Call to arms
Using the grid diagram as a guide, trace the pattern of the armrest onto your stock. First drill 3/8"-dia. x 3/4"-deep dowel holes into what will become the back ends of the armrests, then cut out the curved shape with a bandsaw or jigsaw. Make sure that the flat end of each armrest fits within the back profile with at least 1/4" of extra wood on each side. Smooth the curves with a drum sander, then rout a 1/2" roundover profile on the edges. Sand the wood smooth, then prepare the tusk-shaped armrest supports. Drill single 3/8"-dia. x 3/4"-long dowel holes in both ends of each tusk, cut these parts to shape and sand them.
The armrests are joined to the back support using dowels. Centre the armrest on the back support, tight against the backrest. Use dowel centres to transfer the locations of both holes. Also prepare dowel holes to join the armrest supports to the armrests, centred on their “fists.”
Dry-fit each armrest and armrest support, then join these two to the backrest assembly. You'll need to cut a slight angle to the base of the armrest support as the seat slat is in the curve of the seat supports. Roll a small pencil stub on the slat along the base of the armrests to trace the required mating angle. Shave enough off the supports to achieve the joint angle and adjust to make a perfect fit. Assemble each armrest support into an armrest and push them tight against the seat back. Use a dowel centre again to locate the holes required in the seat slat. Drill, glue and clamp the armrests and supports to the chair assembly.
The grand finale
Cut four cedar 1 1/4" x 2 1/2" leg pads from scrap. Screw these to the bottom ends of the legs to stop moisture from wicking into the end-grain. Replace them should they rot or become damaged.
Finish-sand the seat up to 150-grit paper, then sand all of the end-grain with 180- and 220-grit. This closes the wood's pores, making the finish on the end-grain more consistent. Finish the bench with your choice of exterior-grade wood finishes. I used outdoor clear Varathane for a glossy shine.
After the work is done, grab your favourite beverage and book, then invite your nearest and dearest to relax with you on your new loveseat.
Read more in Woodworking Projects and Outdoor Furniture
7 Comments
I really like this bench is the drawings. It would look great at our camper
I really like this bench is the drawings. It would look great at our camper
I'm just new to this, but can't seem to find if this project appeared in any printed edition of the CHW magazine ? Are the plans available for download anywhere?? Looks like a nice project though and would love to give it a try if I could get more details on it like dimensions and material list, etc.
I too would love to build this bench but can't find the plans!!!!! Where are they?????????
OOPPSSS!!!! Never mind found them
Could yoy please help me find the plans Iam just learning how to use a computer Also learning how to type I guess your never to old to learn at 77yrs old
Could you please help me find the plans Iam just learning how to use a computer Also learning how to type I guess your never to old to learn at 77yrs old