How to Build an Entryway Bench

About a year ago I decided that I wanted an entryway bench for my house for storage and to sit down when I came in to take off my shoes. I was also not working full-time so I didn’t have the extra money to spend hundreds of dollars on one at the store so I decided to build one.What I wanted was something that was going to complement the style I had in my house but that would also go with the next house I lived in. Thank you military for all the moving expertise.I am actually pretty handy and was excited to actually build something from scratch versus just refinishing it. My dad came to visit and I asked for his help but this is something I can completely do on my own. I did this project for about $40.Before my dad came to visit I had searched through Pinterest trying to find directions on how to build an entryway bench in the style I was looking for. I didn't really find one but I found a couple of other ones that I liked and showed my dad. Together we came up with this design.The biggest difference I found was in how we decided to actually build it without using a Jig. I wanted it to be as easy as possible and cost me the least amount of money.

Materials

You can get all of the materials you need at a Lowe’s or Home Depot. They will even cut the wood for you so you don’t have to do it at home. This is great because I drive a Kia and the big piece wouldn't fit in my little car. I bought all of my products at Lowe's but any hardware store should have the materials besides the wood.

• Wood 2x12x12 (Cut)
• Screws
• Stain
• Wood Putty

Tools

I already had all of the tools except one which I borrowed from my dad. Again most of my tools were purchased at Lowe's or Home Depot. Most hardware stores will have these available for purchase. Because I didn't have to buy these this helped keep my costs down.

• Sander
• Drill and Drill Bits
• Countersink Bit
• Paint Brushes/wipes for stain

Cuts:

Originally I went in with different numbers but that was going to give me scraps and I decided I didn't want to have to worry about that so I just did the math so I didn't have any waste and it gave me a slightly longer bench with more space for storage. I had designed it to fit the 12x12x12 bins perfectly but I actually like the extra wiggle room now.

• 2 pieces 18”
• 2 pieces 12”
• 2 pieces 42”

Steps on How to Build an Entryway Bench:

1. Once you have already cut your pieces you will want to sand them down thoroughly. All pieces need to be smooth including the edges.
2. Next measure and pre-drill holes for the screws.
3. Then use the countersink bit on the holes on the sides and top enough to fill with putty once the screw is in place.
4. Screw all the boards together.
5. Put wood putty in holes from the screws.
6. Sand and make sure it is standing level.
7. Stain and seal.

Hope you enjoy building it and if you have any questions please ask!! Please make sure to check out my DIY page for more fun ideas and crafts to make. If you see something you are interested in trying and don't know how you can also reach out to me! I love working on new projects.