Outdoor Bench with Arbor
Build your own wood arbor bench with free arbor bench plans from
Specifications
| Project type | Outdoor Projects |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Estimated cost | $150 - $200 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 4 - 4x4 posts @ 84" (legs)
- 4 - 2x4 @ 21" (side supports)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 91" (bottom seat front/back aprons)
- 4 - 2x6 @ 91" (top lower rafters)
- 7 - 2x4 @ 48" (top upper rafters)
- 4 - 2x4 @ 28" (seat supports)
- 2 - 2x4 @ 60" (back support framing)
- 5 - 2x4 @ 15-1/2" (back support framing)
- 7 - 1x6 (or 2x6) @ 60" (seat boards)
- 6 - 2x4 @ 33" (side shelves)
- Anchoring system for anchoring to ground to keep from tipping
- NOTE: Recommend exterior screws
Cut List
- 4 - 4 x 4 x 8
- 12 - 2 x 4 x 8
- 1 - 2 x 4 x 10
- 3 - 2 x 6 x 10
- 5 - 2 x 6 x 8
- 1 - 4 x 8 lattice panel
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- jigsaw
- sander
- countersink drill bit
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Start by building the two ends by attaching with pocket holes the side pieces to the posts.
Step 2
Next, attach the front and back seat aprons to the outsides of the posts.
Attach lower rafters to tops of posts.
TIP: Predrill holes and start screws on ground first.
Step 4
Cut the upper row of rafters and notch and place on top. Screw down.
Step 5
Step 6
Build back seat framing and attach between posts and top of back seat support.
Step 7
Place seat boards on top of seat, and to back seat framing.
Step 8
Add lattice to inside of the sides - you may wish to add additional wood trim supports around the lattice panels.
Step 9
Finish off ends with boards (perfect spot for a plant!)
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/outdoor-bench-arbor