This project is by Welcome to the Woods. This DIY project is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to add a personal touch to your home decor.
Step 1: Stripping the Varnish
The first thing to do is strip the varnish off the old oak boards. Use Citristrip, which works quickly but has strong odors and chemicals, so make sure to do this in a well-ventilated area. Apply it thickly with a brush and after it sets for a short time, scrape off the varnish.
Step 2: Sanding the Boards
Once the varnish is removed, use a belt sander to smooth out the wood. It’s important to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid leaving marks. For these boards, you will want to sand along the length.
Step 3: Cutting the Slats
After sanding, it’s time to trim the boards down into slats. Use a table saw to cut the inner slat boards to an inch and a half wide and the outer frame boards to two and a quarter inches wide. Then, use a miter saw to cut each slat to about 46 inches long.
Step 4: Preparing for Finishing
Before applying any finish, fill in all imperfections and sand the boards first with 80 grit sandpaper, then with 150 grit to ensure everything is smooth. This step is crucial for a good stain application.
Step 5: Staining the Wood
Stain the pieces before assembling to avoid drips in between the slats. Use Verithane red mahogany wood stain followed by two coats of Minwax water-based polycrylic to seal the wood.
Step 6: Assembling the Frame
To begin assembly, use a corner clamp and wood glue to join the four mitered corners of the outer frame. This ensures everything stays aligned while you screw it together from the back.
Step 7: Adding the Support Pieces
Drill pocket holes in the three bottom support pieces to secure everything to the outer frame. Arrange the slats inside the frame with the best side facing down, using spacers cut from scrap wood for even spacing.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Pre-drill the support boards into each of the slots and use construction screws to secure everything in place. This design hides all holes and hardware, giving it a clean look.
Step 9: Attaching the Legs
Finally, it’s time to add the legs. Use typical hairpin legs, which can be found cheaply online. Mark each hole, glue a small spacer under one of the holes, and then pre-drill and screw the legs into place.
Step 10: Enjoy Your New Bench!
Your modern slat bench is now complete! Place it in your desired spot and enjoy how it enhances your home while providing extra seating.