Kitchen Cabinets

23 DIY Patio Furniture Plans

Transform your outdoor space into a relaxing oasis with these 23 DIY patio furniture plans. Creating your own patio furniture is an enjoyable project that allows you to add personal flair and save money. With the right materials, tools, and instructions, you can build durable, stylish furniture to enjoy for years to come.

Introduction

DIY patio furniture is a budget-friendly alternative to buying pricey outdoor pieces. By making it yourself, you can choose unique designs to reflect your taste and lifestyle. This comprehensive guide features foolproof plans for classic pieces like patio tables, chairs, sofas, and more. We cover a range of build options, from easy beginner furniture to more advanced carpentry projects. With simple household tools and readily available lumber and supplies, you can build personalized, high-quality furnishings. Read on for expert tips to create comfortable, long-lasting patio furniture you’ll love.

Things to Consider Before Starting

  • Design: Look at photos and sketches to choose furniture with the right proportions and style for your space. Consider how many people you want to seat.
  • Materials: Outdoor furniture requires weather-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, and teak. Pine and fir work for more protected areas.
  • Hardware: Stainless steel hardware won’t corrode. Galvanized and coated screws also resist rust.
  • Tools: You’ll need basic DIY tools – a saw, drill, sandpaper, clamps, and more. A sander, jigsaw, and router make the job easier.
  • Time: Building quality furniture takes time. Make sure to allocate ample work hours for your project.
  • Skills: Most projects here are beginner-friendly, but some require more carpentry experience. Match your abilities to the right plans.

How to Build Patio Furniture

Follow these general steps for a successful DIY patio furniture build:

  1. Select plans suitable to your skill level and needs.
  2. Gather all necessary supplies – wood, hardware, tools, and protective finishes.
  3. Carefully review plans and instructions before starting.
  4. Take safety precautions – work gloves, eye protection, etc.
  5. Cut lumber according to measurements.
  6. Sand edges and surfaces thoroughly before assembly.
  7. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting.
  8. Assemble furniture tightly using waterproof adhesive and hardware.
  9. Sand again and finish with protective sealer or paint if desired.
  10. Add weatherproof cushions or pillows for comfort.
  11. Place your handcrafted furniture outdoors and enjoy!

With the right approach, you can build durable, comfortable patio furniture customized to your taste. Now let’s dive into 23 DIY plans for outdoor chairs, tables, benches, sofas, and more so you can create your ideal backyard retreat!

1. Simple Outdoor Chair

This straightforward Adirondack chair only requires basic tools and materials for an easy beginner build.

Supplies

  • Cedar boards
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor wood screws
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood sealer/stain

Steps

  1. Cut wood pieces according to cut list measurements.
  2. Sand edges and surfaces smooth.
  3. Attach seat slats and front/back supports with wood glue and screws.
  4. Attach side supports and seat back.
  5. Sand again before finishing.
  6. Seal or stain wood to protect from weathering.
  7. Add waterproof cushions for comfort.

This simple chair build is a great first project. Customize the size and add your own personal flair!

2. Patio Coffee Table

This rectangular coffee table provides a spot for snacks and drinks right alongside your outdoor seating.

Supplies

  • 1×4 cedar boards
  • Circular saw
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor wood screws
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood sealer

Steps

  1. Cut boards to the specified tabletop and leg dimensions.
  2. Sand boards until smooth.
  3. Attach tabletop boards side-by-side using wood glue and screws.
  4. Attach the leg assemblies to the underside of the tabletop.
  5. Sand any rough edges. Apply preferred sealer.
  6. Add an umbrella hole for shade if desired.
  7. Enjoy coffee and conversations at your new DIY table!

Customize the size or shape of this versatile patio coffee table design.

3. Above-Ground Planter Bench

Double your seating and gardening space with this dual-purpose planter bench made from simple 2×4 lumber.

Supplies

  • 2×4 boards
  • Circular saw
  • Drill
  • Wood glue
  • Deck screws
  • Waterproof liner
  • Soil

Steps

  1. Cut boards according to measurements for bench frame.
  2. Assemble frame tightly using screws.
  3. Cut and secure top boards and trim front panel board.
  4. Line interior with waterproof liner.
  5. Fill bottom half of bench with soil for flowers or plants.
  6. Add cushions on soil for comfortable seating.
  7. Get creative choosing pretty flowers and foliage to fill your DIY planter bench!

This project combines functionality and style for your patio. The planting area brings lovely greenery while the bench offers seating.

4. Pallet Sofa

Upcycle free shipping pallets into this shabby chic outdoor sofa for economical, eco-friendly furniture.

Supplies

  • 3 shipping pallets
  • Jigsaw or circular saw
  • Sander
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor screws
  • Fabric/cushions

Steps

  1. Break down pallets with pry bar. Remove unusable boards.
  2. Cut pallet wood to desired sofa dimensions.
  3. Smooth rough edges with sander. Arrange into sofa frame.
  4. Screw and glue boards together securely.
  5. Add cushions and waterproof cover fabric.
  6. Add side table from extra pallet wood if desired!

Customize the size and shape of this pallet sofa – get creative with your design! The distressed wood makes a stylish boho-chic statement.

