How to Make a Bench From a Shelf

Clean the shelf with a damp cloth and allow to air dry. Determine the location in which the four legs will be installed and mark their location using the measuring tape and a pencil. Ensure the marks are evenly spaced in all directions.

Drill out holes in each of the four marks using a drill bit that is 1/8th of an inch smaller than the diameter of the threaded end of your prethreaded table legs. If using nonthreaded table legs, use a drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than your wood screws, and screw all the way through the shelf and a very little bit into the legs.

Screw the bench legs into the shelf using a clockwise twisting motion. If using nonthreaded legs, have an assistant hold the leg and shelf in place, and screw down from the top of the shelf into the legs. Repeat for all four legs.

Check to make sure that the bench is level by placing it upright on the floor and setting the carpenter's level on its top surface. Adjust the legs if necessary by tightening or loosening them, sawing them shorter only as a last resort.

Sand the surface of the bench, including legs. Disassemble if necessary for complete coverage. Wipe clean with the cloth.

Paint the bench the desired color or stain, using straight, even strokes in the same direction. Allow three hours between coats, using as many coats as necessary. Apply a sealant to the final product, using at least three coats, as this will be a high-traffic area and the paint will easily rub off.