How to make a boot bench

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Introduction

This handy boot bench can be made in just a day. It is constructed in a typical DIY fashion i.e. it avoids complicated joints which might be too tricky for the less seasoned woodworker.

Level of expertise required: If you can comfortably ripA cut lengthwise along a board that also runs with the grain. (As opposed to cross-cut.) woodTimber, lumber. The hard fibrous lignified substance under the bark of trees (cut down lengthwise) with a circular power saw, then you should be able to undertake this project.

This particular bench was constructed outside on a picnic table under a tarpaulin on a rainy day, so it goes to show you do not necessarily need an elaborate work shed.

Minimum power tool requirements: Circular power saw, jig-saw, drill. (Mind you, a chop saw would be handy.)
Of course you will also need the usual basic hand tools which are: handsaw, pencil, measuring tape, hammer, nailA short nail with a large flat head used for securing roofing felt, plasterboard, sheet metal to wood etc. setHow much the teeth are angled out on a circular saw blade., large square and a couple of clamps.

Nails and/or screws: We have used a mixture of nails and screws in this project. Nails are used for the most part as they can be set-in and the nail holes easily filled if painting or staining is required. Screws are used in places that require a bit of extra holding power and are generally only used in less conspicuous places.

About the wood dimensionsAny of the three linear measurements, length, breadth and depth.. All dimensions are given in both MetricMillimeter measurements. (mmAbbreviation for millimeter which is a metric unit of length equal to one thousandth of a meter. 25.4 mm equals one inch.) and ImperialStandard. Feet and inch measurements. (inches). The size (width and thickness) of the wood referred to throughout this project is the actual sizeThe finished (dressed) size as opposed to the nominal size of a piece of wood.. That is the size of the lumberAny of the framing wood. when it has been dressedSurfaced; planed; smooth; even surface; gauged., planed and/or seasoned. When the wood has been dressed, planed and/or seasoned it is then called the ‘actual size’ which is the true size. Before the lumber has been dressed, planed and/or seasoned it is called the ‘nominal size’. For example: 50mm x 25mm (1″ x 2″) when dressed may become 40mm x 18mm (3/4″x 1 1/2″) actual size.

Below are the plan drawings and cutting list with a drawing of most of the required pieces.
Under the drawings are descriptions along with dimensions of all the pieces that are in the plans.

The instructions are on successive pages.

Below is a description of all the pieces of wood including sizes, lengths and amounts.
Make sure that the wood you use is suitable for exterior use. Also, if you use wood that is a different size to that stated below, make any necessary adjustments to the plans.