5. Simple Single Bench

This beginner woodworking project yields a handsome one-person bench with a decorative slatted back.

Supplies

  • Cedar lumber
  • Jigsaw
  • Sander
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor screws
  • Exterior wood finish

Steps

  1. Cut pieces to preferred size per cut list.
  2. Smooth wood edges and surfaces with sander.
  3. Assemble seat frame and attach center support brace.
  4. Affix decorative slat back piece using glue and screws.
  5. Seal bench wood with protective outdoor stain/finish.
  6. Add waterproof seat cushion for comfort.

This single bench works wonderfully as end-of-bed seating or tucked into a patio corner. For extra flair, add corner trim pieces or carved decorative accents.

6. Classic Park Picnic Table

For backyard BBQs and potlucks, build this traditional picnic table with attached benches.

Supplies

  • Cedar or redwood boards
  • Pocket screws or wood screws
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor wood finish/sealer

Steps

  1. Cut boards for tabletop, seats, and frame per cut list.
  2. Sand all wood pieces smooth.
  3. Assemble tabletop with pocket screws or wood screws. Attach outer frame.
  4. Fasten seat boards to supports using screws/glue.
  5. Connect table and seats tightly with lateral braces.
  6. Finish table with protective outdoor sealant if desired.
  7. Enjoy summer meals and memories at your homemade picnic table!

Add your personal touches like carving initials on the tabletop or painting it a fun bright color.

7. Modern Modular Patio Sectionals

Create this contemporary sectional seating with modular cubes from cedar or redwood.

Supplies

  • 1×4 and 1×6 lumber
  • Pocket screws
  • Wood glue
  • Brad nails
  • Sander
  • Outdoor fabric

Steps

  1. Cut wood pieces for cube structures and side tables according to plans.
  2. Smooth wood edges and surfaces with sander.
  3. Assemble modular cubes tightly using glue, brad nails, and pocket screws.
  4. Affix side tables to some cubes if desired.
  5. Use weatherproof fabric or cushions to cover cubes.
  6. Arrange cubes into preferred sectional configurations.
  7. Re-arrange for versatility as needed – great for small patios!

This adaptable patio sectional design works well for condos and apartments. Mix and match fabric patterns or colors to add visual interest.

8. Rustic Log Chair

For a frontier-inspired look, make this unique log chair using real wood branches.

Supplies

  • 3-4 log chair limbs with branches, 6-12″ diameter
  • Hand saw or chainsaw
  • Power sander
  • Twine
  • Outdoor wood sealer

Steps

  1. Saw logs/branches to workable chair-sized lengths.
  2. Debark and sand logs smooth. Keep bark accents if desired.
  3. Arrange and stand logs upright as seat, backrest, and arms.
  4. Lash logs together tightly with twine. Trim ends.
  5. Apply protective sealant if not using weather-resistant tree species.
  6. Add a rustic wood pillow for comfort and style.

With the right homestead-chic cabin or farmhouse, this natural log chair makes a charming addition to your patio furnishings.

9. Rectangle Picnic Table

Gather friends and family around this basic 6-foot picnic table with detachable benches.

Supplies

  • Cedar or redwood boards
  • Pocket screws
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor wood stain

Steps

  1. Cut lumber for tabletop, seats, and supports.
  2. Sand boards smooth and round edges slightly.
  3. Attach tabletop boards together edge-to-edge with glue/screws.
  4. Assemble end frames and connect stretcher boards.
  5. Attach assembled frames to tabletop with glue and screws.
  6. Attach seat boards to create benches with hardware.
  7. Finish table and seats with outdoor sealant if desired.
  8. Enjoy summer barbecues and meals outside!

Size this rectangular picnic table design to fit your space and entertaining needs.

10. Raised Garden Bed

Grow vegetables, herbs, or flowers in this sturdy cedar raised garden bed with built-in corner seats.

Supplies

  • 1×6 cedar boards
  • 2×6 boards for corner legs
  • Brad nails
  • Wood glue
  • Stain/sealer

Steps

  1. Cut all boards according to cut list measurements.
  2. Assemble side panels and affix corner legs using glue and nails.
  3. Attach front/back boards between side assemblies.
  4. Line inside of bed frame with landscape fabric if desired.
  5. Fill with soil mix suitable for your plants.
  6. Stain and seal the wood or let weather naturally.
  7. Sit back and enjoy gardening from the built-in corner seats!

Customize the size and height of this raised bed to fit your space. Add wheels for mobility or extra planting boxes.

11. Curved Deck Bench

Enjoy views from your deck or porch with this curved cedar bench and optional planter box.

Supplies

  • 1×4 cedar boards
  • Deck screws
  • Circular saw
  • Jigsaw
  • Drill
  • Exterior wood glue

Steps

  1. Cut bench slats and trim boards according to measurements.
  2. Use jigsaw to cut curved front bench board.
  3. Round bench board edges with sander.
  4. Arrange slats and screw into place with deck screws.
  5. Attach decorative trim boards using exterior wood glue.
  6. Create matching planter box if desired.
  7. Apply clear wood sealer yearly to protect cedar bench.
  8. Add colorful cushions and enjoy the scenery in comfort!

