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
mamma_joy
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 01:09
Cute and could be helpful for
Cute and could be helpful for lots of outdoor uses!
whitney_smith
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 05:20
I love it! I could make a
I love it! It could make a great grilling bar on my deck!
And I LOVE the way new posts are laid out!!! So simple to read!
ACraftyCauldron
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 05:30
You are SO reading my mind!
I was just looking yesterday for plans for a cute potting bench. This is PERFECTO - and BEAUTIFUL. Thank you SO much!!!
thundermomma
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 07:38
I see it in my future
I will definetly be adding this to my list. I see it with bin attached to the side to hold small gardening tools and gloves, or a shelf off of one side with notches for holding tools. Great plan!!
natsmom
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 07:51
You had me at bar
I can definitely see this holding an ice chest and some snacks and cups out by the pool! Now I have to decide whether to build this or Nat's loft bed next. Decisions, decisions! :)
ferbit
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 08:18
You read my mind!!!!!
Yay!!! A potting bench is my next project, so I've been hoping you'd post plans for one! Woo hoo! Thank you Ana!
DawnJoy (not verified)
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 09:20
Love the new format
This is awesome. So, so easy to follow. I really have no more excuses for not digging in and building. That's a YAY!!
kindlekat
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 11:35
THANKS!
I remember requesting these plans over on the old forum. What an absolute delight to see them posted now!! THANK YOU ANA for what I'm sure will be a fantastic project! I look forward to building it, as well as modifying it to include an outdoor sink. See, THESE are the plans I knew could exist, not these complicated, difficult-to-read plans you see all over the rest of the internet.
Yay spring!
Ana White
Thu, 03/10/2011 - 17:56
Thanks Everyone!
I know this is such a simple humble plan, but wanted to get it up before the season is over! Please, I can't wait to see brag photos! I have intentions to create a longer potting station which will become a bar/bbq area in the summer but the way Alaska seasons go, it'll be too late for some of you!
In reply to Thanks Everyone! by Ana White
ferbit
Fri, 03/11/2011 - 17:41
hmmmm....
Oooooooooooooh! I may hold off on building this then! :) We're knee-deep in the middle of a kitchen remodel (hubby and I are ripping out cabinets as we speak) at the moment so I wasn't going to build this potting bench for about a month. Any idea when your "longer" potting station will be available? :) :) :)
Tsu Dho Nimh
Thu, 03/24/2011 - 09:43
Summer? Which week?
but the way Alaska seasons go, it'll be too late for some of you!
What week have they scheduled summer for? I forget if it's the second or third week of July.
Love the bench, and will be making one of cedar for my BBQ area.
Emma (not verified)
Thu, 03/24/2011 - 05:27
Window Pane Potting Bench
Hi Ana, I am in love with your site - and very excited to start projects.
I have an old window pane (white shabby chic) 3 foot by 2 foot and would love to use it as the back-plate of the potting bench. Do you think the design of the potting bench above could work to accommodate this adjustment.
I got the idea from the pottery barn magazine - http://www.potterybarn.com/products/potting-shed-bar/popup/more-views.h…
This will be my first project - so not sure if I am being too adventurous.
Tsu Dho Nimh
Thu, 03/24/2011 - 07:58
See Step 5
Where the boards are attached to the back, in step 5, replace the top two boards with your window.
Make the bench narrower, if necessary, so your window is wide enough to cover the back.
Cidzz (not verified)
Thu, 08/30/2012 - 22:01
did you ever get to use the window pane in this plan
Hi, I really liked the pottery barn potting bench link that you had shared and also liked your idea of incorporating an old window pane in this potting bench plan. Can you please share pictures if you have implemented your idea.
Thanks
shaunfitz13
Tue, 04/19/2011 - 10:53
(No subject)
Crooked Carpenter (not verified)
Tue, 06/07/2011 - 10:26
Missing from cut list
Hi,
I just started this project today and noticed that the 2 - 1x6 @ 6 1/4" top shelf side supports are missing from the cut list. No big deal, but thought you'd want to add them for completeness.
Crooked Carpenter (not verified)
Tue, 06/07/2011 - 10:31
Missing from cut list
Hi,
I just started this project today and noticed that the 2 - 1x6 @ 6 1/4" top shelf side supports are missing from the cut list. No big deal, but thought you'd want to add them for completeness.
[apologies for the dup - typo in original email address]
LAUGHINGSHARK (not verified)
Sat, 07/09/2011 - 08:42
Thanks
I attempted this project (my first wood project :) and it turned out great. Although I measured funny in some places and the skill saw did not seem to cut straight (not my fault right? :)it turned out great. All the pieces were a little off but they were off to together so it all fit perfectly. Couple of things I noted. Because I wanted a simple bench I did not use the wood glue, wood filler, primer, paint, or sand paper. And for newbies wanting to know you use way more 2 1/2 screws than 2. My mistake was in buying equal amounts of them. I love the bench and it's perfect. Thank You.
Quintin79
Wed, 08/22/2012 - 18:36
Beautifully simple
Love the bench. It's beautifully simple. I'm going to make it for my mother in law. But have th idea of making supports under the table top for a small plastic bin to silde in like a drawer to catch all the dirt thats spilled.
Klschultz
Sun, 03/04/2018 - 14:40
Top shelf supports?
The top shelf supports of the potting shelf are not listed on the cutting list. Can anyone provide some direction??