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
AndyH
Wed, 06/03/2015 - 05:01
Looks great
Looks great Ana might have to build this :-)
Jose Juan
Wed, 06/03/2015 - 20:35
Medidas del proyecto...
Hola Ana, hey tienes las medidas de este proyecto?... Espero que si ;)!
Saludos desde el Golfo de Mexico =)!
Michelle-Chaos…
Mon, 06/15/2015 - 12:09
Cushion Option
I keep looking at this and thinking how awesome it would be to have an affordable way to add seat cushions. I don't think the dimensions are exactly right, but it occurred to me that it is close enough to adapt to the size of a baby crib mattress. The benefit to that would be that most baby crib mattress come with a plastic or water repellant cover which would be lovely for patio use. I may try to adapt these plans to fit a crib mattress and report on the results.
In reply to Cushion Option by Michelle-Chaos…
Savannahsdad2016
Sun, 04/05/2020 - 16:51
Crib mattress
I tried the crib mattress it is too small
jamesbrown0304
Wed, 06/24/2020 - 04:14
Cot mattresses come in all…
Cot mattresses come in all sorts of different sizes, i've used one thats 140 x 70 x 10cm and modified the dimensions of the build to fit
jamesbrown0304
Wed, 06/24/2020 - 04:15
Yeah it's a great idea i've…
Yeah it's a great idea i've used 2 cot mattresses 140x70x10cm and modified the dimensions of the build to match
SuPrPhAtS
Wed, 03/09/2016 - 12:37
Instructions Missing :(
Sad day!
Ana White Admin
Wed, 03/09/2016 - 14:10
Plans
Sorry about that, they're over at Ryobi. https://www.ryobitools.com/nation/projects/4499
ZenithWoodWorking
Sat, 08/20/2016 - 18:13
Great Job!
I made on but changed it up just a little, but the basic plans didn't change much. I'll post on the brag wall.
Mikebogg
Sun, 02/25/2018 - 18:35
Downloaded Plans
Hi everyone! I know this is an old thread but the Ryobi pages arent working and I would love to get my hands on the plans and cut list for this project!! Anyone have any of these downloaded which you wouldnt mind sharing? Let me know!! Thanks!
terribilis19
Sun, 02/25/2018 - 19:37
plans missing
same!
thanks!
DovetailsandSash
Wed, 02/19/2020 - 15:27
Where is the 28 1/2” Piece?
Is the cut list suppose to have the one 2x4 @ 28 1/2” for the top of the single arm rest? I see it in the plans but not the cut list so I’m wondering if the material list is accurate? Thank you.
wolsen1031
Fri, 10/09/2020 - 09:53
I just had this issue... I…
I just had this issue... I now have an extra 25 1/2 and am short a 28 1/2" board..
MikeyMel
Sun, 04/12/2020 - 11:32
Love the sofa!
Great looking sofa, made one for my back deck <3
I noticed there is a 28 1/2" piece needed for the arm, but the cut list does not have this length listed, just a heads up!
amber.c.hammock
Wed, 04/22/2020 - 16:26
Cushions
I’m so curious where you got your cushions? I’m having a hard time finding the correct sizes
KCinKansas
Wed, 05/13/2020 - 18:47
I'm in the process of…
I'm in the process of getting all my supplies and plan on getting my cushions at this site: https://www.thefoamfactory.com/opencellfoam/HD36-R.html
and covering with an outdoor fabric
ethans
Sun, 04/26/2020 - 09:31
CUT LIST ADDITION
NOTE: be sure to cut a 28.5” board for the arm. It is not currently listed in the cut list.
DaveO
Mon, 04/27/2020 - 07:56
Awesome plans.
I completed one side this pas weekend. Super simple and all worked well. You only missed one item on the cut list and that’s the 28.5” cut for the arm rest. I can’t wait to finish it up this weekend.
ackerman521
Fri, 05/29/2020 - 08:34
Is there a way to modify…
Is there a way to modify this plan to match the Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s?
COSparky
Mon, 06/29/2020 - 09:12
Step 1 Dimensions off
Aside from the missing 28.5" piece from the cut list, I'm surprised no one has mentioned the dimensions in Step 1 are off by one inch. 22" + 20.5" + 22" + 1.75" + 1.75" = 68". The distance between the inside of the boards is 67". So I went with 22" from the outside boards and hoping it works out okay.
georgelza
Fri, 09/04/2020 - 02:00
Design program
Can I ask, what program you use to do these diagrams, I'd like to modify the design a bit to fit my requirements, Love the diagrams etc.
G
redmonsurf
Mon, 09/21/2020 - 19:35
Most likely SketchUp for…
Most likely SketchUp for wood workers.
wolsen1031
Fri, 10/09/2020 - 09:52
Incorrect Cut list
I really wish you listed the 28 1/2 board in your cut list.... I now have an extra 25 1/2 and am short a 28 1/2 cut....
twinmom
Sun, 11/15/2020 - 18:15
Would this be any more…
Would this be any more sturdy with pocket holes? Or same regardless. I’m new to this and haven’t used my kreg jig yet so not sure what the difference is. Also would it be good to add a support in the middle or no need? Thanks for all the amazing plans! I made the mud kitchen (second project ever) over the weekend and you make it so easy to follow! I’m addicted now!
angace44
Tue, 11/24/2020 - 11:10
Self Tapping Deck Screws
Cant find self-tapping exterior deck screws but says wood to metal, not wood to wood.
Anyone have a link to these type of screws needed?
angace44
Tue, 11/24/2020 - 11:15
Cant find self-tapping…
Cant find self-tapping exterior deck screws, the ones i did find say wood to metal, not wood to wood.
David Polston
Thu, 12/24/2020 - 05:49
Missing materials list parts
Ana, My daughter loves your site and to date, I have built 3 sets of your plans. I am by trade a professional carpenter and I will please ask you to recheck your drawings materials and cut list. I have had to develop my own plans because yours do not include everything or the cut list to materials bought are insufficient or wasteful.
In this plan you ask to buy 5- 12' and 4- 8' 2x4's. This did not account for the one board that is critical of 28.5" long for the chair arm and no mention of it on the cut or material list. I bought 7- 12' and 1- 8' 2x4 and had less waste wood and all of the parts.
Also consider a back for these benches. After the first set of plans I built (patio furniture) I designed and made backs for them as they were terribly uncomfortable.
Just a little constructive criticism.
astewart
Thu, 01/21/2021 - 12:25
OUTDOOR SECTIONAL MODIFICATION QUESTION
I love this outdoor sectional. I would love to build it and put it in our outdoor gazebo. I would need to make it more comfortable because we would sit on it for hours playing games. I have a bad back. Would it be possible to use an old trampoline mat for the bottom seating areas instead of decking and how could that be supported? Also, it would need to be chair height because my husband has bad knees. He's already had one replaced.
mmckinney3421
Sat, 03/06/2021 - 07:21
Cushions
What is the best cushion size for each “couch”?
cli2550
Sat, 04/24/2021 - 14:55
Cedar
I can’t find 2x4 cedar boards anywhere. I can find 1x4 cedar boards. Will that work? Or another kind of wood.
Thanks much!
RMarvin
Mon, 05/03/2021 - 16:35
I really like this sectional…
I really like this sectional. It looks great and is comfortable. My only wish is for a board to keep the seat cushions from sliding back. I might add a 2x4 toward the bottom/back to keep them in place. Otherwise, this was fun to make and easy with the plans. The hubby wanted me to use recycled 4x4's so I changed up the arms a bit, but they fit with the rest.