Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Four 2x4 inch wooden planks for the legs
Two 1x6 inch wooden planks for the seat
Two 1x4 inch wooden planks for the backrest
Wood screws
Wood sealant
Paint

Choosing Dimensions

The chair dimensions can vary depending on the type of chair you are planning to build. But for a basic, standard outdoor chair, the following dimensions usually offer a comfortable seating option:

Leg height: 18 inches for a standard seat height
Seat width: 20 inches for a comfortable seating area

Adjusting these dimensions can help to customize your chair to specific needs or design preferences.

How to Build an Outdoor Chair

Cutting the Wood

Start by cutting your wood in 2x4s (which are 1.5 inches thick and 3.5 inches wide). You can do this by using a circular saw or miter saw.
It would help if you had them in two sizes: 18 inches for the chair's legs and 20 inches for creating the seat and the back frame.
These sizes make for a standard chair, but feel free to adjust it if you desire a different size.

Square It Up

Make sure all your cuts are precise and the corners form perfect right angles.
Use a carpenter's square for accuracy.
This ensures your chair's base is stable and square.

Assemble the Base

Take the 20-inch pieces horizontally to form the seat frame and attach them to the 18-inch vertical legs using wood screws.
Drill pilot holes in the 2x4s where the screws will go. This will prevent the wood from splitting and makes it easier to insert the screws.
Place the 20-inch 2x4s on the inside edges of the 18-inch legs. Use a power drill to drive the screws through the 20-inch pieces into the ends of the 18-inch legs.
Ensure all screws are tightened and the frame is stable.

Tip

For attaching the 2x4s, use 2.5 to 3-inch wood screws to ensure a strong connection.

Place Seat Planks

Now, with the frame ready, place the 1x6 planks across it to create your seat.
Space them evenly leaving about 0.25 to 0.5 inches between each plank and screw them in place securely.
Drill pilot holes in each plank using a power drill before securing them to avoid splitting.
Make sure each plank is fixed tightly with wood screws, driving them into the frame for comfort and durability.

Fix the Backrest

For the backrest, you can use 1x4 planks.
Attach these planks vertically to the upper part of the chair frame at the back.
You might want to angle these slightly for a more comfortable seating position. A suitable angle of about 10 to 15 degrees would suffice.

Ensure Tightness

Go over all the screws you have used to make sure everything is tightly fixed.
The sturdiness of your chair depends on these connections, so they need to be well-secured to handle light to heavy weight and use.

Smooth It Out

Once assembled, the next step is to sand the entire chair.
This smooths out any rough or sharp edges that are essential for preventing splinters.
Sanding also prepares the surface for finishing.

Seal or Paint

Finally, protect your chair and give it the look you want by applying an outdoor-grade sealant or paint.
This not only beautifies your creation but also shields it from weather elements, ensuring it lasts longer.

Building this DIY outdoor chair adds a custom touch to your space. Following these three easy steps meticulously, you can make not just a chair but also gain woodworking skills for future projects. Whether for a peaceful morning or a lively evening gathering, your handcrafted chair will be a standout feature.

How to Build an Outdoor Chair in 3 Simple Steps