HOW TO BUILD A FARMHOUSE STYLE STORAGE BENCH
6 Materials
$15
1 Hour
Easy
Benches have to be one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own. You can use them as an entry bench, a side table, a coffee table, a nightstand… the list goes on and on. But finding them isn’t always easy, which is why I decided to build one. But, of course, I’ve got to up the ante and figure out h0w to make it more difficult 
Which is why I challenged myself to build a bench from one board. Oh – and with no screws or holes to fill.
Which is why I challenged myself to build a bench from one board. Oh – and with no screws or holes to fill.
Start by cutting the board into 4 pieces (you can get this done at the lumber store), you’ll need 1 at 48″ – 1 at 42″ – and 2 at 14.5″. You’ll also need a scrap of wood that’s around 12 inches long and 1 1/2 inch wide.
Basically you drill the first three holes on the side you want the joint on, then you turn the black knobs on the side to release the hole jig, then slide it over and drill the first two. It creates a series of 5 holes joined together so the tenon stock will fit.
Once all your holes are drilled, you’ll have them in the places marked above. Use a sander to sand each piece on all sides to make sure that it is prepped and ready for assembly.
All those holes you drilled are for Tenon stock – this is what holds the joint together. And they are TOUGH! We built our outdoor furniture two years ago and it is still just as solid as the day I built it.
Starting with the “legs”, put a line of wood glue where the joint will go – and make sure to get some in the holes as well.
Then tap in the Tenon stock– they will fit in tightly, which is how they make such a strong bond.
Add a few baskets to the bottom and you’ve got a beautiful storage bench you can use almost anywhere.
Get the full tutorial over at my blog, theshabbycreekcottage.com :)
Once the base is assembled, then use wood glue on the top and attach with more tenon stock.
Clamp it all together and let dry for 24 hours. After the glue is dry, paint or stain your bench with the color of your choice.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Comments
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4 of 6 comments
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Beautiful!! Everyone HAS to have a bench.......a good quality built bench. It is so nice to use and just to admire. They sure come in handy around a table when you don't have enough chairs. In or outdoors.
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Love your bench. Love the color you chose. I do not know of anyone that would not love to have more storage, be it in a family room, mud room, bedroom, or where ever you choose to use this awesome bench. Great job.
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Thanks so much Linda!
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Frequently asked questions
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Are there any pictures of the part of the build where the legs were added and lined up with the top? I get lost after the the 3 holes drilled in part...
Thanks!