Do you need a bench with maximum storage? A wood chest or trunk can provide tons of storage and act as occasional seating or even tabletop surface.
Save hundreds of dollars by building your own wood trunk or chest. This is a free project plan with step by step diagrams, video tutorial, shopping and cut lists - everything you need to be successful at building your own wood trunk!
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Dimensions
Very large size, suitable for end of bed, entryway, dining banquette
Preparation
Shopping List
- 13 - 1x6 @ 5 feet long (can also buy 10 foot 1x6 and cut in half)
- 1 - 1x8 @ 5 feet long
- 3 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
- 100 - 1-1/4" pocket hole screws
- 1-1/4" brad nails
- wood glue
- piano hinge or 3" butt hinges (three)
- toy box lid supports
Cut List
- 3 - 1x6 @ 58-1/2" - bottom
- 6 - 1x6 @ about 16-1/2" - measure and cut to fit - sides
- 8 - 1x6 @ 60" - front/back/top
- 2 - 2x2 @ 58-1/2" - bottom frame
- 2 - 2x2 @ about 15" - measure and cut to fit - bottom frame sides
- 3 - 2x2 @ about 14" - measure and cut to fit - under lid supports
General Instructions
For long term durability and more professional results, I recommend using a pocket hole joinery system for wood joints. Here is a video with tips for using a pocket hole jig:
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 4
Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
I sanded the entire project well with 120 grit sandpaper, working in the direction of the wood grain.
Finish Used
I applied a wood stain in golden oak.
The next day, I whitewashed with a paint and water mixture.
I then sanded lightly with 220 grit sandpaper.
The top applied a light coat of water based polyurethane.
The next day, I whitewashed with a paint and water mixture.
I then sanded lightly with 220 grit sandpaper.
The top applied a light coat of water based polyurethane.
Project Type