Outdoor Bench With Arbor

Shopping List: 

4 - 4x4 posts @ 84" (legs)
4 - 2x4 @ 21" (side supports)
2 - 2x4 @ 91" (bottom seat front/back aprons)
4 - 2x6 @ 91" (top lower rafters)
7 - 2x4 @ 48" (top upper rafters)
4 - 2x4 @ 28" (seat supports)
2 - 2x4 @ 60" (back support framing)
5 - 2x4 @ 15-1/2" (back support framing)
7 - 1x6 (or 2x6) @ 60" (seat boards)
6 - 2x4 @ 33" (side shelves)

NOTE: Recommend exterior screws

2 inch screws

2 1/2 inch screws

2-1/2" Pocket Hole Screws

Tools: 

measuring tape

square

pencil

safety glasses

hearing protection

Kreg Jig

Drill

Circular Saw

Jigsaw

Random Orbital Sander

Countersink Drill Bit

General Instructions: 

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Dimensions: 

Dimensions shown above

Cut List: 

4 - 4 x 4 x 8
12 - 2 x 4 x 8
1 - 2 x 4 x 10
3 - 2 x 6 x 10
5 - 2 x 6 x 8
1 - 4 x 8 lattice panel

Step 1: 

Start by building the two ends by attaching with pocket holes the side pieces to the posts.

Step 2 Instructions: 

Next, attach the front and back seat aprons to the outsides of the posts.

Step 3 Instructions: 

Attach lower rafters to tops of posts.

TIP: Predrill holes and start screws on ground first.

Step 4 Instructions: 

Cut the upper row of rafters and notch and place on top. Screw down.

Step 5 Instructions: 

Add seat framing either with pocket holes or 2-1/2" countersunk screws.

Step 6 Instructions: 

Build back seat framing and attach between posts and top of back seat support.

Step 7 Instructions: 

Place seat boards on top of seat, and to back seat framing.

Step 8 Instructions: 

Add lattice to inside of the sides - you may wish to add additional wood trim supports around the lattice panels.

Step 9 Instructions: 

Finish off ends with boards (perfect spot for a plant!)

Preparation Instructions: 

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth. It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.