Ashley's X Bench for X Picnic Table

Difficulty

Intermediate

Free simple step by step project plans to do it yourself and build a x bench, inspired by Pottery Barn's Chesapeake Rectangle bench. Features modern or contemporary picnic table styling, these sturdy x benches are easy to build and stylish.

Collections

Ana's Adirondack Collection

Dimensions

Please note that the length of this bench before purchasing cushions - it differs from Ashley's bench to fit under Vanessa's picnic table

Preparation

Shopping List

3 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
2 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
2 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
1 - 2x6 @ 8 feet long

Common Materials

2 1/2 inch screws

1 1/4 inch finish nails

Elmer's Wood Glue

Elmer's Wood Filler

120 grit sandpaper

primer

wood conditioner

paint

paint brush

Cut List

6 - 1x3 @ 19 1/4" with both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends parallel to each other
6 - 1x3 @ 9 1/4" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends NOT parallel to each other
6 - 1x3 @ 9 7/8" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends NOT parallel to each other
6 - 2x2 @ 12 3/8" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, ends NOT parallel to each other
2 - 2x4 @ 64"
1 - 2x6 @ 64"

Tools

General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

Use the smaller leg pieces to guide you here . . . attach the two longer leg pieces with 1 1/4" fasteners and wood glue.

Step 2

Fill in the spaces with the smaller leg pieces, using 1 1/4" fasteners and wood glue.

Step 3

Attach top blocks with 2 1/2" screws and wood glue.

Step 4

Attach the legs to the tabletop boards with 2 1/2" screws and wood glue.

Step 5

Finishing Instructions

Preparation Instructions

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Project Type

Bench