How to Make a Bench for a Dining Table

Having a dining table bench is a great addition for family seating. People can slide together to make extra seating when there is company, and a bench does not take up too much room when it is placed against a wall. If you are a little handy with a saw and an electric drill, you can put one together in a weekend afternoon.

4 18-inch sections of 4-by-4s
4 12-inch sections of 2-by-4s
3 6-foot sections of 2-by-4s
4 10-inch sections of 2-by-4s
2 6-foot planks of high-quality 1-by-6s
Wood screws
Electric drill
Wood glue (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Assemble the frame by laying it out on your work area for visual planning. Place the two shorter sections of 2-by-4s on each of the outer ends. Align the two long sections on either side, and add the other long section to the back.
- 2
  Screw a side long section to the end of a 4-by-4 piece using the wood screws after predrilling the holes. Make sure it overhangs on the outside end by the width of a 2-by-4. Do the same thing to the other end. Finish the side by screwing on the other long section about 6 inches from the first in the same manner of overlapping the 4-by-4. Use two wood screws on each intersection side, angled from each other.
  Repeat for the other side.
- 3
  Screw the end sections into the 4-by-4s without any overlap, bringing the sides together using the wood screws in predrilled holes.
- 4
  Insert the seat supports 12 inches apart and screw in from the sides, keeping the top flush.
- 5
  Lay the planks on top of the frame and screw it into place, countersinking the screws in predrilled holes. Use a little wood putty to fill the holes.
- 6
  Sand the bench thoroughly until it is smooth. Wipe it down with a dust rag and stain if desired. Cover with a polyurethane finish and allow drying for at least 24 hours.

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