How do I Build a Basic Backless Bench?

Assemble a seat box on a flat surface by screwing together two 48-inch boards and two 16-inch boards. The 48-inch boards should be on the outside, covering both ends of the 16-inch boards. Always clamp the pieces together in order to drill pilot holes before screwing everything together.

Stand the posts up inside each corner, then place another 16-inch board next to each pair of posts, parallel to the outside 16-inch board. These boards will hold the posts in place and give you additional areas to screw them into. Screw the new boards into the posts and box.

Space out two more 16-inch boards across the inside of the box, to act as supports for the seat. Screw them in place. The four inner boards should be an equal distance apart.

Screw the posts to the outside corners of the box, using two screws on each side.

Set the bench on its legs.

Attach the last two 16-inch boards to the legs, one on either end of the bench, to act as supports. They should be 5 inches above the ground. Use a level to make sure the boards are straight before screwing them in place.

Attach two 48-inch boards to the legs on the front and back, also to act as supports. They should be even with the support boards you just added to the sides.

Attach the last four 48-inch boards to the top. These will be the seat. Space them out evenly, leaving about half an inch between them.

Sand the bench to remove any splinters.

Stain, paint or oil the bench.