Building a wooden Adirondack chair with a cup holder is a great DIY project. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you build a sturdy and comfortable chair.
Materials & Tools
Materials
- 1×6 and 1×4 pressure-treated or cedar wood boards
- 2×4 boards for structural support
- Wood screws (1 1/4” and 2”)
- Exterior wood glue
- Sandpaper (120 & 220 grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Polyurethane sealant (for extra weather resistance)
Tools
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Drill with bits
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
- Square
- Sander
- Hole saw or jigsaw (for cup holder)
- Pencil or chalk for marking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut the Wood
Cut the following pieces:
- Back slats: 5 pieces of 1×4, each around 36” long
- Seat slats: 6 pieces of 1×4, each around 22” long
- Armrests: 2 pieces of 1×6, about 26” long
- Front legs: 2 pieces of 2×4, about 22” long
- Back legs (supports): 2 pieces of 2×4, around 36” long with an angle cut at one end (about 15°)
- Seat supports: 2 pieces of 2×4, around 23” long
- Back support rail: 1 piece of 1×4, around 24” long
- Front apron: 1 piece of 1×4, around 24” long
Step 2: Assemble the Frame
- Attach the front legs – Position the front legs vertically and secure them to the seat supports using 2” wood screws.
- Attach the back legs – Align the back legs at an angle (about 15°) and secure them to the front legs and seat supports.
- Install the seat slats – Space them evenly and screw them onto the seat supports.
- Attach the backrest – Position the slats vertically, securing them to a horizontal 1×4 support rail.
Step 3: Install the Armrests
- Secure the armrests to the front legs and the back supports with wood screws.
- For added support, attach a small vertical brace under the armrests.
Step 4: Add the Cup Holder
- Mark the location of the cup holder on one armrest (near the front).
- Use a hole saw (around 3” diameter) or a jigsaw to cut the hole.
- Sand the edges smooth.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
- Sand all surfaces smooth with 120-grit, then 220-grit sandpaper.
- Apply exterior wood stain or paint for protection.
- Seal with polyurethane if desired.
Final Thoughts
Your Adirondack chair is now ready to use! You can customize it by adjusting the recline angle, adding cushions, or even installing a bottle opener. Would you like a more detailed diagram or cut list?