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From Clutter to Cozy: Your Weekend Project - Build a Simple Bench With Storage
Tired of tripping over shoes by the front door? Wish you had a comfy spot to sit and pull on your boots, but also desperately need more storage space? You're not alone! Many of us dream of a more organized and inviting entryway, mudroom, or even just a spare corner in the living room. The good news is, you don't need to be a master carpenter or spend a fortune to achieve this.
Building a simple bench with storage is a fantastic DIY project that’s both practical and surprisingly easy. It’s a great way to add seating, declutter your space, and even inject a bit of personality into your home. I've built a few of these myself, starting with a very basic model and gradually refining the design. Trust me, if I can do it, you can too!
In this guide, I'll walk you through the steps of building a sturdy and attractive storage bench, perfect for stashing away shoes, blankets, toys, or whatever else needs a home. We'll cover everything from planning and choosing materials to assembling the bench and adding those finishing touches that make it truly yours. Get ready to say goodbye to clutter and hello to a more organized and inviting space!
Planning Your Storage Bench: Size, Style, and Function
Before you even pick up a saw, it's crucial to plan your project. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating a bench that fits your space and meets your specific needs.
1. Determining the Right Size
The first question to ask yourself is: Where will this bench live? Grab a measuring tape and note the available space. Consider these factors: Length: How wide do you want the bench to be? Think about how many people you want it to seat comfortably, or how much horizontal storage space you need. Depth: This will determine the width of your storage compartment. Keep in mind that a deeper bench may require more support. Height:This is important for comfort. A good height for a bench is typically between 16 and 20 inches. Consider the height of your existing furniture and what feels comfortable for sitting.
I made my first bench a little too short, which made it awkward to sit on. Learning from that experience, I now always use a chair of similar height as a reference when planning the height of my benches.
2. Choosing Your Style
The style of your bench should complement your existing décor. Are you going for a rustic farmhouse look, a sleek modern feel, or something more traditional? Consider these options: Simple and Clean: Straight lines, minimal details, and a neutral finish work well in any space. This is a great option for beginners. Farmhouse Chic: Add details like shiplap, distressed paint, or chunky legs for a rustic touch. Modern Minimalism:Opt for a sleek design with a low profile and a minimalist color palette.
Browse online for inspiration! Pinterest and home d̩cor blogs are fantastic resources for getting ideas. Pay attention to the details you like Рthe leg style, the finish, the overall shape.
3. Deciding on Storage Type
The type of storage you choose will impact the design and construction of your bench. Here are some common options: Open Storage: A simple shelf underneath the bench provides easy access to items. This is the easiest option to build. Hinged Lid: This provides hidden storage under the seat. Requires hinges and a mechanism to keep the lid open (optional but recommended). Drawers:Offers organized storage. Requires more advanced carpentry skills and hardware (drawer slides).
For a beginner, I highly recommend starting with either open storage or a hinged lid. Drawers can be tricky to get right!
Gathering Your Materials and Tools
Once you have a plan, it's time to gather your materials and tools.
1. Wood Selection
The type of wood you choose will affect the look, durability, and cost of your bench. Here are some popular options: Pine: A budget-friendly option that's easy to work with. It's not as durable as other woods, but it's great for beginners. I used pine for my first bench. Poplar: A hardwood that's relatively inexpensive and takes paint well. It's a good option for a painted bench. Oak: A durable and attractive hardwood that's ideal for a stained finish. It's more expensive than pine or poplar. Plywood: Can be used for the bench frame and storage box. Choose a high-quality plywood for best results.
Consider visiting your local lumber yard to see the wood options in person. Feel the weight, look at the grain, and ask for recommendations.
2. Essential Tools
You don't need a workshop full of fancy tools to build a simple storage bench. Here's a list of essential tools: Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements. Pencil: For marking cuts. Saw: A circular saw, hand saw, or miter saw for cutting wood. I prefer a circular saw for straight cuts, but a miter saw makes angled cuts easier. Drill/Driver: For drilling pilot holes and driving screws. Screws: Wood screws of various lengths. Wood Glue: For added strength. Sandpaper: For smoothing rough edges. Safety Glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes. Ear Protection: Especially if you're using power tools. Clamps: For holding pieces together while the glue dries.
3. Additional Supplies (Depending on Your Design)
Hinges: For a hinged lid. Lid Support: To keep the lid open. Paint or Stain: To finish the bench. Polyurethane or Varnish: To protect the finish. Brushes or Rags: For applying finish. Wood Filler: To fill any gaps or imperfections.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Now for the fun part! Let's get building. This guide assumes you're building a basic bench with a hinged lid. Adjust the steps as needed for your specific design.
1. Cut the Wood
Using your measurements and a saw, cut all the pieces of wood to the required sizes. Double-check your measurements before cutting!
2. Assemble the Frame
Build the frame of the bench by attaching the side pieces to the front and back pieces using wood glue and screws. Ensure the frame is square by measuring diagonally from corner to corner. The measurements should be the same.
3. Build the Storage Box (if applicable)
If you're adding a storage box, assemble it separately using the same method as the frame. Make sure the box fits snugly inside the frame.
4. Attach the Base
Attach the base to the frame using wood glue and screws. The base can be a solid piece of wood or a frame with slats.
5. Attach the Lid (if applicable)
Attach the lid to the frame using hinges. Position the hinges carefully to ensure the lid opens and closes smoothly. Install a lid support to prevent the lid from slamming shut.
6. Sand and Finish
Sand all the surfaces of the bench to smooth out any rough edges. Apply wood filler to any gaps or imperfections. Once the filler is dry, sand it smooth.
Apply your chosen finish (paint or stain) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the finish to dry completely before applying a protective coat of polyurethane or varnish.
Adding Finishing Touches and Personalization
This is where you can really make your storage bench your own! Here are some ideas: Upholstery: Add a padded seat cushion for extra comfort. Decorative Hardware: Choose stylish hinges, knobs, or pulls. Stencils or Decals: Add a personalized design to the bench. Paint Effects: Try techniques like distressing or antiquing for a unique look. Fabric Lining:Line the inside of the storage compartment with fabric to protect your belongings.
People Also Ask (Q&A)
What's the easiest wood to work with for beginners? Pine is generally considered the easiest and most affordable option. It's soft and cuts easily, making it forgiving for beginners. How much does it cost to build a storage bench? Costs can vary widely depending on the wood you choose and the size of the bench. A simple pine bench can cost as little as $50 - $100 in materials, while a larger bench made from hardwood could cost several hundred dollars. Can I build a storage bench without power tools? Absolutely! While power tools make the job faster, you can definitely build a simple bench with hand tools like a hand saw and a screwdriver. Just be prepared to put in a little more elbow grease! How can I make my storage bench extra sturdy? Use high-quality wood glue in addition to screws, and consider adding corner braces or supports for added stability.
Building a simple storage bench is a rewarding project that can transform your space. Don't be afraid to experiment with different designs and finishes to create a piece that truly reflects your personal style. And remember, even if you make a few mistakes along the way (we all do!), you'll learn valuable skills and end up with a functional and beautiful piece of furniture that you built yourself.
One final tip: Before you start cutting any wood, build a small prototype using scrap wood. This will allow you to test your design and make any necessary adjustments before committing to the final build. Happy building!