The one board bench
Build a simple yet stunning bench using one board, a scrap 2x2, and a couple of screws.
Specifications
| Project type | Bench |
|---|---|
| Room | dining room |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $50 - $100 |
Shopping List
1- 2"x10"x8' board (oak was used in this project but pine would also be fine and much cheaper)
1 length of 2x2 pine (mine was 30" long)
screws and glue
sand paper
tung oil
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- circular saw
- jigsaw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Decide on the size you want for the top piece and cut it off your 2x10 (mine is 42").
Then cut 2 legs at 16" long from the same board. Using a jig saw cut a tapered design at the tops of each leg and also a cut out at the bottom or each leg. Sand even and smooth.
Assemble using 3 pocket holes on the inside of each leg.
If needed/wanted a stretcher can be added using 2x2 pine. Pocket holes could be used. I simply screwed through the legs into the 2x2.
Step 3
Just for fun I added square head nails to the top and into the legs. this is mostly just for looks.
After lots of sanding I applied tung oil to bring out the natural color in the oak.
The 2x2 stretcher was finished with vinegar steel wool stain plus tung oil.
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-board-bench