How to Build Bar Stools Out of Saddles

Find a log that is about 18 to 20 inches in diameter. Cut a 20-inch long piece of the log using a chainsaw. Set the log on end and cut it down the middle using a chainsaw. You will use only one half to make the stool. Store the log piece in a cool and dry location for one week. This will cause the bark to loosen and make it much lighter.

Peel off any loose bark using your hands. Remove tough bark with a draw knife. This log half will be the top of the stool.

Cut a straight 4-inch diameter sapling stick to measure 36 inches long using a handsaw. This is one leg for the stool. Use this as a guide to cut three more legs.

Turn the log flat side up. Make a 4-inch diameter and 2-inch deep hole in each corner of the log half using a chisel and hammer. Make the insides of the holes as smooth as possible.

Line the inside of one of the holes in the log half with wood glue. Stick one of the legs into the hole with the glue. Allow the glue to dry for several minutes. Repeat with the remaining three legs. Allow the glue to set in for about an hour before handling the stool.

Flip the stool on its legs. Measure the distance across the front legs. Cut four 2-inch diameter sticks according to this measurement. Measure 12 inches from the bottom of the front legs and place one of the 2-inch sticks between the front legs. Nail the stick securely in place. Repeat across the back legs and both sides of the stool.

Plaster the top of the stool with wood glue. Carefully place the saddle on top of the stool. Allow the glue to dry over night.