Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s

Ana white outdoor furniture
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Easy to build, sturdy modern outdoor chairs for deck or patio - free plans step by step plans with diagrams by Ana-White.com.  

We love that these chairs are beautiful from the back and the front!  These chairs looks great with stacks of outdoor pillows.  

This is a free woodworking plan with step by step diagrams, shopping list and cut lists from Ana-White.com

Build the entire collection with all the plans here.

 

 

 

 

UPDATE: After seven years of being outdoors, these chairs still are strong, sturdy, and holding up great!  The finish has done well too, no chipping or peeling paint.  New photos are the same chairs, seven years after they were built.

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.

building the modern outdoor chair

 

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.

arms for the modern outdoor chair

 

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

simple modern outdoor chair assembly

 

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.

seat slats, unfinished simple modern outdoor chair

 

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!

 

simple modern outdoor chair plans

 

 

Matching Plans in this Collection

This plan was is so popular we went on to get plans done for the matching loveseat and sofa!  You can find the entire collection here.

Outdoor Seating Plan Collection – $6

Matching Chair, Loveseat, and exclusive Sofa plans. Includes cutting diagrams, upgraded techniques, and more comfortable backs.

Buy the Collection Now

 

 

Here's Some Tips to Build Better Outdoor Furniture

Want to build better outdoor furniture?  Over the twenty years I've been building, maintaining, and enjoying my own outdoor furniture, I've learned a few tips that can help build longer lasting furniture.  

 5 QUICK Tips for Better Outdoor Furniture

 


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Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s

Dimensions
Outdoor Chair plans
Dimensions shown above

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 4 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 4 - 2x6 @ 8 feet long
  • 2-3/4" self tapping deck screws
  • 25" x 25" seat cushion (if smaller cushion, adjust plans to fit)
  • Exterior Glue

 

Cut List

CUT LIST PER ONE CHAIR

DESIGNED TO FIT 25" x 25" CUSHION

  • 4 - 2x4 @ 22-1/4" - Legs
  • 6 - 2x6 @ 28-1/2" - Side Slats
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 31-1/2" - Arm Rests
  • 4 - 2x6 @ 25" - Front and Back Slats
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 25" - Front Top Slat and Back Top
  • 2 - 2x2 @ 25-1/2" - Inside Cleat
  • 5 - 2x4 @ 25" - Seat Slats (can get away with just 4)
Cutting Instructions

This chair was designed to fit a 25" x 25" seat cushion.  If different sized cushions are used, adjust plans accordingly.

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Use 2- 2-3/4" or longer screws and exterior wood glue to attach legs to the longer 2x6 boards, with 3/4" spacing in between.  I used two screws per joint.

Step 2

Attach top with glue and 2-3/4" screws.

Step 3

Attach front and back slats to arms to create the frame of the chair.

Step 4

Attach back top piece with screws and glue.

Step 5

Step 6

Lay seat slats on cleats and screw down.

Finishing Instructions
Finish Used
I used BEHR premium outdoor finish

Comments

ozaret

Wed, 07/12/2017 - 11:27

I love this plan.  Do you have a recommendation for where to find the cushion?

kthomas498

Tue, 02/20/2018 - 10:34

You can find them at home Depot or right now you can get them on the Ikea website.. They are white.

Kimberly

kthomas498

Tue, 02/20/2018 - 11:00

You can find them at home Depot or right now you can get them on the Ikea website.. They are white.

Kimberly

upbubba

Thu, 07/13/2017 - 20:04

Please tell us where you found the cushions. Everyone I see are the folded type that won't work at all. 

 

rcm296

Mon, 07/17/2017 - 21:16

Hi Ana, Love you projects. What color is that stain on the outdoor modern chair?

Crazzed_1

Sat, 09/16/2017 - 07:23

I find that screws don't hold well when out into the end grain. I drilled and installed 1" dowel into those areas and then sanded flush once screwed. Gives the screw a much better bite as it is grabbing a cross grain. Great plans!!

juge

Mon, 01/08/2018 - 16:28

Excuse me, I'm from another country, and I do not understand well the measurements used in the tables, could you tell me if the thickness and height are expressed in inches? Thank you

Poyaoan

Sun, 01/28/2018 - 10:07

Hi Ana,

Is the shopping list is for two chairs? Another question is can I just use a regular lumber or should I use treated lumber as we have snow every winter? 

Thank you and have a great day.

frankb03

Sat, 07/07/2018 - 14:47

Where can one find four 2x6 and four 2X4 for $20? I can't even get four 2x6 for $20

H_Rhea

Sat, 05/04/2019 - 09:49

I am planning on making these for my patio and wanted to ask you something. 

1. Based on my measurements the shopping list is only for one chair. It doesn't state about how many screws are needed per chair. I have only had luck finding a huge box of the 1/4 in. x 2-3/4 in. Steel Self-Tapping Timber Screws in a 600 count pail. Clearly, I do not need that many, so about how many do you think will be used PER chair?

2. Do you recommend just using an exterior wood glue or specifically what type do you feel is best?

3. Did you use cedar, pine, or redwood treated lumber? 

4. I am also interested in the plan for the small table in the photo.

Thanks for your help! Love projects and saving money!

 

 

mross932

Sun, 07/07/2019 - 09:36

I made these this week, just came back from buying the cushions and the back of the chair is way way too low to support the back of the cushions. I thouggt the pictures looked that way too but i hadnt seen anyone comment on it being an issue... is anyone else  dealing with this? Just spent so much time and money on these and they might be a waste :( 

Bryan G Price

Tue, 02/25/2020 - 05:33

Hello Ana,

First I want to say that I am so glad to have stumbled onto your site.  You've done an amazing job.

Also, I really like the detail of your plans. This project in particular is amazing.  I think I'll be building a number of these for the backyard firepit this summer.

Just lovely!

Sincerely,

Bryan 

amayer15

Sun, 03/29/2020 - 08:00

I made a couple of these chairs, but think I may have made a mistake of using pressure treated lumber (I bought PT bc of someone's suggestion since these will be outdoors) based on some reading I did after the fact.  For future outdoor furniture projects, what's the best type of wood to buy?  Thanks!

P.S.  The chairs did turn out great and we love them!  Very sturdy and comfortable.

Ruthiep

Thu, 04/02/2020 - 12:03

Hi Ana,

Is there a way or a plan to use Kreg pocket holes so the exterior screws don't show?

Ruthie

msuvdawg

Tue, 05/05/2020 - 10:38

Anyone know about how much these weigh? I was going to use them in the yard by a firepit, but didn't want anything too heavy as they have to be mowed under periodically.

Sam_A

Thu, 05/28/2020 - 00:19

As long as you’re measuring correctly and have your angles set correctly, you’ll be totally fine cutting with your mitre saw. If anything, it will probably be more accurate.

Sam_A

Wed, 05/27/2020 - 06:44

I’m so sorry if this is a stupid question! I’m in the UK so inches are like a foreign language to me (I love your plans Ana & have created a few pieces - just takes me longer as I always need to convert to cm & mm lol) Could I please check whether the shopping list is for 1 chair or for both?

Also, have any of you ever used a semi-transparent White stain that is suitable for sealing/protecting wood for outdoor use? I’d love an almost white washed look!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!