How to Make a Japanese Bench

Japanese benches, similar to other Japanese designs, draw on the idea of simplicity in beauty. Whether for a garden or inside a home, a basic bench adds to the overall design element without detracting from it. This is especially true in Zen gardens or meditative areas. If the mind is not distracted by too much embellishment, it can relax and refocus better. This bench takes one to two days to build, including drying time for the finish.

4-inch by 4-inch lumber, 12 feet long
Measuring tape
Safety glasses
Table saw
18-inch by 2-inch wooden plank, 4 feet long
4-inch wood screws
Drill with screwdriver bits
Wood putty
Putty knife
Primer and paint or stain
Brushes or rollers

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the 4-inch by 4-inch piece of lumber into six equal sections. Each section measures 2 feet in length. These are the legs for your bench.
- 2
  Set up four of the legs in a rectangular pattern. Set the plank on top of the legs. Adjust the legs so that they are flush with each corner of the plank and there is no overhang.
- 3
  Screw the legs into place. Use at least two screws per leg for maximum stability. Measure the distance between the legs on the long edge of the plank. Set the remaining two legs in the middle of this measurement. Ensure that the edge of the leg is flush with the edge of the bench. Screw these into place as well.
- 4
  Cover the screw heads with the wood putty. Using the putty knife, fill the indentation in the wood with the putty. Scrape away any excess putty. Wait for the putty to dry before painting or staining the bench.
- 5
  Prime and paint the bench or stain it, as you prefer. If you do decide to paint the bench, make sure to prime it first. Unprimed wood soaks up paint unevenly, and your finish may end up looking blotchy. Let finish dry before using the bench.

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