FindWoodPlansWoodworking Plans

Outdoor Chair

Build your own outdoor side chair frame. make it easy! Uses off the shelf materials and basic tools. Outdoor chair features an inclined seat and backrest, wide armrests and sturdy 2x construction. Heavy (so won't blow away in the wind). Also build the matching sofa and matching loveseat.

Outdoor Chair

Specifications

Project typeSofa
RoomOutdoor
StyleModern Style Furniture Plans
DifficultyIntermediate
Estimated costUnder $20

Shopping List

  • 1 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 2x6 @ 8 feet long
  • 4 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2-1/2" Kreg Pocket Hole screws (about 40)
  • 2 -1/2" self tapping wood screws (about 30)
  • 1-1/2" self tapping wood screws (about 8)

Cut List

  • 4 - 2x4 @ 22" - legs
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 34" - arm rests
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 31" - arm supports
  • 2 - 2x6 @ 31" - arm supports
  • 2 - 2x6 @ 25-1/2" - bases
  • 1 - 2x4 @ 25-1/2" - back
  • 1 - 2x2 @ 25-1/2" - back rest top
  • 4 - 2x4 @ 23-3/4" - back slats
  • 1 - 2x6 @ 29-1/2" - back base
  • 2 - 2x2 @ 29-1/2" - seat slat cleats
  • 4 - 1x4 @ 23-1/2" - seat slats

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • drill
  • compound miter saw

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on top of each of the legs.

Attach to the arm rest from underneath with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws. Leg is shown upside down.

Outdoor Chair — step 1
2

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x4 side supports.

Attach to the insides of the legs with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws. Leg is shown upside down.

Outdoor Chair — step 2
3

Step 3

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x6 end aprons. Also drill three 1-1/2" pocket holes along one edge. Attach inside the leg, flush to the outside, pocket holes hidden on insides, with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws. Leg is shown upside down.

Outdoor Chair — step 3
4

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x6 and 2x4s shown.

Attach with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws to the legs, all pocket holes are on the insides, or facing downward.

Outdoor Chair — step 4
5

Step 5

Attach 2x2 to the back slat pieces with 2-1/2" exterior self tapping screws. Two screws per joint recommended. Attach back slats to the base with 2-1/2" self tapping wood screws, with a 2" gap on each end, keeping the same spacing as the top. Two screws per joint recommended.

Outdoor Chair — step 5
6

Step 6

Set back inside the chair frame and attach with 2-1/2" self tapping screws to the side 2x6s and to the back.

Outdoor Chair — step 6
7

Step 7

Attach seat slats cleats inside the chair frame with 2-1/2" self tapping screws.

Outdoor Chair — step 7
8

Step 8

Lay seat slats down on the 2x2 cleats and attach wtih 1-1/2" self tapping screws.

Outdoor Chair — 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/outdoor-chair-modern-comfort-collection