This project was built and designed by Jonny from Jonny Builds. It’s a beginner-friendly outdoor rocking chair that offers comfort, style, and durability while making a great addition to any outdoor seating setup.
Designed to pair perfectly with an outdoor sofa or stand alone as a relaxing retreat, this chair balances solid construction with approachable techniques. The project also introduces a traditional Japanese wood-burning technique for an optional dramatic finish.
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Project Overview
Building an outdoor rocking chair is a rewarding experience for any woodworker. Jonny’s design keeps things simple enough to complete in a single day, with about four hours of active build time.
The standout feature of this rocking chair is the use of the shou sugi ban technique. This ancient Japanese method of charring the wood surface adds natural weather resistance and creates a rich, dramatic look that fits outdoor spaces beautifully.
Choosing Materials and Tools
Jonny sticks with construction-grade lumber for this build, making the materials affordable and easy to source. The lumber is sturdy enough for outdoor use and offers some flexibility based on availability.
Tools used during the project include a miter saw for straight cuts, a jigsaw for shaping curves, an orbital sander for smooth surfaces, a drill with a pocket hole jig, and a brad nailer. These common tools keep the project accessible for woodworkers at almost any level.
Preparing the Lumber
Jonny begins by running the boards through a planer to clean up the surfaces. This step is optional but recommended for achieving a smoother finish and reducing sanding time later on.
Careful preparation of the lumber upfront ensures tighter joints and a cleaner look overall. Once milled, each piece is measured and cut to fit the design of the chair.
Shaping the Rockers
One of the most critical parts of a rocking chair is getting the curve of the rockers right. Jonny traces a natural, smooth arc onto thicker boards using a flexible offcut, ensuring both sides are symmetrical.
The rockers are then cut with a jigsaw and refined with sanding. The result is a comfortable, gentle rocking motion that feels natural when the chair is finished.
Assembling the Base
With the rockers ready, the next step is building the frame of the chair. Cross supports and side rails are attached to the rockers using pocket hole screws, creating a strong and hidden joint structure.
Keeping everything square during this stage is essential. Jonny takes the time to check and adjust the assembly as he goes, ensuring the frame remains stable and true.
Adding the Armrests and Seat Slats
Once the base is solid, armrests are added to give the chair structure and comfort. A spacer block is used to set the correct height and keep everything aligned during attachment.
Seat slats are cut and spaced with care, allowing for natural wood expansion and contraction. Each slat is attached securely, maintaining consistent gaps for both comfort and aesthetics.
Building and Attaching the Backrest
The backrest follows a similar approach, with slats attached vertically to provide support. Additional back supports are installed first to anchor the slats firmly.
Jonny uses brad nails and pocket hole screws throughout the assembly, ensuring a strong hold while keeping visible hardware to a minimum. This detail gives the finished chair a clean, professional appearance.
Finishing with Shou Sugi Ban
With construction complete, Jonny applies the shou sugi ban technique to the wood. Using a propane torch, the surfaces are carefully charred, which not only enhances durability but brings out a rich texture and deep grain patterns.
After burning, the surface is brushed clean and lightly sanded to remove any loose soot. The chair is then sealed with multiple coats of satin spar urethane to protect it from moisture and UV damage.
A Durable and Stylish Outdoor Chair
The final result is a sturdy, weather-resistant rocking chair with striking good looks. Whether you leave the wood charred for a dramatic effect or opt for a clear natural finish, this chair is built to last outdoors for years to come.
Jonny’s methodical approach makes this project achievable for a wide range of woodworkers. It also provides plenty of opportunities to personalize the design, whether by altering dimensions, finishes, or materials.
A Great DIY Project for Relaxation
Building an outdoor rocking chair is a great way to practice both woodworking and finishing skills. The satisfaction of sitting back and relaxing in a chair you built yourself is hard to beat.
Jonny’s detailed build and clear demonstration offer a straightforward path to creating a lasting piece of furniture. Whether you’re outfitting a porch, patio, or backyard retreat, this rocking chair is sure to become a favorite seat.
Please support Jonny by checking out his website here: https://www.jonny-builds.com/.
Matt’s Take
These are my personal thoughts and tips based on my own experience in the shop. This section is not written, reviewed, or endorsed by the original creator of this project.
The shou sugi ban finish really makes this project special. This traditional technique creates a natural preservative layer that helps protect outdoor furniture from moisture and insects. When applying the torch, work in steady, even passes and keep a spray bottle nearby for safety. The charred surface actually becomes more weather-resistant than most stains or sealers alone.
Construction-grade lumber is a smart choice for outdoor projects like this. It’s affordable and readily available, though I’d recommend letting the boards acclimate in your shop for a few days before starting. This helps minimize warping and movement after assembly. Pine and fir work great for this type of build, and the shou sugi ban technique helps disguise any minor imperfections in the wood.
Getting those rocker curves right is crucial for the chair’s performance. A smooth, consistent arc makes all the difference between a chair that rocks gently and one that feels awkward. Take your time with the template and don’t rush the jigsaw cuts. Clean up any marks left by the jigsaw with a sander or spokeshave – those tool marks will telegraph through any finish.
Pocket holes are perfect for this type of assembly since they create strong joints while staying hidden. Just remember to drill your pilot holes at the right depth for your screw length. The combination of mechanical fasteners and good joinery makes this chair sturdy enough for daily outdoor use.