This project was built and designed by Jay Bates. It’s a sturdy and inviting bench made entirely from 2×4 lumber, with angled legs and a supportive backrest that make it ideal for outdoor relaxation.
The bench design combines straightforward construction with clean lines and durability. It’s a project well-suited for any skill level and offers great potential as a backyard upgrade or a profitable item to sell locally.
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Why a 2×4 Bench Makes Sense
Using 2x4s for outdoor furniture is a smart choice—they’re affordable, easy to find, and structurally strong. Jay’s bench uses standard lumber in a way that’s efficient and good-looking, making it an ideal build for beginner and experienced woodworkers alike.
This project is also adaptable. It can be stained or painted to match your space, scaled for different lengths, and built using tools most woodworkers already have in their shop.
Gathering Materials and Planning the Build
The materials list is simple: 2×4 lumber, outdoor-rated screws, and optional wood glue for extra strength. Jay also provides free plans with a detailed cutting diagram, which is helpful for batching pieces or ensuring minimal waste.
If you’ve got scrap wood on hand, this is a great project to put it to use. The basic shapes and repeated cuts make it perfect for using offcuts while keeping the bench consistent in strength and appearance.
Cutting and Prepping the Parts
Each board is cut according to the plan, with clean edges and consistent lengths being the top priority. A miter saw is ideal for speed and accuracy, but a circular saw or jigsaw can also get the job done with careful setup.
Jay recommends placing the best-looking side of each board face down during layout. This ensures the visible surfaces look clean and uniform once the bench is assembled.
Pocket Holes vs. Traditional Screws
Jay uses pocket holes in several steps to keep the fasteners hidden and joints tight. These are drilled at set locations according to a pocket hole schedule included in his plans.
If you don’t own a pocket hole jig, the build can still be completed using regular screws from the top. While not as sleek, the result will still be solid and functional with minimal visual trade-offs.
Constructing the Angled Leg Assemblies
The leg assemblies are a standout feature in this build. Each side forms a parallelogram shape that gives the bench a slight recline and added stability.
To prevent movement over time, Jay places screws along the long diagonal of each angled joint. He also uses wood glue for reinforcement, ensuring the bench stays solid through years of use.
Connecting the Frame with Supports
With the legs complete, a spacer block helps align the horizontal supports consistently. These boards connect the front and back of the bench, and careful measuring ensures the final structure is square and level.
Jay secures the supports using the same screw-and-glue method, making sure the backrest area is flush and ready for the slats. This structure acts as the skeleton for the rest of the bench.
Installing the Seat and Back Slats
The seat is made from several 2×4 slats spaced evenly apart. Consistent spacing—about a quarter inch—is key here for both appearance and comfort. Jay uses a drill bit or pencil as a makeshift spacer to keep things uniform.
The slats are fastened with pocket holes for a clean look, though top screws work fine if appearance is less of a concern. For the back slats, an extension for your drill might be useful when space gets tight.
Adjusting the First Back Slat for Comfort
Jay spaces the first back slat slightly above the seat slats to create a visual break and provide better support. This small change gives the bench a more polished look and makes it more comfortable to lean against.
Once the first slat is in place, the remaining back pieces follow the same spacing. As with the seat, glue and screws are used to lock everything in position.
Durable, Comfortable, and Sale-Ready
The finished bench is strong enough for daily use and has a clean design that suits many outdoor settings. It’s easy to replicate and can be scaled for different needs or aesthetic preferences.
Whether you’re furnishing your backyard or looking to create a product to sell at markets or online, this bench checks all the boxes. The all-2×4 design keeps material costs low and simplifies the cutting and assembly process.
Please support Jay by purchasing his plans here: Jay’s Custom Creations.