Tired of your bland backyard? Wish you had a cozy spot to relax under the shade of your favorite tree? Well, ditch the boring store-bought benches and build your own! DIY Tree Bench Plans are here to save the day, giving you the freedom to create a unique and personalized masterpiece that perfectly fits your outdoor oasis.
5 DIY Tree Bench Plans: Easy & Detailed Instructions
Before: You’ve got a beautiful tree in your yard, but it’s just sitting there, lonely and unused. You’re dreaming of a cozy spot to relax, read a book, or enjoy a cup of coffee, but you’re not exactly a pro with power tools.
After: Imagine a charming bench nestled against the trunk of your tree, inviting you to linger and savor the beauty of your surroundings. You built it yourself, using readily available materials and simple instructions.
Bridge: Building a DIY tree bench doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning, some basic tools, and a dash of creativity, you can transform your yard into a personalized sanctuary.
Let’s get started!
Plan #1: The Classic Tree Bench
This plan is the foundation for many DIY tree benches, offering a simple yet sturdy design. You’ll need a few 2x4s, some wood screws, a circular saw, and a drill.
Materials:
- (2) 2x4s, 8 feet long (for the seat supports)
- (2) 2x4s, 6 feet long (for the legs)
- (1) 2×4, 6 feet long (for the seat)
- Wood screws
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the 2x4s: Use the circular saw to cut the 8-foot 2x4s in half. This will create two pieces that are 4 feet long.
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Assemble the legs: Place the two 4-foot pieces of 2×4 (seat supports) parallel to each other, about 12 inches apart. Attach the two 6-foot 2x4s (legs) to the seat supports using screws, forming a rectangular frame.
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Attach the seat: Place the 6-foot 2×4 (seat) across the top of the frame, aligning it with the edges of the seat supports. Secure it with screws.
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Finish: You can leave the bench as is, or add a coat of wood stain or paint to enhance its appearance.
Plan #2: The Curved Tree Bench
This plan offers a more elegant design, with a gently curved back that wraps around the tree. It requires a bit more precision, but the results are worth the extra effort.
Materials:
- (2) 2x4s, 8 feet long (for the seat supports)
- (2) 2x4s, 6 feet long (for the legs)
- (2) 2x4s, 4 feet long (for the back supports)
- (1) 2×4, 8 feet long (for the seat)
- (1) 2×4, 6 feet long (for the back)
- Wood screws
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the 2x4s: Use the circular saw to cut the 8-foot 2x4s in half, creating four pieces at 4 feet. Cut the 6-foot 2×4 (back) in half, creating two pieces at 3 feet.
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Assemble the legs: Place the two 4-foot pieces of 2×4 (seat supports) parallel to each other, about 12 inches apart. Attach the two 6-foot 2x4s (legs) to the seat supports using screws, forming a rectangular frame.
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Create the back supports: Cut each of the 4-foot 2x4s in half. You now have four pieces that are 2 feet long. Using a jigsaw or a hand saw, carefully curve the edges of the four 2-foot pieces. These will become the back supports, creating a rounded shape.
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Attach the back supports: Place the curved back supports along the back of the frame, perpendicular to the seat supports. Secure them with screws.
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Attach the back: Place the two 3-foot pieces of 2×4 (back) on top of the back supports, forming a continuous curve. Secure them with screws to the back supports.
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Attach the seat: Place the 8-foot 2×4 (seat) across the top of the frame, aligning it with the edges of the seat supports. Secure it with screws.
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Finish: You can leave the bench as is, or add a coat of wood stain or paint to enhance its appearance.
Plan #3: The Rustic Tree Bench
This plan embraces a more natural look, using reclaimed wood or rough-cut lumber to create a rustic charm. It’s a perfect fit for gardens with a relaxed, country aesthetic.
Materials:
- (2) 2x4s, 8 feet long (for the seat supports)
- (2) 2x4s, 6 feet long (for the legs)
- Reclaimed wood or rough-cut lumber for the seat (approximately 6 feet long)
- Wood screws
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the 2x4s: Use the circular saw to cut the 8-foot 2x4s in half, creating two pieces at 4 feet. Cut the 6-foot 2x4s (legs) in half, creating two pieces at 3 feet.
