How to build a wooden poolside lounge chair with a reclining back

Building a wooden poolside lounge chair with a reclining back can be a rewarding project, offering both comfort and style. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you construct your chair.

Materials Needed:

• Wood: Use weather-resistant wood like cedar, teak, or redwood for durability and resistance to the elements. You’ll need enough to cut the various parts of the chair.
• Wood Screws: 2-3” deck screws to assemble the pieces.
• Wood Glue: For additional strength in joints.
• Outdoor Finish: For weatherproofing and preserving the wood.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing the edges and surfaces.
• Tools: Saw (table saw, miter saw, or jigsaw), drill, screwdriver, tape measure, and clamp.

Chair Components:

1. Seat slats (5-7 pieces): These will make up the flat seating surface of the lounge chair.
2. Back slats (5-7 pieces): These will form the reclining backrest.
3. Legs (4 pieces): These will support the chair’s frame.
4. Side rails (2 pieces): Connect the front and back of the chair.
5. Armrests (2 pieces): Attach on either side of the chair for support and comfort.
6. Reclining mechanism: A simple system using angled back legs or an adjustable hinge.

Steps to Build the Chair:

Step 1: Prepare the Wood

Start by cutting the wood into the necessary lengths for the seat slats, back slats, legs, side rails, and armrests. Depending on your design, you can adjust the size of the chair.

• Seat Slats: Cut the seat slats to around 2.5″ wide and 18-20″ long.
• Back Slats: The back slats should be about 5-6″ wide and cut to around 18-22″ long.
• Legs: Cut the legs to about 12-15″ for the front and 14-18″ for the back (depending on the reclining angle you prefer).
• Side Rails: The side rails should be about 18-22″ long for the seat and 20-24″ for the back, depending on your chair dimensions.
• Armrests: Cut the armrests to about 20-22″ long and slightly curved for comfort.

Step 2: Sand and Smooth Edges

Before assembling, sand the edges and surfaces of each piece of wood to remove splinters and rough spots. This will ensure your chair is comfortable to sit on.

Step 3: Assemble the Seat Frame

1. Start by attaching the two side rails to the front and back legs. Use wood screws and wood glue at each connection point. Make sure the frame is square by checking with a carpenter’s square.
2. Attach the seat slats to the side rails. Space them evenly, leaving a small gap between each slat for drainage.

Step 4: Build the Reclining Backrest

1. To make the backrest recline, attach the back legs at an angle to the back frame. You can use a simple angled cut on the top of the back legs for this purpose.
2. If you prefer a more adjustable recline, install hinges between the backrest and the seat frame. This allows you to lock the backrest in different positions.
3. Attach the back slats, securing them evenly across the back frame.

Step 5: Attach the Armrests

1. Attach the armrests to the top of the side rails, ensuring they are level and sturdy. You can angle the armrests slightly downward for comfort.
2. Secure them with wood screws and glue.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Apply a finish to the wood, such as an outdoor wood sealant, to protect it from water damage, UV rays, and wear from outdoor conditions.
2. Allow the chair to dry completely before using.

Optional: Add Cushioning or Fabric

For added comfort, you can make or buy cushions for the seat and backrest. Fabric covers designed for outdoor furniture are ideal for poolside lounges.

By following these steps, you will have a comfortable and durable wooden lounge chair with a reclining back, perfect for relaxing by the pool!

For more woodworking projects and detailed guides, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.