaper
  • Exterior wood glue
  • 24" x 24" deep seat cushions

Cut List

This cut list is for 24" x 24" cushions.

  • (3) 2x4 @ 70-1/2" ((Or cushion width x 3) - 1-1/2")
  • (10) 2x4 @ 25-1/2" (includes back support) (or cushion depth + 1-1/2")
  • (1) 2x4 @ 12-1/2"
  • (6) 2x4 @ 72" (or cushion width x 3)
  • (1) 2x4 @ 70-3/4" (back support--cut to fit) ((Or cushion width x 3) - 1-1/4")
  • (1) 2x4 @ 28-1/2" (top arm piece)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • drill
  • circular saw

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Cut boards using a compound miter saw (preferred) but you can also use a circular saw.

Build the seat frame using the self tapping screws.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 1
2

Step 2

Build one of the arms with the screws.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 2
3

Step 3

Attach seat frame to the arm with screws. Recommend screwing at an angle into the legs if possible for maximum strength.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 3
4

Step 4

Attach legs to armless ends with screws.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 4
5

Step 5

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 5
6

Step 6

Place decking on top, evenly spacing, and screw down, two screws per joint (recommended).

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 6
7

Step 7

Optional: Additional back support can be added as shown.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 7
8

Step 8

Optional: Additional back support can be added as shown.

One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa — step 8
9

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/one-arm-2x4-outdoor-sofa-sectional-piece