This curved bench fits perfectly on a rounded deck or porch. The optional planter box matches nicely while adding greenery.

12. Pallet Couch

Upcycle shipping pallets into this easy-to-build outdoor sofa on a budget.

Supplies

  • 3 large shipping pallets
  • Jigsaw or circular saw
  • Sander
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor screws
  • Waterproof cushions

Steps

  1. Disassemble pallets with pry bar. Remove unusable boards.
  2. Cut pallet wood with saw for frame and trim boards.
  3. Arrange and assemble pallet wood into couch frame.
  4. Smooth with sander and attach trim with glue/screws.
  5. Add thick cushions and waterproof cover fabric to finish.
  6. Arrange alongside pallet coffee tables and chairs for a complete patio living room set!

This eco-friendly pallet couch is affordable, providing plenty of comfy seating for family and guests.

13. Potting Table from Pallets

For the avid gardener, this potting table made from pallets has plenty of storage and work space.

Supplies

  • 2 shipping pallets
  • Circular saw
  • Power sander
  • Outdoor wood glue
  • Wood screws
  • Exterior wood stain

Steps

  1. Disassemble pallets with pry bar. Keep usable boards.
  2. Cut boards to desired size per diagram plans.
  3. Smooth pallet wood with power sander.
  4. Assemble tabletop, legs, shelves according to plans.
  5. Secure tightly using exterior wood glue and screws.
  6. Seal wood with protective outdoor stain if desired.
  7. Fill shelves with potting supplies and get planting!

With a large work surface and storage below, this potting table simplifies gardening tasks! Add locking casters for easy mobility.

14. Pallet Sofa with Center Table

Construct an easy 3-piece patio sectional with recycled shipping pallets and a center coffee table.

Supplies

  • 3 large pallets
  • Circular saw
  • Power sander
  • Exterior wood glue
  • Outdoor wood screws
  • Cushions

Steps

  1. Break down pallets with pry bar and remove unusable boards.
  2. Cut pallet wood to size for sofa and table.
  3. Sand pallet wood smooth. Arrange boards.
  4. Assemble sofa frames and affix center tabletop with glue and screws.
  5. Screw on table legs and any trim boards.
  6. Add cushions and waterproof cover fabric to finish.
  7. Arrange right-angled sofas with center table in between and enjoy your new pallet patio furniture set!

This easy pallet project yields a cozy conversation area for any backyard.

15. Octagon Picnic Table

For family picnics and barbecues, build this octagon picnic table with a center cutout for the umbrella pole.

Supplies

  • Cedar or redwood boards
  • Exterior wood screws
  • Power drill
  • Outdoor wood glue
  • Exterior wood stain

Steps

  1. Cut out lumber pieces according to the plans for tabletop, braces, legs, etc.
  2. Drill pocket holes if using pocket screws.
  3. Sand all wood smooth and round edges slightly.
  4. Assemble tabletop first using glue and screws. Then attach inner apron and braces.
  5. Attach outer apron and legs with exterior screws.
  6. Seal wood with outdoor stain/sealer if desired.
  7. Add umbrella to the center pole hole and enjoy summer fun!

The octagon shape of this picnic table design allows for more seating. Stain it a bright color for a fun pop of patio pizzazz!

16. Pallet Adirondack Chairs

These classic Adirondack chairs made from pallets have laid-back style and eco-friendly appeal.

Supplies

  • 3 large shipping pallets
  • Jigsaw or circular saw
  • Power sander
  • Exterior wood glue
  • Outdoor screws
  • Waterproof fabric

Steps

  1. Disassemble pallets with pry bar. Remove unusable slats.
  2. Cut pallet wood to size with circular saw per chair diagrams.
  3. Smooth pallet slats with power sander.
  4. Assemble chair frame pieces with exterior wood glue and screws.
  5. Attach slat backrest and seat securely.
  6. Add colorful waterproof seat cushion and matching throw pillow.
  7. Apply outdoor sealant yearly to protect pallet wood chairs.

These easy pallet chairs lend farmhouse style or coastal charm to your patio. Paint, stain, or whitewash them to reflect your personal taste.

17. Child’s Outdoor Table and Stools

For arts, crafts, or meals al fresco, build this kid-height table and stools set.

Supplies

  • 1×4 cedar boards
  • Circular saw
  • Power drill
  • Wood glue
  • Outdoor screws
  • Sandpaper
  • Clear exterior wood sealer

Steps

  1. Cut wood pieces according to measurements.
  2. Round off any sharp edges with sandpaper.
  3. Assemble tabletop using exterior wood glue and screws.
  4. Attach apron boards around tabletop perimeter.
  5. Connect legs to apron with more screws.
  6. Assemble simple stool frames and seats.
  7. Seal table and stools with waterproof finish if desired.
  8. Let kids enjoy arts, crafts, or snacks outside!

This pint-sized patio table and stool set is sized just right for kids to play and create.

18. Outdoor Storage Coffee Table

Hide patio essentials inside this practical coffee table with lockable storage on casters.

Supplies

  • Cedar boards
  • Table

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