Looking for a simple and stylish beach chair project? Ana White has created a fantastic plan for a two-piece wooden beach chair that is both portable and comfortable. This guide will walk you through the steps to build your own chair, perfect for relaxing by the water or in your backyard.
Materials
- 1 Cedar fence picket
- 1×2 boards
- 1 and 1/4 inch self-tapping screws
- Wood glue
Tools
- Compound miter saw or circular saw
- Jigsaw (optional)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Sandpaper
Step 1: Prepare the Wood
Start by sanding the cedar fence pickets as they may be rough. Cut all the wood according to the cut list provided in the free plans. The easiest way to cut the wood is with a compound miter saw, but a circular saw or jigsaw will work too.
Step 2: Build the Seat Back Frame
Take the 30-inch long 1×2 boards and mark them 5 inches up. Attach one cedar fence picket at the top using only two screws for now, as you will need to adjust the frame for squareness later. Next, add the 1×2 board at the base, also measured 5 inches up, using glue.
Work quickly since the glue dries fast. Measure the opposite diagonal distances to ensure they match, adjusting as necessary to keep the frame square. Once squared, finish screwing in the top cedar picket and add two more screws.
Step 3: Complete the Back Frame
Flip the back frame over and add the remaining 1×2, positioned 8 and 1/2 inches up from the bottom. Use a square and glue to attach this piece securely.
Step 4: Build the Seat Frame
Next, use glue and screws to attach the shortest 1×2 to the legs of the seat frame. Set the seat frame inside the back frame; it should be about a quarter inch smaller, allowing for an even gap on each side.
Attach the remaining two cedar fence pickets to the inner 1×2 on the seat frame. This method helps maintain squareness since the back frame is already square.
Step 5: Final Assembly
Remove the seat frame from the back frame, flip it over, and insert it back into the back frame to test the fit. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it fits snugly.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
For finishing, Ana suggests using a semi-transparent stain, such as Bare White Wash, giving it a beachy look while tying the cedar boards with the frame boards together. The chair can be customized easily—adjust the angle or increase the height of the back if desired.
Conclusion
This two-piece wooden beach chair is not only easy to build but also adjustable and customizable. Whether you choose the 1×2 frame for a lighter build or the sturdier 2×2 frame for added strength, you’ll end up with a beautiful chair perfect for any outdoor setting. Download the full plans here.