This project was built and designed by John Dolechek. It’s a practical and customizable bench made entirely from leftover scrap wood, perfect for adding extra seating or a rustic accent to any space.
Using common offcuts like 2x8s and 2x2s, John shows how you can create a sturdy and good-looking piece with minimal material. It’s a great way to use what’s already in your shop and end up with something functional.
Watch the full video and subscribe to John’s channel:
Getting Started with Materials
John starts with a mix of scrap wood, including a 2×8 for the bench seat and several 2x2s for the legs and supports. This type of build is flexible, so dimensions and layout can be adjusted based on what materials you have on hand.
Choosing sturdy wood for the seat is important to ensure the bench holds up to regular use. The smaller pieces work well for building out the leg structure.
Tools for the Job
This project doesn’t require a full shop of equipment. Basic tools like a drill, tape measure, clamps, and a pocket hole jig are enough to get the job done.
Wood glue is also helpful for reinforcing joints and adding stability. The pocket hole jig helps keep fasteners hidden for a cleaner final look.
Building the Bench Frame
The legs are built from 2x2s cut to size and joined using pocket holes. John recommends drilling into the less attractive sides of the wood to hide screw holes.
After cutting the pieces, the leg assemblies are secured with cross braces. Making sure everything is square during assembly is key to avoiding a wobbly bench later on.
Pre-drilling helps prevent splitting and makes attaching pieces easier. Clamps come in handy for keeping everything steady while fastening.
Attaching the Bench Seat
Once the leg frame is assembled, it’s time to add the 2×8 seat. The frame is flipped upside down and centered on the bottom of the seat board.
Pilot holes are drilled through the cross supports and into the seat to attach it securely. Taking time to check alignment ensures the final product sits evenly.
Sanding and Finishing
With the bench assembled, John sands the entire surface to remove any rough spots or sharp corners. Starting with medium grit and finishing with fine grit leaves the wood smooth to the touch.
For protection, he applies several coats of polyurethane. This keeps the wood sealed and adds a natural, low-gloss finish that works in a variety of spaces.
Why Build a Scrap Wood Bench?
A small bench like this is useful in many places—entryways, patios, or the end of a bed. It’s a simple build that makes good use of leftover wood while creating something lasting.
Projects like this are a reminder that you don’t need fancy lumber to make furniture that works. With a little time and care, scrap pieces can become something beautiful and functional.
Want to See the Full Build?
Please support John by visiting his website here: https://johndolechek.myportfolio.com/.