DIY Wood Slat Bench
This Wood Slat Bench was such a fun DIY! Our new master bedroom finally allows the space for us to have a bench at the end of the bed. This has been something we have talked about for a while since Andrew travels for work. When he packs his suitcase, he lays it out on our bed, and I’ve long wanted a wood bench for him to be able to pack on. I love the design of this slatted bench and it gives our bedroom a modern look!
Step 1: Cut the Boards
Using a chop saw, I cut the 2x3x8’ boards into 7 2x3x50” and 14 2x3x15”. Next, I cut the 1x3x8’ boards into 12 1x3x17.5”. With my boards cut, I was ready to assemble!
Tip! I recommend sanding your boards lightly before assembling! It was very difficult to sand in between the gaps on the seat of the bench.
Step 2: Nail & Glue boards together
Starting with one of the 2x3x50” boards, I placed a 2x3x15” board at a 90-degree angle. I ensure this was straight using a precision square tool. I squeezed a small amount of liquid nails to hold the boards together. Then, I put the glue on both boards, starting with the 15” board up to the top. I repeated this process on the other side of the 50″ board.
Next, I placed a 1x3x17.5” on top of this section. Using a Brad Nailer and 1 1/4″ nails, I nailed it into place! I utilized 1 1/4″ nails for the first 17.5″ board as I did not want the nails to go through the bottom board. I repeated this process on the other side of the 50″ board.
Finally, I repeated the above until I had secured all boards together! I switched to 2″ Brad Nails for the remainder of the bench build.
Step 3: Add Wood Filler
Before applying the wood filler, I lightly sanded the bench with 80-grit sandpaper and wiped the bench down with denatured alcohol. Using a putty knife, I added wood filler into the cracks on the sides & top corners of the bench. I let dry and re-applied to any areas with holes/pits remaining.
Step 4: Sand the Wood
I began sanding any excess wood filler using my palm sander and 80-grit sandpaper. I softened the edge of the bench using my sander to create a more rounded look.
Once I was happy with the edges, I sanded the entire bench with 120-grit and worked my way to 220-grit to make the bench super smooth! I again wiped the bench down with denatured alcohol.
Step 5: Apply Stain
To stain my bench I used General Finishes Brown Mahogany gel stain in order to match my nightstands. I applied my stain using a sock! First, I put gloves on and then a white sock over my right hand. I applied the stain liberally with my sock hand, using a rag in my left hand to lightly wipe the stain application. I applied two coats followed by two coats of General Finishes Gel Satin finish. Be mindful of drips through the cracks of your bench!
This DIY Bench really fits any style room. I love the way it compliments our bedroom and am looking forward to adding a few baskets underneath for storage.
Looking for more DIY Bench Ideas? Check out our Mudroom Bench!
Wood Slat Bench Links
DIY Wood Slat Bench
Equipment
- Chop Saw
- Precision Square Tool
- Brad Nailer
- Caulk Gun
- Palm Sander
- Sock (or a rag!)
- Rags
- Gloves
materials
- 7 2x3x8 Whitewood Boards
- 3 1x3x8 Whitewood Boards
- Brad Nails (1 1/4” & 2”)
- Liquid Nails
- Stainable Wood Filler
- 80 Grit Sandpaper
- 120 Grit Sandpaper
- 220 Grit Sandpaper
- Denatured Alcohol
- Brown Mahogany Gel Stain
- Gel Satin Finish
Instructions
- Cut the Boards
- Nail & Glue Boards Together
- Add Wood Filler
- Sand the Wood
- Apply Stain
This bench is so cute! I love it so much. We are doing a mini kitchen remodel & I would love to make this to go with our kitchen table. I am having our kitchen cabinets painted first so maybe after that I will work on this! Thanks so much for sharing!