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
whitney_smith
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 11:24
So simple and great and
So simple and great and CHEAP! Will be looking through my pile of wood.
RHgaijin2
Sun, 08/11/2019 - 06:59
Truss style bench
I made two of these benches over a weekend and posted a video of it on youtube at:
https://youtu.be/siTT2jxBsWE
I also have a brag post
RHgaijin2
Tue, 04/07/2020 - 06:48
2x4 Truss Bench X
I made another one and modified the angle braces on it to form an X. I made a youtube video of it here. https://youtu.be/RQriGWLUAIU
luckrish (not verified)
Thu, 04/26/2012 - 12:56
Wonderful!
I can't wait to try these! I was literally just thinking about making some benches for my dining room...and then you post these. FABULOUS!
Michelle Caudle (not verified)
Mon, 05/07/2012 - 18:18
Perfect!
I've been wanting a cute, cheap bench for my front yard and this is PERFECT! And since it's made from 2x4's (my hubby's lumber of choice) ...I can get him to build it while I finish my other building projects!!!
KaraPUK (not verified)
Tue, 05/29/2012 - 08:43
Very, very basic question.
This will be my first ever DIY project so please don't laugh at my basic question. I do not have a Kreg Jig so would be using counter sink screw method but I don't know exactly where these go on the first step? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks from not so sunny Scotland!
BeckySmith
Wed, 06/06/2012 - 06:13
Help attaching cross supports
I built this bench yesterday and I am so thrilled with how it turned out. I'll post pics as soon as I get the finish on it tomorrow. The only thing I struggled with is how to attach the cross supports. It wasn't a problem so countersink the screws through the top stretcher since it is positioned horizontally but I couldn't figure out a good way to attach the cross support to the bottom stretcher. I ended up drilling through the angled part of the support from the top and into the bottom stretcher. This made sort of an unsightly screw in an odd place. I know the plans suggest using a Kreg jig, which I did for the top and legs but I don't really want the big holes created by the jig on the cross pieces since I will be staining the bench. Any suggestions?
zookeeperjay
Thu, 07/05/2012 - 17:12
1x3
I'm so excited about this bench! I saw that I could add a 1x3 for extra support I did not see where I should do that. I need the extra support any suggestions on where it goes?
zookeeperjay
Fri, 07/06/2012 - 09:39
Help please?
Does the extra support for this bench go lengthwise under the bench? I have 5 teens and one almost teen. Need that extra oomph like fish need water. All the pieces are cut and ready to go! Anxiously waiting for reply. Warmly Jay
In reply to Help please? by zookeeperjay
Lady Goats
Fri, 07/06/2012 - 09:59
1x3s
Hi Jay, I'm really not getting where the extra 1x3 would go, either, if it were me, I would build the bench as instructed, then test to see if you need the supports. It looks really sturdy to me, so you may not need the supports (trust me, I have to worry about extremely obese in laws, and I wouldn't think it would need them). If it turns out that you're worried about the structure, then add the 1x3 where it's needed.
zookeeperjay
Fri, 07/06/2012 - 10:23
Thank you LadyGoats. I'm
Thank you LadyGoats. I'm hoping to finish this today. It will be perfect for the front porch. ;o)
Alma (not verified)
Thu, 08/09/2012 - 15:22
Providence Chairs
I'd love to see some chairs to go with this collection. I made the table the other day and it is beautiful. I was hoping to figure out how to make chairs from this bench, but just can't figure out how to attach a back. Anyone else?
spiceylg
Thu, 08/23/2012 - 05:44
Providence bench angles
Hello. Can somebody please clarify, I assume you have to cut a 10 degree angle on both the top and bottom of the legs?
TxDork76
Mon, 04/01/2013 - 14:17
1x3 support and PH screws
Making this for my friends' porch. It's going well but I'm not sure about the placement for the 1x3 support either. The only place I could figure would be under the top, perpendicular to the boards. Not sure though.
I did run into a problem attaching the cross member on the legs (Step 1). I drilled 1.5" pocket holes but the 2.5" screws poked out a bit so I used 2" screws instead.
bullitt453
Mon, 05/20/2013 - 09:05
For those wondering about the 1x3 supports
Take a look at the Restoration Hardware bench that these plans are based on. TxDork76 is correct; the 1x3s go perpendicular to the 2x4 top slats.
http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productI…
I plan to build this bench for my parents this week. Will definitely post the finished product.
eheinze12
Wed, 08/07/2013 - 08:32
pdf
I just wanted to ask if I can get the PDF emailed to me? It is giving me an error and I'd love to work on this asap! I am looking to give my entryway a makover:)
Ana White
Wed, 08/07/2013 - 11:32
Try this for the pdf issue
Here is a temporary solution for the PDF problems
- Go to PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION at the bottom of the plan;
- Copy the URL;
- Go to http://www.web2pdfconvert.com/
- Paste the URL in the window and create a PDF;
- Download the PDF to your computer and give it a proper name;
- And start building…
momofour09
Thu, 09/26/2013 - 12:23
Making larger?
I want to make the 4x4 truss table: http://ana-white.com/2013/09/plans/4x4-truss-beam-table and was wondering if this bench would work. Also if it does, what length would you recommend? Can the 45 degree pieces just be moved down to accomodate the adjusted size?
Thx
Melissa Keplinger
Sun, 07/13/2014 - 11:09
Supports
Did anybody comment on the fact that the 45 degree supports in the plans don't match the images. The images show them providing support for the middle of the table, while the plans are not providing any useful purpose, and actually will get in the way of a person's legs when they are seated.
I attached them as shown in the images because the extra stability of the middle of the table and the benches is absolutely necessary.
The plans should be updated to reflect this.
lisashortell
Tue, 12/13/2016 - 12:32
Warping?
Hello! I love this bench and have built it many times modifying it for different needs or styles.... this build I modified the top to 3 2x6's and noticed my benches starting to wobble. I took it part and my top had warped... I didn't add the cross support.... would that help stop the top from twisting? Or at 2x6's too big for the bench base? Any hep is greatly appreciated. I haven't had this issue before.... ? Thank you!!
cherokeesteve
Thu, 08/06/2020 - 16:32
Greatly appreciate the plans for this bench
Was fairly easy to make for this new to woodworking person. Came out better than expected (due to my inexperience). Stained with a light, natural looking honey pine and love how it turned out.
Bigherd
Wed, 01/13/2021 - 07:54
2X4 Truss Style farmhouse bench.
I made two of these. Both were 48" long and 18" tall. One was 12" deep and the other 15" One bench seat was made up of 4 2x4s while the 15" bench seat was made using three 2x6's. I used my jointer flatten the edge and face of the lumber. then i used my thickness plainer to get the width i needed. I had about $30 in each bench and ended up selling each one for $100. I enjoyed making this bench.
woodworkHER
Wed, 04/28/2021 - 12:41
Awesome!
I loved making this bench, it was my first project following wood plans. I want to make an outdoor sofa, but considering the price of lumber I wanted a cheaper project to try out first. Your plans are wonderful, I only wish there were screw locations included with the plans like others I’ve seen.