Amazing West Elm Bench Knock-Off

by Ursula @Home Made by Carmona

$15

1.5 Hours

Easy

Lover of all things West Elm? So am I, but not always the price tag... the chic modern West Elm slab benches I've always wanted cost upwards of $699! And when you are hoping for multiple benches like I was, well we're talking thousands of dollars here. I don't think so!
No worries, this fantastically simple tutorial walks you step-by-step on how to craft a knock off version for well under $15!! Using scrap 2x4's, paint and screws you already own, you could be spending under $6 per bench! Amazing right? Here's what I did...

diy west elm bench knock off, how to, outdoor furniture, outdoor living, painted furniture, patio, woodworking projects

Original West Elm bench for $699 (and that's not including tax or shipping)... Easy build knock-off of the same style for $15 or less.

Even better, you'll find links to 4 other incredible West Elm knock-offs, with more to come as these 5 bloggers continue the West Elm summer series!

The beauty of this project is that it is a great way to use up those leftover 2x4 scraps you have lying around your garage (what is that only me?). Besides that, you'll require constructions screws, 2x12x12 treated lumber, paint and sealer.

You'll be using a miter saw at 5 degrees to make all the cuts necessary to build legs. You will find all the dimensions, directions, and quite a few helpful tips on the blog.

You are basically assembling an A-frame with your legs... and don't sweat any imperfections, they are easily hidden with a little bit of filler. ;)

Whether you choose to paint or stain your bench legs, DO seal it well... and if they will be used outdoors in a location exposed to the harshest elements, you will want to use treated 2x4's, and add furniture tacks to the bottom so the wood doesn't sit directly on the pavement below but has breathing room so no moisture collects.

One very important tip when attaching the legs to your bench top: don't center them too much! Be sure the legs are wide enough apart to properly support sitting on the sides...no people tipping please! :D

Want to learn about how to get a nice finish to your bench top? You'll have to pop over to the blog for the little tips that bring it together. ;)

Be sure to check out all 5 ! All links are available on Home Made by Carmona, and see them right here on HomeTalk as well! Happy building!

Enjoyed the project?

You can do it! Saved to your projects

Frequently asked questions

Have a question about this project?

Ask a Question

1 question

Diane on May 16, 2020

In the pictures I can't quite see if you have a support between the legs. Can you tell me if you did or did you put the seat straight onto the wood. Many thanks.

0