How to Make a Free Garden Bench
Here is how I made a free bench for my garden.
Everyone needs more seating space outside.
And to make a bench for free is a dream.
It really wasn't that hard and didn't require too many large tools.
I began by using leftover futon wood from the Farmhouse Bench project, plus 2 oak posts I found while walking one night.
If you don't have a big saw, you can get the fence post cut to size at the hardware store.
This one is similar to the last one I made for my dining room but this time it is for the space out by the fire pit.
I started with the futon wood, it was all pretty much already the size I needed for a 6 foot bench.
I added additional slats in between the existing ones
to create the top and the sides, then cut the post legs to 15", a good size for a lower bench.
I changed the color of the raw wood by painting the whole thing with a vinegar and steel wool concoction that I keep fermenting in the garage.
It creates a great old, aged color!
You could also paint your bench with a good outdoor paint.
That's all it really took to create a free garden bench!
And a big thanks to all my neighbors for the side-of-the-road finds, you have no idea what you are throwing out!
Materials:
Futon wood
4x4s
vinegar/steel wool solution
screws
Like this project?
and I will send my latest DIY
project straight to you!
Wonderful creation using what you have on hand. Looks great in the teen area. I really adore the aged look.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Love it, want it!!!
ReplyDeleteOoh, love it! The vinegar/steel wool thing is something I have to try one of these days!
ReplyDeleteLove it! Everything about it - and w/ a couple of cushions & old windows in the background - perfect!
ReplyDeleteI've been using the vinegar and steel wool as well! Your bench turned out SO beautifully!
ReplyDeleteLooks great I love the pillows too!
ReplyDeleteI love your cozy area! I'm wanting to get some gravel hauled in for my yard too.
ReplyDeleteBrenda
lovely, lovely blog! found you via the blog hop xo
ReplyDeleteThat turned out great, love the entire outdoor area. I definitely could spruce up my outdoors a bit for our teens, thanks for the inspiration :)
ReplyDeleteI would love to invite you to join us and link up at our Friday Block Party at Curb Alert! The link is live now and throughout the weekend. Hope to see you there!
http://tamicurbalert.blogspot.com/2012/05/friday-block-party-6-feature-from-party.html
Tami @ Curb Alert!
Wow! If "you ain't somethin'"...amazing and you make your own stain too? What's the recipe for that? How did you learn to build stuff? I want to build things but haven't done anything yet. What a good way to start? Like what was your first building project? It looks so professional and the color is perfect! Very nice job and FREE!!!!! What's not to like about that!?!
ReplyDeletesusan! I LOVE your free garden bench! Every garden needs a great bench!
ReplyDeletegail
So cute!! I think I will be making one of these soon now that my garden area is coming together!! I could use a few indoors as well.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great bench and a lovely gathering spot!
ReplyDeleteI tried the vinegar and steel wool stain over at kayboocreations.blogspot.com and I wanted your colour and got a reddish orange. What did I do wrong?
ReplyDelete