How To Build Slatted Bench: A Beginner Woodworking Project

Hey Kelsey here, and welcome back to a series we have called “That Cost How Muuuuch?!”. As the title suggests, this is a series where we look at products that literally make ourselves ask “that cost how much???” and figure out if we can essentially DIY them for a lesser price. 

We are actually in the middle of our next big makeover for someone special. And when looking for statement pieces for the space, I was immediately obsessed with the idea of a slatted bench. But after realizing how much these cost, I knew I had to DIY it, with our main inspo coming from HK Living USA’s “Slatted Teak Wood Bench L” priced at $849USD.

Materials

• 8 planks of lumber @ 2” x 4” x 72” 

• 3 planks of lumber @ 1” x 4” x 72” (Wood total: $28.85)

• Wood glue

• Approximately 100 2” wood screws ($7.68)

• Sandpaper (220 grit)

• Carpenter Square

• Drill

• Wood stain ($12.70) and top coat

Step 1: Measure and cut your wood

Gather your materials and measure your lumber to the following specifications:

• Cut your 2x4s into 7 pieces measuring 50 inches for the bench top

• Cut your remaining 2x4s into 14 pieces measuring 14 inches for your legs

• Cut your 1x4s into 12 pieces measuring 18 inches each for your joining pieces.

Step 2: Sand your wood

To achieve a polished look, and avoid splinters when constructing your bench, give your cut pieces of wood a good sanding.

Step 3: Lay out your bench shape

Lay out your best front-facing 2x4s, with the 2 shorter ones making up the legs, and the longer one making up the seat. This layout will serve as the foundation for your bench, so make sure your legs are at exactly 90° angles by using a carpenter square.

Step 4: Join the bench top and legs with 1x4s

To join your bench top and legs (as well as achieve the slatted effect) apply wood glue along the surface of your 2x4s, bridging the gap between the legs and seat. Then, carefully place a 1x4 piece across the leg 2x4 and the seat 2x4 to create a secure corner. Attach them in place by drilling 2 pilot holes in the leg portion, and 2 pilot holes in the seat portion, and then screw them together. 

Step 5: Repeat

Repeat this pattern, alternating between the 2x4s and 1x4s until you’re out of wood.This project is pretty repetitive, but simple.

Step 6: Stain and top coat

Once your bench is fully assembled, add a stain of your choice and finish it all off with a top coat.

Cost comparison

Breaking it all down, I personally think that this DIY turned out beautifully, and better yet, I was able to customize it to fit the space that I was working with. I especially love that I was able to stay well within my budget!

• Original: $849 USD

• DIY: $49.23 USD

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