Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s

Are you looking for beautiful and sturdy seating for your outdoor space?  Have you considered building your own?  You can save a ton of money and get exactly what you want!  

For about $20 a piece, I built these outdoor chairs!

We love they way they look.  We love the sturdiness.  We love how heavy they are - no one likes to chase outdoor furniture down in the wind.  And we love how easy they are to build!

Building the Modern Outdoor Chairs

These chairs were so simple and easy to build!!!  All just 2x4 and 2x6 lumber, right off the shelf!

Here's how I built it -

I cut all my boards according to the cut list below using a compound miter saw.  You could also use a circular saw and a square, or even have your local home improvement store cut your boards for you.  Good straight end cuts are very important.

Then I attached the legs to the longer 2x6 boards, using 2-3/4” long deck screws.  Notice the spacer in between the slats – it’s a scrap 1x that measures ¾” thick.

Here’s how it will look with both legs.

Then add the top armrest piece, and repeat for two arms (for one chair).

It’s ideal to have two people to assemble, but if you don’t, I used a board threaded between the slats to support my back boards while I attached.  This is the most challenging step of the entire build.

Once the arms are attached to the back and front pieces, two cleats are screwed to the insides of the arms, and seat slats rest on top.  TIP: For added comfort, consider installing the seat at a slight downward angle.

Turned out really well!

Good luck, and if you build, do share pics (you can add a brag post or tag me on instagram @anawhitediy or #anawhite)  – can’t wait to see how your outdoor chairs turn out!

Plans follow, enjoy and share!

Loveseat Version

After many requests, we have created a loveseat plan version for your convenience.

Reader submitted photo by Joshh81

Thank you for submitting brag posts, it is helpful and encouraging!