Easy to build adirondack chair. We made the base stronger with all 2x4 framing. This Adirondack chair is a reader favorite and has been built thousands of times.
We also have a modern version here.
This plan includes a footstool. You can also build a matching coffee table and a matching side table. Check out all our outdoor furniture plans here.

Preparation
- 3 – 2×4 @ 8 feet long
- 1 – 2×2 @ 6 feet long
- 4 – 1×4 @ 8 feet long
- (30) 2 1/2” self tapping wood screws
- (60) 2” self tapping wood screws
- (20) 1 1/4” wood screws
- exterior appropriate wood glue
2 - 2x4 @ 20 3/4” long with BOTH ends cut PARALLEL at 15 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement (back legs)
2 - 2x4 @ 20” (front legs)
2 - 2x2 @ 26 1/2” long, longest point measurement, ONE end cut at 15 degrees off square (arm support)
2 - 2x4 @ 31 7/8” long, ONE end cut at 35 degrees off square to longest point, OTHER END cut at 20 degrees off square to shortest point - see step 1 (stringers)
2 - 2x4 @ 22 1/2” (front apron and back support)
5 - 1x4 @ 22 1/2” (seat slats)
5 - 1x4 @ 36” (back slats)
1 - 1x4 @ 19 1/2” (back top support)
1 - 2x4 @ 19 1/2” (back base support)
2 - 1x4 @ 27” (arm rests)
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 11
Optional Adirondack Footstool Plans
Adding a footstool to your adirondack chair will increase the comfort! We've included the plans below that match this adirondack plan.
FOOTSTOOL SHOPPING LIST
1 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long or stud length
1 - 1x4 @ 12 feet long
2” and 2 1/2” exterior screws
FOOTSTOOL CUT LIST
2 - 2x4 @ 23 1/2” long with both ends cut at 30 degrees off square, parallel to each other, long point to short point measurement (stringers)
5 - 1x4 @ 22 1/2” (top boards)
2 - 2x4 @ 13 3/4” long with one end cut at 30 degrees off square, longest point measurement (legs)
Step 12
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
cbizzle
Sat, 06/06/2020 - 12:40
Did you have figure this out…
Did you have figure this out? I'm in the middle of this cut right now and the measurements just don't make sense.
In reply to Confusied 2 in cut 20 degree side by mrpaul32@yahoo.com
commodon
Sat, 06/27/2020 - 14:07
Step One - start with 33" in length
Without knowing the overall length of the 2x4 I found step one a bit confusing, but I figured out if I start with a 33" 2x4, then cut the 35 degree angle, then measure 31 7/8 then cut the 20 degree angle, it became easy to cut the 2" at a right angle. I've since built four chairs using this method.
DMAC in TX
Sat, 01/06/2018 - 17:57
Wine- A-dironack Plan
Thanks for sharing the pdf plans. I cannot upload any pics (its asking for an URL/link), but hope you don't mind I made some modifications to your easy to make and comfortable Adirondack design. Changes:
1. Arm rests are now 1x8. Added holes and slot to hold wine glasses (2) front and (2) back
2. Added a bottle shelf left side with metal band
3. Customized the paint for neighbor who is a huge Oklahoma University fan (Red with OU decals)
Twk812001
Tue, 01/09/2018 - 10:33
Can't access plans
Bought all materials but can't access plans to build
Twk812001
Tue, 01/09/2018 - 10:35
Can't access plans
Bought all materials but can't access plans to build
In reply to Can't access plans by Twk812001
Ana White
Sat, 01/13/2018 - 18:00
http://www.ana-white.com
http://www.ana-white.com/sites/default/files/Ana%20White%20-%202x4%20Ad…
randy4par
Thu, 03/01/2018 - 11:34
Adirondack made from Wine Barrel
Does any have Plans?
jonnystokes
Mon, 06/17/2019 - 10:03
How to protect from weather
I made a set of this. I would like to know the best way to protect them as I made them from untreated 2x4's.
Hallqu99
Tue, 08/20/2019 - 08:02
Your link doesn't work. I…
Your link doesn't work. I was going to show you another chair that your plans could easily be modified into but I can't link the photo.
jckarp3
Fri, 03/20/2020 - 13:07
Great plan! I made two of…
Great plan! I made two of these with slight modifications. I used 2x4s instead of 1x4s, where called for. I also used 1x6 fence posts for the back rest, seat (cut to 1x4) and arm rests, so it's pretty solid and heavy which is good considering the high winds we get in Colorado. I was a little confused in determining the actual length of the pieces in Step 1 but eventually started with a 33" piece which gave me room to make those angled cuts. Btw, after I made my first one my wife said, "That's great! I want five more." :-)