Creating a wooden entryway bench with a built-in shoe rack is a practical and stylish addition to any home. It serves as a space-saver and provides a convenient place to sit while putting on or taking off shoes. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to build your own entryway bench with an integrated shoe rack.
Materials Needed:
- Wood for the bench frame: 1×12 boards (pine, oak, or any wood of your choice)
- Wood for the shoe rack: 1×4 boards
- Wood for the seat top: 1×6 or 1×8 boards
- Screws: Wood screws for assembling the frame and bench
- Wood glue
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
- Sandpaper or electric sander
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw or circular saw
- Drill with bits
- Wood filler (for filling screw holes)
- Clamps (optional, but useful for assembly)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Planning and Design
Before starting, measure the available space in your entryway. The standard size for a comfortable entryway bench is about 18 inches high and 18-24 inches deep. The length will depend on the available space, but around 4 feet is a typical length.
Decide on the style and finish of your bench. You can keep it rustic with a natural wood finish or paint it to match the decor of your home.
2. Cutting the Wood
You’ll start by cutting all your wood pieces according to your measurements:
- Seat Top: Cut two or three 1×6 or 1×8 boards to the desired length of your bench top. These will form the seat.
- Side Pieces: Cut two 1×12 boards to the height of your bench (usually 18 inches). These will form the sides.
- Front and Back Supports: Cut two 1×12 boards to match the length of your seat.
- Shoe Rack Slats: Cut your 1×4 boards to the desired length for the shoe rack. The slats should be spaced enough to fit shoes, so typically, a spacing of 1-2 inches between each slat works well.
3. Assembling the Frame
Start by assembling the basic structure of your bench:
- Lay the two side pieces (the 1×12 boards) flat and attach the front and back supports. Use wood glue for additional strength and secure them with screws.
- Make sure everything is square by checking the corners with a carpenter’s square.
- For extra stability, add a couple of horizontal braces between the side pieces along the back. This will help hold the weight of the seat and provide extra durability.
4. Attaching the Shoe Rack
Next, you’ll create the shoe rack:
- For the shoe rack, use the 1×4 pieces you cut earlier. Attach them horizontally between the two side pieces, leaving enough space between each slat to accommodate shoes.
- You can space the slats about 1-2 inches apart, depending on the shoe size you want to store.
- Attach the slats using wood glue and screws to ensure they are firmly in place.
5. Attaching the Seat
Now, it’s time to add the seat:
- Lay the seat pieces (the 1×6 or 1×8 boards) across the top of the frame.
- Attach them using screws from underneath so that the screws are hidden. Alternatively, you could use wood glue and clamp the boards into place, then let them dry for a stronger bond.
- Ensure the seat is centered and secure before moving to the next step.
6. Sanding and Finishing
Once the structure is assembled, it’s time to smooth everything out:
- Sand all surfaces of the bench, including the seat, side pieces, and shoe rack. Start with a rougher grit (like 80) and finish with a finer grit (220) for a smooth, polished surface.
- If you’re planning to stain or paint your bench, now is the time to do it. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats.
7. Adding the Final Touches
To make the bench more functional and stylish, consider adding some finishing touches:
- Cushion for the Seat: You can add a cushion or pillow to make sitting more comfortable. Choose a fabric that complements your home decor and fits the dimensions of the seat.
- Hooks for Coats or Bags: Install some decorative hooks along the back or sides of the bench for additional storage. This could be a great spot for coats, hats, or bags.
- Decorative Elements: Add a few finishing touches like wood trim or a coat of polyurethane to protect the surface from damage.
8. Final Assembly and Placement
Once your bench is dry and fully assembled, place it in your entryway. Test the stability of the seat and shoe rack to ensure everything is secure.
If you added a cushion, ensure it fits snugly on the seat and doesn’t slide around. You can also add some small rubber feet to the bottom of the legs to prevent scratches on your floor.
Tips for Success:
- Pre-drill holes before screwing pieces together. This will help prevent the wood from splitting.
- Customize the size: Feel free to adjust the size of the bench to fit your space. A larger bench can hold more shoes, while a smaller one may be better for more compact entryways.
- Choose durable wood: For a more durable, high-quality bench, consider hardwoods like oak or maple instead of softwoods like pine.
- Finish for protection: If you’re planning to use the bench frequently, applying a protective finish like polyurethane can help preserve the wood and extend its life.
This simple yet functional wooden entryway bench with a built-in shoe rack will enhance your entryway, providing both seating and storage. It’s a project that combines woodworking with practical design to create a versatile piece of furniture that will last for years to come.
For more woodworking projects, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Ted’s Woodworking Course