Looking to spruce up your entryway with a functional yet chic piece? Building your own entryway bench is a rewarding weekend project that adds style and storage to your home. With a few tools and materials, you can create a custom bench that’s perfect for stashing shoes or tossing keys. Here’s how to make it happen.
What You’ll Need: Grab 2x4s (two 8-foot pieces), a 1x12 board (4 feet long), wood screws (2.5-inch), wood glue, sandpaper, paint or stain, and a cushion or fabric for the seat. You’ll also need a saw, drill, measuring tape, and a screwdriver. Total cost? Around $50-$70, depending on your finishes.
- Step 1: Plan and Cut Sketch a simple design: a rectangular bench about 36 inches long, 18 inches tall, and 12 inches deep. Cut your 2x4s into four 18-inch legs, two 30-inch side supports, and two 36-inch front/back supports. The 1x12 board will be your seat, cut to 36 inches long. Sand all pieces to smooth out rough edges.
- Step 2: Build the Frame Start with the legs. Attach a 30-inch side support to two legs using wood glue and screws, forming a U-shape. Repeat for the other side. Connect the two U-shapes with the 36-inch front and back supports, screwing them into the top of the legs to create a sturdy rectangular frame. Double-check that everything’s level nobody wants a wobbly bench.
- Step 3: Add the Seat Place the 1x12 board on top of the frame. Secure it with wood glue and screws, drilling from the top into the supports below. Make sure the seat is flush with the frame for a clean look. If you want storage underneath, leave it open, or add a lower shelf using another 1x12 cut to size.
- Step 4: Finish It Off Sand the entire bench to remove splinters. Now’s the fun part customize it! Stain it for a rustic vibe (think walnut or oak) or paint it to match your decor (white or navy looks sharp). Seal with polyurethane for durability. For comfort, top it with a foam cushion wrapped in durable fabric like canvas or linen. You can even staple fabric directly to the seat for a sleek, upholstered look.
- Step 5: Place and Enjoy Set your bench in the entryway, add a basket underneath for shoes, or toss some throw pillows on top for extra flair. You’ve just built a piece that’s both practical and stylish.
Conclusion: This project takes about 4-6 hours, perfect for a weekend. No advanced skills needed just patience and a bit of elbow grease. When you’re done, you’ll have a custom entryway bench that’s sure to impress guests and make your space feel like home.
You just need to put your mind into it
