Building a wooden garden chair with armrests and cushions can be a rewarding DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials Needed:
- Wood: For a sturdy chair, consider using pressure-treated pine, cedar, or teak (which is weather-resistant).
- Screws or Wood Screws: 2 ½-inch screws are a good choice for assembling parts.
- Wood Glue: To add extra hold to the joints.
- Cushions: You can either buy pre-made cushions or make them yourself.
- Sandpaper: For smoothing out rough edges.
- Outdoor Paint or Stain: For weatherproofing your chair.
- Foam and Fabric: If you want to make your own cushions, you’ll need foam padding and outdoor fabric.
Tools Required:
- Circular saw or hand saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Sandpaper or power sander
- Wood clamps (optional, but helpful for holding pieces together)
- Stapler (if making cushions)
Instructions:
1. Design the Chair:
- Seat dimensions: The standard width of a garden chair seat is about 18 inches, and the depth is typically around 18–20 inches.
- Backrest height: About 32–36 inches from the ground, but this can be adjusted based on your preferences.
- Armrest height: Generally about 24–26 inches from the ground.
2. Cut the Wood Pieces:
You’ll need several parts for the frame:
- 2 side pieces: These will form the legs and back support. Cut two pieces about 36 inches long (adjustable based on back height).
- Seat supports: Four pieces, each about 18–20 inches long.
- Back support slats: Four to six pieces, cut to about 20 inches (depending on your design).
- Armrests: Two pieces, about 20–22 inches long, depending on how wide you want the arms.
- Cross supports: Optional, for added sturdiness (about 18 inches long).
3. Assemble the Chair Frame:
- Legs: Attach the two side pieces to the seat supports with wood screws and glue to form the base. Make sure everything is square.
- Seat Slats: Attach the seat slats to the seat supports with screws or nails. Space them evenly.
- Backrest: Attach the back slats to the top of the side pieces. Use screws to secure them tightly.
- Armrests: Attach the armrests to the top of the side pieces, making sure they’re level with the seat.
4. Add the Armrest Braces (Optional):
If you want extra stability, you can add a brace underneath the armrests, connecting the two side pieces.
5. Sand the Edges:
Use sandpaper or a power sander to smooth out rough edges and any splinters. Focus on the seat and back edges for comfort.
6. Finish the Wood:
- Apply an outdoor wood finish like varnish, paint, or a wood sealer to protect the chair from the elements.
- Allow it to dry completely before using it outdoors.
7. Make or Attach Cushions:
- To make your own cushions: Measure the seat and backrest area. Cut foam to fit, and then cover it with outdoor fabric, stapling it around the edges.
- To buy pre-made cushions: Find cushions that fit your chair’s dimensions and place them on the seat and backrest.
8. Optional Touches:
- Add decorative elements like armrest covers, throw pillows, or a weather-resistant canopy for shade.
Final Thoughts:
This project can be adapted depending on your skill level and design preferences. If you’re new to woodworking, you might want to practice on a smaller project first. Otherwise, a wooden garden chair is a great way to add a personal touch to your outdoor space!
How are you planning to personalize your chair? Would you like any more design tips?