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Assemble the legs: Place the two 4-foot pieces of 2×4 (seat supports) parallel to each other, about 12 inches apart. Attach the two 3-foot 2x4s (legs) to the seat supports using screws, forming a rectangular frame.
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Attach the seat: Place the reclaimed wood or rough-cut lumber (seat) across the top of the frame, aligning it with the edges of the seat supports. Secure it with screws.
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Finish: You can leave the bench as is, or add a coat of wood stain or paint to complement the rustic look.
Plan #4: The Trellis Tree Bench
This plan adds a touch of vertical interest to your bench, creating a trellis that can be used to grow climbing plants. A beautiful and functional addition to your garden!
Materials:
- (2) 2x4s, 8 feet long (for the seat supports)
- (2) 2x4s, 6 feet long (for the legs)
- (1) 2×4, 6 feet long (for the seat)
- (4) 2x4s, 4 feet long (for the trellis)
- Wood screws
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the 2x4s: Use the circular saw to cut the 8-foot 2x4s in half, creating four pieces at 4 feet. Cut the 6-foot 2x4s (legs) in half, creating two pieces at 3 feet.
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Assemble the legs: Place the two 4-foot pieces of 2×4 (seat supports) parallel to each other, about 12 inches apart. Attach the two 3-foot 2x4s (legs) to the seat supports using screws, forming a rectangular frame.
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Attach the seat: Place the 6-foot 2×4 (seat) across the top of the frame, aligning it with the edges of the seat supports. Secure it with screws.
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Create the trellis: Place the four 4-foot 2x4s vertically, about 6 inches apart, across the back of the bench. Attach them to the seat supports using screws, creating a trellis structure.
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Finish: You can leave the bench as is, or add a coat of wood stain or paint to enhance its appearance.
Plan #5: The Tree Swing Bench
This plan combines the classic tree bench with the whimsical appeal of a swing, adding a touch of playful fun to your yard.
Materials:
- (2) 2x4s, 8 feet long (for the seat supports)
- (2) 2x4s, 6 feet long (for the legs)
- (1) 2×4, 6 feet long (for the seat)
- (2) Heavy-duty chains
- (2) Strong eye bolts
- Wood screws
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the 2x4s: Use the circular saw to cut the 8-foot 2x4s in half, creating four pieces at 4 feet. Cut the 6-foot 2x4s (legs) in half, creating two pieces at 3 feet.
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Assemble the legs: Place the two 4-foot pieces of 2×4 (seat supports) parallel to each other, about 12 inches apart. Attach the two 3-foot 2x4s (legs) to the seat supports using screws, forming a rectangular frame.
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Attach the seat: Place the 6-foot 2×4 (seat) across the top of the frame, aligning it with the edges of the seat supports. Secure it with screws.
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Attach the chains: Drill two holes near the center of the seat and attach the eye bolts. Thread the chains through the eye bolts and secure them to a sturdy branch on the tree. Ensure that the chains are strong enough to support the weight of the bench and multiple people.
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Finish: You can leave the bench as is, or add a coat of wood stain or paint to enhance its appearance.
Tips for Building Your DIY Tree Bench:
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Measure twice, cut once: Accuracy is key when building a tree bench. Double-check your measurements before cutting your wood.
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Use sturdy wood: Choose lumber that is strong and durable, especially for the seat and legs.
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Securely fasten your pieces: Use enough screws to ensure that the bench is stable and will hold its shape.
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Protect your wood: Apply a coat of wood stain or paint to protect your bench from the elements and enhance its longevity.
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Seek inspiration: Browse online for pictures and ideas for DIY tree benches to find the design that best suits your style and needs.
You’ve got this!
With these plans and helpful tips, you are well on your way to creating a beautiful and functional DIY tree bench for your backyard. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of building something unique with your own two hands. And remember, you can always add your own personal touches to make your bench truly special.
