Creating a wooden slatted garden chair for your patio is a great DIY project! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Materials:
- Wooden slats: You can use cedar, teak, or pressure-treated pine for outdoor durability.
- Screws or nails: For attaching slats.
- Wood glue: Optional, for extra support.
- Sandpaper: To smooth the wood before assembly.
- Wood finish or paint: To protect the wood from the elements.
- Tools: Saw (if cutting wood to size), drill, measuring tape, screwdriver, clamps (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Design and Measurements
- First, decide on the overall dimensions of the chair. A common design for a patio chair is around 30″ tall, with the seat being 18″ above the ground.
- The backrest is usually about 18-20″ in height, and the seat should be about 18-22″ deep and wide enough for comfort—usually 18-24″ wide.
- Draw a simple design with slats for the backrest and seat.
2. Cutting the Wood
- Cut the wooden slats to your desired length for the seat and backrest. You’ll need slats for both horizontal and vertical sections.
- Seat slats: Cut these to the width of the seat (approximately 18-24″).
- Backrest slats: These are typically a bit longer, depending on your chair’s design.
- You’ll also need to cut the legs and support pieces:
- Legs: Cut 4 pieces for the chair legs (two front and two back). The front legs are usually shorter (around 18″) and the back legs taller (around 30″).
- Support pieces: These will connect the legs at the top and bottom for stability. Cut two horizontal pieces for the front and back of the chair.
3. Assembly of the Frame
- Start by attaching the legs to the horizontal support pieces. Use screws to secure them tightly.
- Front frame: Attach the front legs to the seat support.
- Back frame: Attach the back legs to the back support piece.
- Ensure that the structure is square and level by using a level or square tool.
4. Attaching the Seat
- Lay the seat slats evenly across the seat frame.
- Secure each slat with screws, making sure to leave small gaps between the slats for drainage and to give it that “slatted” look.
5. Building the Backrest
- Attach the backrest slats to the vertical support pieces.
- You can space the slats evenly, or if you prefer a more ergonomic design, make the slats slightly angled back.
- If you want extra stability, you can use wood glue between slats before screwing them in place.
6. Sanding
- Sand all rough edges, corners, and surfaces to prevent splinters.
- Use a finer grit sandpaper for a smoother finish, especially if you plan to stain or paint the chair.
7. Finishing Touches
- Apply a wood finish or outdoor sealant to protect your chair from the elements.
- If you want a more decorative look, you can paint or stain the wood.
- Make sure to coat all surfaces, including between the slats.
8. Final Assembly
- Once all parts are dry and the finish is applied, assemble the backrest onto the seat.
- Ensure all screws are tightened securely, and make any final adjustments.
Optional Additions:
- Cushions: Add outdoor cushions for comfort.
- Armrests: If you want armrests, you can cut additional pieces of wood and attach them to the sides.
- Footrest: For added comfort, you can create a footrest by adding a lower slatted section.
Tips:
- If you are new to woodworking, you might want to use a pre-made chair plan as a template.
- Be sure to check the wood’s weather resistance (like using outdoor-rated wood or treating it with weatherproofing finish).
- Make sure everything is secure and stable for safety.
Would you like some recommendations on specific types of wood or finishes for outdoor use?