This woodworking project was built and designed by Jose from Build It With Jose. If you’re interested in creating practical and stylish woodworking projects, make sure to visit Jose’s YouTube channel for detailed tutorials and inspiration.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jose’s channel:
Why Build a Shoe Rack Bench?
A shoe rack bench is one of the best ways to keep your entryway tidy, organized, and welcoming. It offers a convenient space to store shoes neatly, as well as a comfortable place to sit while putting on footwear.
Additionally, building your own bench allows you to customize its dimensions and style to perfectly suit your home. Whether placed in an entryway, mudroom, or bedroom, a shoe rack bench can significantly improve both aesthetics and functionality.
Choosing Your Materials
Jose began this build by selecting durable hardwood suitable for everyday use, ensuring the bench withstands constant wear and tear. The choice of quality wood helps ensure the structure remains stable, sturdy, and visually appealing for years.
Each piece of lumber was carefully examined for warping or defects before cutting, which is critical to creating a stable and reliable bench. Taking the time to select high-quality wood pays off in both durability and appearance.
Preparing the Wood
The first stage involved cutting the top piece of the bench to an appropriate length to comfortably fit the intended space. Jose carefully measured and cut this main surface, as accuracy here sets the foundation for the rest of the project.
Next, he prepared the legs, choosing a height typically around 18 inches, ideal for comfortable seating. Consistent measurements were essential to ensure the bench was level and sturdy.
Creating Structural Strength
To create a robust frame, Jose utilized dado joints to add stability and secure the shelf in place. These grooves provide additional strength, making the bench suitable for supporting both shoes and body weight.
He positioned these dados carefully, allowing sufficient room for various types of shoes, including taller footwear like boots. Precision at this stage greatly improved the functionality and versatility of the finished bench.
Assembling the Bench
During assembly, Jose used glue and screws to securely join the legs and shelf, ensuring everything stayed firmly together. Countersinking screws provided a neat, flush appearance, enhancing the professional look of the finished project.
Clamps were used extensively to hold components firmly in place during drying, ensuring the alignment remained perfect throughout assembly. Proper use of clamps made the assembly process smoother and helped achieve an accurate and square final product.
Sanding and Preparing for Finish
Once the bench structure was assembled, Jose thoroughly sanded all surfaces, removing any rough edges or imperfections. Sanding ensured a smooth, comfortable finish and prepared the wood for staining or painting.
This step is particularly crucial for achieving a professional-quality finish. Smooth surfaces not only feel better to touch but also greatly improve how stains or paints adhere to the wood.
Applying the Finish
For the finishing stage, Jose applied a stain designed to highlight the natural beauty of the hardwood. Using a sponge applicator, he ensured even coverage, minimizing streaks or blotches.
After applying the stain, he carefully wiped off excess to maintain an even and attractive look. A properly applied finish significantly enhances both the appearance and durability of the bench.
Enjoying Your Shoe Rack Bench
Once the finish was completely dry, the shoe rack bench was ready to be used. It immediately improved the organization and appearance of the entryway, providing a practical storage solution for shoes and boots.
Beyond storage, the bench offered a comfortable place to sit, making daily routines like putting on shoes more convenient. This simple DIY project delivers big results, enhancing both functionality and comfort in your home.
Ready to Build Your Own?
If you’d like to see the entire build process step-by-step, Jose’s video provides a clear, easy-to-follow tutorial. His detailed explanations will help you build your own shoe rack bench confidently, no matter your skill level.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jose’s channel: