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!
Comments
chirp219
Tue, 10/23/2012 - 09:52
great job
you did an awesome job, and love the stain! I myself cant draw a sraight line... i was interested in having someone build this for me, curious if you would be interested in building sofa, 2 chairs, 2 endtables and coffee table? Located in texas.. thanks
chirp219
Tue, 10/23/2012 - 09:52
great job
you did an awesome job, and love the stain! I myself cant draw a sraight line... i was interested in having someone build this for me, curious if you would be interested in building sofa, 2 chairs, 2 endtables and coffee table? Located in texas.. thanks
In reply to Great plans by Jarmahead
herzo1852
Fri, 08/09/2013 - 18:33
I took your advice and stained as I assembled!
Thanks for that - I would have hated staining between all these slats!
RaeRae (not verified)
Sat, 06/16/2012 - 10:56
Can you believe this guy?!
So... I was on eBay looking for some cushions to go along with the Weatherly sofa I'm going to build and found this:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deck-Patio-Yard-Porch-Cushion-Living-Room-Den-S…
Woodchuck2245 (not verified)
Sat, 06/16/2012 - 13:10
He is selling Ana's plans on eBay!!!!!
HE IS USING ANA'S PICTURES AND SELLING HER PLANS FOR THIS FOR $12.50!!!!!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Deck-Patio-Yard-Porch-Cushion-Living-Room-Den-S…
Awnay (not verified)
Sat, 06/16/2012 - 20:15
ACk!
Go to the listing and to the right of the shipping line is a 'report item' url. It doesnt give an exact match to report, but just work your way through it, and post the link to here. =)
Chrisie (not verified)
Sat, 06/16/2012 - 20:51
How horrible!! I just clicked
How horrible!! I just clicked the link and went and reported him!!
hammertime
Sun, 06/17/2012 - 05:59
Reported it too...
I just reported it to ebay too. Hopefully that will be off there soon. How awful.
givehugsprn
Mon, 06/18/2012 - 22:58
EBAY SCAMMER!!!
This same guy is also selling other plans off Ana-White! He sold 5 copies of this plan for $7.00 each. I have sent him an e-mail and am waiting for a response.
Raised Flower Garden Deck Patio Back Yard Plantar Boxes
Neece (not verified)
Tue, 06/19/2012 - 10:04
Ebay Scammer
I physically called Ebay and let them know that the seller was selling items that were not his to sell. I couldn't figure out how to report him otherwise. They were very helpful in taking the information and I hope he is unable to sell through Ebay again.
David L (not verified)
Mon, 07/23/2012 - 22:17
Drawing arch on back support
Having trouble drawing the arch on the top piece of the back support. Anyone have any tips?
patrick1973 (not verified)
Sat, 09/15/2012 - 06:14
which kreg jig works best?
i plan to bui9ld my wife the sofa and chairs and i am not sure which Jig to purchase? either the $40 R3 or the $99 K4.
i know for sure i will build these 3 pieces so wondering which is easiest to use on this furniture. may tackle some other products in the future,, so should i just spring for the $99 K4?
thank you,
Patrick
slyerly
Wed, 09/19/2012 - 08:09
i did it!
http://ana-white.com/2012/09/outdoor-sofa-chair
gary
Wed, 02/20/2013 - 12:57
Outdoor sofa too Futon
I love what you have done with the sofa, but would like to see the necessary mods to turn it into a Futon. Need some seating/sleeping on our house boat and this look would work wonderfully. Is this something that would merit your time?
thanks Gary
stamhow
Thu, 08/08/2013 - 08:17
I would also love to know if
I would also love to know if it can be converted to a futon, queen size. That would be fantastic!
herzo1852
Wed, 04/10/2013 - 10:31
The box cushions link has moved - here is the new one!
http://www.bettsykingston.com/2010/08/box-cushions/
I am using it for my loveseat!
Patteeh Manalo
Thu, 07/11/2013 - 23:17
cheap lumber?
HI Ana I feel so lame for discovering you sooo late! But I was super excited to start building this sofa cus I saw that the lumber would run me around $30. And i even ordered a Kreg Jig on Amazon. But after going through the lumber at Lowe's and Home Depot, they will be running me close to $150 :( Where can I find it cheaper? The lumber stores are way more expensive!
bredemann
Sun, 03/02/2014 - 05:33
Suggestion for attaching side aprons to legs
Just built this bench this weekend! Turned out great. I found the cost of the wood to be $175. I used Poplar for the legs and arm tops. I used a mixture of Top Choice and Select pine for the rest of the sofa. I used the Poplar because it is a harder wood. Also bought a Kreg pocket hole tool. First time to use and REALLY liked it. Was well worth the $40.
Here is one TIP that I'd like to share.
Before attaching anything, I drilled all of the pocket holes in the aprons.
When I went to attach the side aprons to the legs, the 4 right angle joints (back and side, side and front) had the pocket holes at exactly the same height. This meant that tips of the screws were right on top of each other.
Doing it again, I would have offset the pocket holes from each apron so that when the screws went into the legs, they would have not come close to intersecting.
bredemann
Mon, 03/03/2014 - 06:17
Painting Tip
I assembled the entire sofa and then started to prime / paint. Since this is going to be outdoors, I wanted to make sure that I had really good coverage and didn't leave any bare spots.
I had trouble getting paint into the section where the bench is attached to the back rest, due to the angle.
If I were to do this again, I would have painted this tough to reach spot, prior to attaching the back to the bench.
I still haven't figured out how to get paint in this "V" area. I'm going to look into finding an oil based spray primer and paint.
jostj
Wed, 04/29/2015 - 16:40
Wood Type
What type of wood are people using for this sofa? I can't imagine they are using framing lumber??
amiealejandro
Tue, 06/09/2015 - 16:56
I just built this using your plan!
