Modern Cedar Outdoor Storage Bench

outdoor storage bench
Difficulty
Beginner Projects
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Build your own outdoor storage bench for about $40!  This is an easy to build project plans created by Ana-White.com

 

 

Do you need some outdoor storage that looks nice and doubles as seating?  For about $40 you can build this cedar outdoor storage bench!

outdoor storage bench

With it's clean, modern design, it looks great in any outdoor space.  It's also a great spot for occasional seating.

outdoor storage bench

And there's a good amount of storage inside for hiding everything from packages to boots and shoes, or sporting equipment and toys.

This is a very easy to build project using inexpensive materials and basic tools.

How to Build Video Tutorial

Please take a second to watch the quick video tutorial of this build.

 

Outdoor Storage Bench Plans

The plans for this outdoor storage bench are below.  Thanks so much for using our plans, please post a photo when you are done!

 

 

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Modern Cedar Outdoor Storage Bench

Dimensions
outdoor storage bench dimensions
Dimensions shown in diagram

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 7 - cedar fence pickets 5-1/2" wide x 72" long, not dogeared (can also use 1x6 boards)
  • 1 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - Set of hinges, suitable for exterior use
  • 8 - 2-1/2" long exterior self tapping screws (recommend star bit) I used these
  • 80 - 1-1/4" long exterior self tapping screws (recommend star bit) I used these

NOTE: Can substitute the 1-1/4" long screws for staples or brad nails in matching lengths

Cut List
  • 6 - 2x4 @ 15-3/4" - Frame boards
  • 9 - 5-1/2" wide cedar fence pickets or 1x6 boards @ 35-3/4" - Front and Back Paneling
  • 10 - 5-1/2" wide cedar fence pickets or 1x6 boards @ 15-3/4" - End Paneling and Floor Slats
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 34-3/4" (may need to measure and cut to fit) - Cleats
  • 2 - 1x3 @ 15-1/2" - Lid supports
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 12-3/4" - Floor slats

 

Cutting Instructions

Cut the longest boards first from the cedar fence pickets

Tools
Tape Measure
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Drill
Jigsaw
Miter Saw
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Start by building the structural side frames for the outdoor storage bench.

Attach 2x4s together with the longer screws, two per joint, build two identical.

Step 2

Now add the cedar fence pickets to the outside with the shorter screws, two per end.

Hold the first cedar fence picket up by 3/4".

Step 3

Attach the front and back cedar fence pickets to the frame with the shorter screws, matching the side cedar fence picket placement.

Step 4

Attach 1x2s to the inside with the shorter screws to create cleats for the bottom of the outdoor storage bench.

Step 5

Place the slats on the cleats and screw or nail (or staple) down.  Nail or staple length is 1-1/4".

Step 6

Lay the 1x3 board top support boards down on top of the 2x4s, held to the back but with a small gap on the front.  DO NOT ATTACH to the box, this is part of the hinged lid.

Step 7

Lay the lid boards on top of the 1x3 lid supports and attach the lid boards to the 1x3 with either screws, staples or nails.

Attach the lid to the back with small hinges.

Cut out the front access for lifting the lid.

Comments

mrozinoz

Mon, 07/20/2020 - 15:26

Great plans as always. Would it be too much hassle to post metric plans too? Too difficult for us to follow in metric world. : (

LJMEDIA

Tue, 07/28/2020 - 23:13

Great photos ! I noticed companies are now going to buy instagram followers and likes to get a bigger audience. I have tried it and seems to work. Ill be coming back to check out more of your blogs.

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!