Creating a wooden hall bench with a coat rack is a great project that combines both functionality and style for your entryway or hallway. This guide will take you through the steps required to make a sturdy and attractive piece of furniture that will serve as both a seat and a storage solution.
Materials Needed:
- Wood planks (preferably hardwood like pine, oak, or maple)
- Plywood (for the back of the bench)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
- Coat hooks (4-6 depending on your design)
- Hinges (if you want a lift-up seat)
- Saw (circular saw or table saw)
- Drill and drill bits
- Measuring tape
- Wood clamps
- Level
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, ear protection)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Design Your Hall Bench
Before cutting any wood, sketch out a design of your bench and coat rack. A typical hall bench with a coat rack might consist of:
- A seat that is approximately 18 inches in height, which is standard for a comfortable sitting height.
- The back of the bench, which will have hooks for hanging coats, jackets, and other accessories.
- A storage compartment, either with a lift-up seat or an open shelf, depending on your design.
You can customize the size based on the space where the bench will sit, but typical bench dimensions are:
- Length: 40-60 inches
- Depth: 15-18 inches
- Height: 18-36 inches, depending on the backrest
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Start by measuring and cutting your wood to the required dimensions. You will need the following pieces:
- Seat: A flat piece of wood that will serve as the sitting surface (approximately 40-60 inches long by 15-18 inches wide).
- Side Panels: Two vertical pieces of wood that will support the seat (about 18 inches tall and 15-18 inches deep).
- Back Panel: A vertical piece that will hold your coat hooks and provide back support (about 36 inches tall).
- Shelf (Optional): A lower horizontal shelf for additional storage, typically 12-14 inches off the ground.
Step 3: Sand the Edges
Once you’ve cut your pieces, smooth the edges with sandpaper. Start with medium-grit sandpaper to remove roughness, and then follow up with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth, polished finish. Sanding will not only improve the appearance but also prevent any splinters when using the bench.
Step 4: Assemble the Frame
Now that you have your pieces cut and smoothed, it’s time to assemble the main frame of the bench.
Attach the Side Panels to the Seat: Apply wood glue to the edge of each side panel and attach them to either side of the seat piece. Reinforce the joints with wood screws, drilling pilot holes first to prevent the wood from splitting. Use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries.
Add the Back Panel: Attach the back panel to the rear edge of the seat, securing it with wood glue and screws. Ensure that the back panel is perfectly vertical by using a level to check alignment.
Step 5: Install the Coat Rack Hooks
Once the frame is assembled, measure where you want to place your coat hooks. Typically, coat hooks should be placed about 6-8 inches apart and around 6-8 inches from the top of the bench. Drill pilot holes for the hooks and then screw them into place. You can use decorative hooks to give the coat rack a stylish look.
Step 6: Add the Storage Shelf (Optional)
If you want to add an extra storage space under the seat, you can install a shelf. Measure and cut a plywood piece that fits between the side panels, just above the floor. Attach it with wood glue and screws to the side panels. This shelf can be used to store shoes, bags, or other small items.
Step 7: Install the Lift-Up Seat (Optional)
For added functionality, consider adding a lift-up seat with a hidden storage compartment. To do this:
- Attach hinges to the back of the seat and to the back panel of the bench.
- Install a latch or support arm to keep the seat open when lifted. This will allow you to store larger items, such as blankets or hats, inside the bench.
Step 8: Finish and Paint or Stain
Now that the bench and coat rack are fully assembled, it’s time to finish it. You can paint or stain the wood to match your home’s decor. If you’re using wood stain, apply a coat, let it dry, and then apply a clear wood finish (like polyurethane) to protect the surface from wear and tear.
If you choose to paint, make sure to use a primer before applying your paint color. Once dry, finish with a coat of clear sealer to preserve the paint and make the bench more durable.
Step 9: Final Assembly
Once the finish is completely dry, move the bench into place. If you added a shelf or lift-up seat, check to ensure they open and close smoothly. Make any final adjustments to the hooks if necessary.
Step 10: Add Cushions or Pillows (Optional)
If you’d like, you can add cushions or pillows to the seat for extra comfort. This will make the bench more inviting and cozy, especially for guests who may use it to put on or take off shoes.
Tips for Success:
- Take your time measuring and cutting the pieces to ensure a tight, secure fit.
- Use wood glue in addition to screws for added strength at the joints.
- Choose high-quality hardware (hooks, hinges) for a durable and professional look.
- If you’re staining the wood, always test the stain on a scrap piece first to make sure you’re happy with the color.
Conclusion
Building a hall bench with a coat rack is a relatively simple project that can add both style and function to your home. With just a few tools and some basic woodworking skills, you can create a beautiful piece of furniture that will serve as a welcoming spot for guests to hang coats and bags while providing additional storage space.
For more woodworking tips, plans, and step-by-step instructions, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.