Thank you so much for sharing this, I just finished my very first project following your plan and I am inlove! I used 2x4 for the arms for extra support since I made mine longer and they turned out really pretty! Thank you again Ana!
TomInPort65
Sun, 08/02/2015 - 06:57
Outdoor sofa made in HPDE?
Has anyone tried to construct this design from HPDE (aka Polywood) material? Wondering if there are any changes required to use that material. Thanks!
Newbiebuilder
Thu, 07/07/2016 - 15:04
Plan modification
The simple white outdoor sofa plan is beautiful and would be a great plan to modify into a bi-fold futon. So many of the elements are already there.
deb12
Tue, 05/16/2017 - 17:17
sofa/couch
can't get pdf button to work goes to error and not finding print button
deb12
Tue, 05/16/2017 - 17:17
sofa/couch
can't get pdf button to work goes to error and not finding print button
In reply to sofa/couch by deb12
Ana White
Thu, 05/18/2017 - 15:09
printer friendly
Hope this helps http://www.ana-white.com/print/2546
Caterpillar11
Sat, 09/16/2017 - 07:13
Sectional
Is there a way to make this a 2 piece sectional or would it be awkward
looking since there is a back rest? I really like your other sectional design, but this one looks a little bit more modern and would go with my home better. Is it possible to modify by just making a second one without one side arm, or would it look silly?
thanks so much! Love your site!
In reply to Sectional by Caterpillar11
Ana White
Tue, 09/19/2017 - 18:00
Do a google image search for
Do a google image search for "ana white 2 piece sectional" there are quite
a few options. Hope this helps! Jen
Spirit910
Tue, 03/26/2019 - 16:55
Tables
I love the sofas! Really perfect for the pergola in my backyard. I was wondering if there are plans available for those 30x30 tables? I love how they complete the whole sofa sets. Are they on the Ana White website?
Ana White Admin
Tue, 03/26/2019 - 18:01
Tables
Which tables are you referring to? Do you have a link or photo?
madbugger
Fri, 04/10/2020 - 23:04
Original plans
Really like the Simple White Outdoor sofa, but would love to get the original plans. The updated ones here use 2x4s that will make this much bulkier and heavier than the original. Any chance of getting the original plans for this sofa?
dante1013
Wed, 04/29/2020 - 09:37
Wider Arm Rests
Hi Ana, thanks for the great plans. I'm planning to build two of these this weekend. Would it be possible to replace the end arm rest pieces with 2X6"s instead of 2x4"s. I'm trying to go utilize wider arm rests for setting drinks and such down on it. Thanks!
dark7622
Mon, 06/15/2020 - 07:58
wider arm rests is possible
I built two of these, you can change it but you will have to at least modify the back base. Note I had to shim my bases, I put in a correction that it should be 80" instead of 79.5. But in your case it means the whole thing would be deeper and hence the base of the backer will be different.
Another thought is maybe using a 1x6 instead and screw that on top of the 2x4, or leave the legs 2x4 and just make the arm rest alone 2x6, but I would screw some screws from the top down instead of just the pocket screws, with it being wider without wider support if someone sits on it, it could mess it up.
rozim
Fri, 05/08/2020 - 22:44
Step 3 instructions
Love the design and I'm currently trying to build this piece.
Step 3 says
"Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x6 end aprons. Also drill three 1-1/2" pocket holes along one edge."
And I'm thrown at the very least by "three 1-1/2" pocket holes along one edge" -- wouldn't it be pocket holes on both edges, and if it is along one edge, which one?
The way we're proceeding is doing 1 hole on each side of the narrow dimension (the nominal 2" wide edge) and 2 holes on each of the wider dimension sides, since this wood doesn't seem to be bearing that
much load it's not clear that it needs 3 screws, and anyway the Kreg jig we have just does 2 holes.
thx,
Dave
dark7622
Mon, 06/15/2020 - 07:53
My project
I might have gone overkill, but since the jig I have makes two holes I put 4 holes in every 2x6 where pocket holes were needed. worked fine and was pretty solid
dark7622
Mon, 06/15/2020 - 07:51
More slats for individual cushions
If you use individual cushions (like a set of 3) its ideal to have more slats, at least 4 to 5 more.
pagail118
Thu, 07/30/2020 - 19:03
Straight seat option
Hi !
I am looking to build a sectional sofa, and most I found have straight back which I think is not as much comfortable.
This one seems great, but I think the reclined seat would not work as a sectional.
Do you think it could be adapted easily to have flat seat while keeping the reclined back, so that it can be made a sectional ?
I think of putting the cleats at the same height, like at step 9 put the cleat higher.
What are your thoughts ?
Thank you !
grvitas
Tue, 09/01/2020 - 22:27
Accessories
Where did you buy the cushions?
alexandru.pop
Mon, 02/08/2021 - 13:33
Hello, i have a question ,…
Hello, i have a question , for the pocket hole conection do you use a kreg HD?
Rmwdmw317
Fri, 04/09/2021 - 14:12
converting to sectionaL
I built this couch ew years ago and absolutely love it. I want to somehow convert it into a sectional this year but not exactly sure what would work best. would just taking off one armrest and building a second couch or loveseat work? any help on the corner part would be awesome
Rmwdmw317
Sat, 04/10/2021 - 15:47
where are the plans for the…
where are the plans for the sofa as pictured? I need those
Rmwdmw317
Sat, 04/10/2021 - 17:46
where are the plans for the…
where are the plans for the sofa as pictured? I need those