61+ Storage Bench With Cushion And Hooks ~ My Wood Blog

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Welcome! Are you looking to add extra storage and seating to your entryway, mudroom, or hallway? This guide will walk you through building a DIY storage bench with a cushion and hooks. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need:

Lumber (pine, poplar, or your preferred wood). Calculate dimensions based on your desired bench size. Consider the thickness for sturdiness (e.g., 1x4, 1x6, 2x4).
Plywood or MDF for the bench seat and back panel (optional).
Cushion foam (density based on preference).
Fabric for the cushion (durable and easy to clean is recommended).
Hooks (number and style of your choice).
Screws (wood screws in various lengths).
Wood glue.
Sandpaper (various grits).
Paint, stain, or varnish (depending on your desired finish).
Upholstery batting (optional, for extra cushion comfort).

Tools You'll Need:

Saw (circular saw, miter saw, or hand saw).
Drill/driver.
Screwdriver.
Measuring tape.
Pencil.
Clamps.
Sanding block or power sander.
Staple gun (for upholstery).
Scissors or rotary cutter (for fabric).
Sewing machine (optional, for cushion cover).

Step 1: Planning and Cutting the Wood First, sketch out your bench design and determine the overall dimensions (length, width, height). This will help you calculate the amount of lumber you need. Once you have your measurements, cut the wood pieces according to your plan. Common pieces include:

Bench sides (2 pieces)
Bench front and back (2 pieces)
Bench seat support (2-4 pieces, depending on length)
Bench seat (plywood or solid wood)
Back panel (optional, plywood or solid wood)

Step 2: Assembling the Bench Frame Begin assembling the frame by attaching the sides to the front and back pieces using wood glue and screws. Use clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries. Ensure the frame is square. Then, attach the seat supports to the inside of the frame, again using glue and screws. These supports will hold the bench seat.

Step 3: Attaching the Bench Seat and Back Panel Place the bench seat (plywood or solid wood) on top of the frame and secure it to the seat supports with screws. If you're adding a back panel, attach it to the back of the frame using glue and screws. Make sure the panel is flush with the top edge of the frame or extends slightly beyond it, depending on your design.

Step 4: Sanding and Finishing Once the frame is assembled and the seat/back panel are attached, sand all surfaces of the bench to smooth out any rough edges and prepare it for finishing. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits. After sanding, wipe down the bench with a clean cloth to remove any dust. Apply your chosen finish (paint, stain, or varnish) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the finish to dry completely.

Step 5: Creating the Cushion Measure the dimensions of the bench seat to determine the size of your cushion. Cut the cushion foam to the appropriate size. If you want a softer cushion, wrap the foam with upholstery batting before covering it with fabric. Cut the fabric to a size that allows for seam allowances (at least 1 inch on all sides). You can either create a simple envelope-style cushion cover or sew a more fitted cover with a zipper or buttons. Use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the underside of the cushion, pulling it taut as you go.

Step 6: Attaching Hooks Decide where you want to place the hooks on the back panel (or directly onto the bench frame if you didn't include a back panel). Measure and mark the locations for the hooks. Drill pilot holes and then screw the hooks into place.

Step 7: Final Assembly and Placement Place the cushion on the bench seat. Now, your storage bench with a cushion and hooks is complete! Find the perfect spot for it in your entryway, mudroom, or hallway, and enjoy the added storage and seating.

Congratulations! You've successfully built your own storage bench. This project not only provides functional storage and seating but also adds a personalized touch to your home. Enjoy your handiwork!

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