This DIY small wooden bench has a modern, minimalist, multi-functional design that is perfect for any room! Customize the length of the seat and build to fit your space. Scroll down for the tutorial and, as always, FREE PLANS!

Benches are my favorite to build. They are so versatile. I’m pretty sure I’ve built a bench for every room in our house. This simple design is perfect for beginner woodworkers (like you and I!).

Even greater is the fact takes it only takes a few inexpensive boards, so if you mess up and have to start over, not much is lost but a few dollars and some wood scraps. (That’s not gonna happen, though!)

Make sure you sign up for my email list of beginner DIY-ers, so you can grab the free printable plans and put this cutie on your to-build list!

DIY Small Wooden Bench

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DIY Small Wooden Bench-Tutorial

Don’t forget- Always follow safety precautions when using power tools. Read the entire tutorial and go over the plans before you attempt the project. Use wood glue on all joints. Have fun!

Grab the FREE printable plans now!

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Step 1

Make cuts and drill pocket holes. The graphic below shows all the cuts you need, except for the plywood seat (see cut list at the top of this post). I used 2×3’s for the frame because, if you ask me, 2×3 boards are the neglected ugly-duckling board of the Stud family. They’re small, yet sturdy. If you don’t want bulk, but want plenty of strength, 2x3s are your friends.

Using  a Kreg Jig  drill pocket holes on each end on the 11″ pieces. Notice that the 24″ pieces are beveled at 45 degrees on one end, and the 14 3/8″ pieces are beveled on both. These angles are optional. You can always leave the ends straight. I’m not the greatest at cutting angles, but I did OK on this bench. I bet you can do it, too!

If you’re new to angles cuts and are ready to tackle them with this project, be sure to see  this post.

Step 2:

Build the Frame. The frame goes together nicely with pocket screws. This right angle clamp makes life a lot easier. It’s like having a third hand!

Once your pocket screws are in, you will end up with 2 U pieces. Be sure the bevels face each other and pocket holes face the floor.

Coming along nicely!

I recommend you leave the top piece (the one beveled on both ends) until the end for a more precise fit. I attached the top piece with a Nail Gun.

You will end up with two frames like the picture below once you’re finished attaching the boards.

Step 3

Attach the crosspiece. I got a little ahead of myself and didn’t take a picture without the seat. The crosspiece will join the two frames together and will create support for the seat. You can adjust the length of this board if you want a longer bench.

Step 4 

Attach plywood seat. The plywood seat will sit nicely on top of the crosspiece and frame. Again, you can add length to this piece if you want a longer bench. To secure in place, flip the bench over and screw in from the bottom with 2″wood screws.

Now it’s just a matter of sanding and painting to your liking!

I’m in love with the clean, modern, minimalist look! Do you have a place for this bench? I can feel your wheels turning!

Be sure and pin this project so you don’t forget it!

If you’re a beginner woodworker or are considering exploring the world of power tools, be sure and join my email list. All of my projects are beginner-friendly! Are you ready to go from crafter to woodworker?

I can’t help but explain things in detail, with step-by-step instructions. I’m a teacher after all! If you like my style, we’re meant to be friends 🙂

If you have questions, or just want to say HI, be sure to leave a comment!

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