Modern Park Bench

Difficulty

Intermediate

Build your own modern style park bench. Sturdy 2x4 frame, easy to build design using off the shelf materials and basic tools. Free plans from Ana-White.com

Modern Park Bench Features

Simple to build design
Stylish modern look
Easy to customize to different lengths and back heights
Sturdy 2x4 frame
Ours has held up for 8 years now and we are still using it!

Dimensions

Dimensions shown above

Preparation

Shopping List

6 - 1x6 @ 6 feet long
7 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
60 - 2-1/2" to 3" long exterior self tapping screws (look for the star bit ones)
60 - 1-1/2" to 2" long exterior self tapping screws (look for the star bit ones)

Cut List

2 - 2x4 @ 72"
5 - 2x4 @ 21"
2 - 2x4 @ 31"
4 - 2x4 @ 24"
2 - 2x4 @ 25-1/2"
1 - 2x4 @ 69"
3 - 2x4 @ 18-1/4"
6 - 1x6 @ 72"

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

Wood glue is recommended at all joints.

Build the basic seat frame of the swing first, using the longer screws, two screws per joint.

Step 2

Next, add the legs to the seat frame using the longer screws, three screws per joint.

Step 3

Then add the arms on top of the shorter legs, and then tie into longer back legs, using the longer screws, two screws per joint.

Step 4

Add the shorter stretchers between the bottom legs - this will help keep the legs from splaying out. Use the longer screws, two screws per joint.

Step 5

Attach bottom stretcher between legs, centered, and attach with two screws per end, using the longer screws.

Step 6

Attach backrest supports with the longer screws, two screws per joint.

Step 7

Lay out the seat boards on top of the bench and attach with the shorter screws, two screws per joint.

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.

Help Improve This Plan

We apologize if there was an error in this plan. Please help us out and report any errors here.

Project Type

Bench