Skipper's Stool

to build a skipper stool! Stool features splayed legs and lots of character!

Specifications

Project type	Side and End Table Plans
Room	Bedroom
Style	Farmhouse Furniture
Difficulty	Intermediate
Estimated cost	Under $20

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Shopping List

2 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long (there's extra so you can practice some cuts)

1 - 2x2 @ 2 feet long

1 - 2x6 @ 3 feet long

1 1/4" PH screws

2" screws

Cut List

2 - 2x6 @ 16"

2 - 2x2 @ 11"

1 - 1x3 @ 11"

4 - 1x3 @ 17 1/2" long, 15 degree angle and 10 degree bevel, ends are parallel, longest point to shortest point measurement

2 - 1x3 @ 16 1/4" (both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, ends NOT parallel, long point to long point measurement)

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1

Let's start by making the seat. Mark out the location of the 2x2s on the seat boards and attach with glue and screws. Set aside the seat. TIP: Instead of buying other 1 1/4" screws, just use a couple of 1 1/4" PH screws to attach that middle 1x3 to the seat.

Step 2

Now for those legs. The look much more difficult than they are! Just set your compound miter saw first to a 15 degree angle, meaning the entire saw head is rotated like a clock to the 15 degree mark. Now we need to angle the actual blade at 10 degrees, sort of like slicing carrots at an angle. Each saw is different, rotate yours to a 10 degree bevel. Then cut one end of the 1x3 off as close to the end as possible - we are just getting the first edge cut here. With one end cut to size, slide the board down 17 1/2", mark correct length, and cut your first leg. DO NOT MOVE OR ROTATE BOARD YET!!! Check this first leg to make sure you did everything right on the stool seat. If you did, all you will then need to do is slide the board on your saw down 17 1/2" and cut, repeating until you have all four legs. Attach legs to seat, outsides are flush to edges. I recommend hiding 3/4" PHs and 1 1/4" PH screws on inside top edge of each leg instead of 2" screws from outside. Check to make sure the overall leg widths match to make sure your legs are being installed right.

Step 3

Now the stretchers are just cut at a 10 degree angle. So turn your miter saw back to everything square. Then just rotate the entire saw head so you are cutting at a 10 degree angle. Cut the stretchers. Drill 3/4" PHs on each end, 2 per end. Attach to stool legs with glue and 1 1/4" PH screws.

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/skippers-stool