Outdoor Chair
Seating
Drafting drawing
Units: feet & inches · Not to scaleOutdoor Chair — overall 2' W × 2' 6" D × 2' 10" H
Tools needed
- •Circular saw
- •Drill/driver
- •Sander
- •Clamps
- •1/8" twist bit for pilot holes
- •Countersink bit
Materials needed
- •(6) 2x4x8 cedar or pressure-treated
- •Exterior 2½" screws
- •Exterior wood glue
- •Outdoor finish
- •Wood glue (Titebond II indoor / III outdoor)
- •Construction-grade wood screws
Optional tools & hand-tool alternatives
- •Hand saw + miter box (slower but workable)
- •Hand brace + bit set (for off-grid builds)
- •Sanding block with 80/120/220 paper
- •Heavy weights or rope-and-stick (Spanish windlass)
Cut list
| Piece | Qty | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Back legs | 2 | 34" |
| Front legs | 2 | 22" |
| Seat slats | 5 | 24" |
| Back slats | 3 | 24" |
| Side rails | 2 | 20" |
Step-by-step instructions
- Step 1
Step 1. Cut all pieces
Use weather-resistant lumber. Cut per list.
- Step 2
Step 2. Build side frames
Attach side rails between front and back legs. Joinery (Wood glue + screws): Apply a thin even bead of glue on the mating surface, clamp the joint, pre-drill pilot holes (1/8"), then drive screws to pull the joint tight. Wipe glue squeeze-out immediately with a damp rag.
- Step 3
Step 3. Add seat slats
Space evenly with a small gap for drainage.
- Step 4
Step 4. Add back slats
Attach across back legs.
- Step 5
Step 5. Finish
Apply exterior stain or sealer.
Safety notes
- •Wear safety glasses at all times when cutting or sanding.
- •Use hearing protection with power tools.
- •Keep fingers clear of saw blades — use push sticks.
- •Work in a well-ventilated area when finishing.
- •Unplug power tools before changing blades or bits.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- •Skipping measurement double-checks — measure twice, cut once.
- •Forgetting to pre-drill pilot holes, causing wood to split.
- •Over-tightening screws and stripping the wood.
- •Skipping sanding between coats of finish.
Final inspection checklist
- All joints are tight and square.
- No exposed screw heads on visible surfaces.
- All edges sanded smooth (no splinters).
- Finish is evenly applied and fully dry.
- Piece sits flat without wobbling.