Building a wooden deck chair with a reclining back is a great DIY project. Here’s a basic step-by-step guide:
Materials Needed:
- 1″ x 6″ wood boards (cedar or pine works well)
- 1″ x 2″ wood strips (for slats and frame)
- Wood screws (2″ and 1 1/4″)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Outdoor wood finish or sealant
- Reclining chair mechanism (optional, if you want adjustable back)
- Tools: saw (miter or circular), drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, clamps, wood filler (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wood Pieces
- Cut your wood to the desired sizes. Here’s a typical set of measurements:
- Seat slats: 5 pieces, each 24″ long.
- Back slats: 7 pieces, each 20″ long.
- Leg pieces: 4 pieces, each 18″ long.
- Armrest pieces: 2 pieces, each 22″ long.
- Backrest frame: 2 pieces, 36″ long.
- Seat frame pieces: 2 pieces, 24″ long.
- Support pieces for reclining mechanism: You may want extra pieces for bracing.
2. Build the Seat Frame
- Take the two 24″ pieces and attach them to the 18″ leg pieces using screws and wood glue to form a rectangular base.
- Ensure the legs are attached at an angle (slightly leaning back) for comfort.
- Attach the seat slats to the frame using wood screws. Leave a small gap between each slat to allow water drainage.
3. Build the Backrest Frame
- For the backrest, attach the two 36″ pieces together with screws to form a vertical rectangle. This frame will support the slats.
- Attach the 7 back slats to this frame, leaving similar gaps between each slat.
4. Attach the Reclining Mechanism (Optional)
- If you want the back to recline, you’ll need a reclining mechanism. This could be a simple set of hinges or a more complex adjustable mechanism (like the kind used in lounge chairs).
- For a simple hinge mechanism, attach one side of the backrest frame to the seat frame with two heavy-duty hinges. This allows the backrest to recline.
- Ensure that the reclining angle is comfortable and supported.
5. Attach the Armrests
- Screw the armrests into place on either side of the seat frame. These should be positioned slightly above the seat slats for comfort.
6. Finishing Touches
- Sand all edges and surfaces to smooth out rough areas and splinters.
- Apply wood filler to any screw holes or imperfections and let it dry.
- Sand the filled areas smooth.
- Finish with an outdoor wood sealant to protect your chair from the elements. Apply 2-3 coats, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Final Assembly
- Once all pieces are assembled, test the reclining mechanism to ensure it moves smoothly and locks in place if necessary.
- Check that all screws are tight and the frame is sturdy.
Tips:
- Be sure to use high-quality outdoor wood and a finish that’s designed for outdoor use to ensure longevity.
- If the chair is not reclining enough for comfort, you can adjust the angle by changing the position of the hinges or adding a reclining support at the bottom.
- If you are unsure about creating the reclining mechanism, you might want to look into a pre-made adjustable reclining chair mechanism, which can simplify the process.
Enjoy your new deck chair! It’s a functional and stylish addition to any outdoor space.