I never really know which of my projects will strike a chord with viewers, but I think I have had more people send me versions of my garden bench than any other project.
Heres Will Smiths version. He went with 1x4s instead of 1x3s for the slats. That makes it even easier!

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Jim Sheltons bench. I like the dark color.

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And Bob Stoehrs:

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Sam Rusch built his bench without arms. (The bench, that is, not Sam.) Total cost of lumber: about $10.

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Here is Adrian Thewliss take on my recent planter box. Hes got bell peppers planted in his. Plus, it turns out Adrian is a local boy...friends with my neighbor two doors down.

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Here is a great idea for an outdoor table. Jim Feickert built this using old pallets. Very cool idea.

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Finally, I had to show you this pair of "punisher chairs" from Ron Buchanan. Halloween is right around the corner, you know.

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Mere Minutes

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2x4 outdoor bench

Doing my part to brighten up my front yard and the world.
Inexpensive woodworkingDepending on where you get your lumber, you should be able to build this bench for under $30. It is made using seven 8-foot long 2x4s. You will also need some deck screws and a 3/4" dowel.
I made the seat by lining up the boards on  their sides, which makes this one sturdy bench. I think it also makes it look more bench-like: similar to what you might find on a city sidewalk.
To simplify my assembly, I attached the legs with pocket holes and screws using my Kreg Jig. If you dont have a pocket hole system, you can screw in the leg assembly using long lag screws.
Free Plans

• WWMM outdoor bench plans (PDF)
• SketchUp file
Protecting the woodSince this is an outdoor project, it will need some sort of finish. You can stain it, apply a clear finish, or do what I did and apply a couple coats of latex house paint. I mulled over the various options and decided to make a bold statement with humble 2x4 studs by painting them knock-your-socks-off purple. Whatever you decide, its a good idea to apply the paint or finish as you are building the bench: there are a lot of hard-to-reach places.
Purple paint?I realize there will be a lot of people who will not approve of my color selection or the fact that I painted wood but I am prepared for the onslaught of YouTube comments. If  my goal was to showcase the woods natural beauty, I probably wouldnt have chosen 2x4 studs. We define beauty in our own lives. Amongst all the negativity and competition for blandness, a little color can  go a long way to brightening up the world. At least a little.
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