Building a tree bench might not be an everyday thought, but imagine a perfect weekend project. Picture a delightful spot to sit and relax, nestled under the cooling canopy of a grand old oak tree.
Perhaps it is an elm, a maple, a sumac, or an apple tree. This project is achievable wherever you reside, as a tree is simply a tree.
You can even construct one around the base of a palm in a tropical setting, or a large mesquite, or a weeping willow for a truly secluded bench. Consider how many guests could comfortably sit on a bench crafted around a majestic California sequoia.
Explore your own outdoor space. What types of trees grace your property?
Which ones provide ample daytime shade? Now, discover the eleven fantastic designs presented here.
11 DIY Plans
Discover the most popular free plan first!
1. The Classic Hexagonal Plan
This tree bench requires an intermediate DIY skill level. It is not an ideal undertaking for complete beginners, but comprehensive and reliable instructions are available. The estimated cost for this project is $770, with a completion time of approximately 20 hours.
All aspects are thoroughly detailed, from crafting templates and making cuts to selecting the wood type and applying stain. Everything needed is clearly outlined, ensuring ample guidance even if the project initially appears complex.
The design involves a significant amount of drilling, and the finished DIY project will endure for a considerable duration. Gather your tools, acquire the necessary supplies, and apply some dedicated effort. Soon, you will have an impressive tree bench gracing your backyard.
2. Pallet Wood Tree Bench
This tree bench is constructed entirely from pallet wood, making it considerably simpler and more budget friendly. It is an excellent choice if you are a relatively new DIY enthusiast.
No specialized tools are truly essential. The primary requirement involves acquiring four to six pallets.
A crucial detail to remember is to build the bench several inches away from the tree trunk, allowing space for the tree to grow. Never overlook this aspect, as trees are living organisms that continuously expand.
A helpful video tutorial is also provided for this DIY project. One phase of the project that demands effort is disassembling the pallets, which proves more challenging than anticipated but is well worth it.
Subsequently, the task involves constructing chairs from the dismantled pieces, following a hexagonal main design. If this sounds intricate, rest assured it is not. Take a closer look at the steps involved.
3. Hexagon Cedar Tree Bench Plan
This hexagonal cedar bench presents one of the most appealing styles observed. Cedar wood, once stained, consistently reveals a rich, opulent appearance and withstands outdoor elements exceptionally well. The bench’s base is actually constructed from redwood, with the seat and back crafted from cedar.
This particular endeavor is not recommended for novice DIY enthusiasts. Accumulate experience with a few simpler projects before attempting this magnificent design. It involves numerous angled cuts, a skill challenging for beginners to master.
If your DIY expertise is at an intermediate level, consider undertaking this project. While it features many cuts, a comprehensive downloadable plan and video guides are available.
As indicated, the bench does not even require placement around a tree. You could instead position a pot filled with beautiful flowering plants in its center.
4. California Redwood DIY Tree Bench Plan
This stunning tree bench offers seating while simultaneously safeguarding the tree, functioning as a protective barrier around the trunk. This hexagonal design appears to be a favored shape in this context.
The plan is visually appealing due to the chosen wood, specifically California Redwood. Its distinct rich red hue lends an air of sophistication to this DIY creation.
All necessary instructions are provided, broken down into manageable steps for easy execution. These include cutting the inner seats, cutting the middle and outer seats, adding supports and joins, leveling the bench, and finally, applying a sealer. This serves as an excellent resource for learning to construct a tree bench, and a rather impressive one at that.
5. DIY Tree Bench Made out of Chairs
This concept is perhaps the most ingenious idea of all. Commencing this project with existing chairs instead of raw lumber significantly reduces the amount of work required. This is not only a straightforward DIY endeavor but also an excellent way to repurpose old chairs.
If you are replacing kitchen or dining room chairs and are unsure what to do with the old ones, consider this. Simply paint them, perhaps white for a classic look or vibrant colors for a more playful aesthetic, then assemble them as illustrated. This gives them a new lease on life.
Even if purchasing a used set of kitchen chairs from a yard or garage sale is necessary, your expenses will remain low. The estimated cost for constructing this design using old chairs is roughly $100. After removing the chair seats, only a small amount of additional timber and paint is needed to proceed.
This project is remarkably simple, making it an ideal DIY undertaking for beginners. It also boasts the advantage of requiring less time. Therefore, keep an eye out for six used high back kitchen chairs and begin envisioning your new DIY tree bench.
6. The Simple Tree Bench Plan
This represents one of the most uncomplicated DIY tree bench projects you will encounter. These plans are perfectly suited for beginner level DIY enthusiasts. The accompanying illustrations clearly demonstrate its simplicity, signaling that it is time to retrieve your tools.
A downloadable PDF is available, offering the convenience of a printed hard copy in addition to on screen instructions. The list of necessary materials and tools is relatively brief. Apart from the wood, most items should already be present in your workshop.
The instructions and illustrations are highly detailed, yet the design itself is remarkably simple, featuring only two planks and one leg per section. It is difficult to find a more straightforward approach. This bench will provide ample space under your favorite tree for those leisurely Sunday afternoons.
7. DIY Tree Bench with Fancy Details
A crucial initial step involves determining the tree’s diameter. The creator of this project began by measuring the circumference, which requires recalling your high school mathematics. Once the diameter is established, add a few extra inches to account for tree growth and necessary clearance.
This plan meticulously details every component, including aprons, labels, and feet. It is easy to follow, and the author’s engaging voice enhances the experience, as a project like this should be enjoyable. There is immense satisfaction in crafting something with your own hands that your family can gather around, especially beneath the shade of a beloved tree.
Do not be intimidated by the numerous cuts involved; while not a simple project, it is certainly achievable. Observe the meticulous attention to detail, even incorporating brackets on the legs for an elegant touch.
Key insights gained include the importance of committing your plan to paper before starting and utilizing right angles for easier construction. You too can create a bench perfect for family gatherings.
8. The Square Tree Bench Plan
This bench, surprisingly, is crafted from an old wooden fence, utilizing reclaimed material. Its origin is remarkably disguised. Numerous recycling and repurposing DIY projects are featured, offering an excellent resource for budget friendly home improvement endeavors.
This specific example involved a fence damaged during a windstorm, which was then transformed into a tree bench around a maple in the yard. Despite the wood initially being suitable for outdoor use, applying a sealer is still a wise measure.
The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, providing a list of all necessary tools and materials. Ensure that the wood chosen will withstand various weather conditions, as the original fence did for a considerable period before its collapse.
9. The Beginners DIY Plan
This plan offers an ideal weekend project: a straightforward tree bench destined to provide many years of enjoyment for you and your household. Its construction is so simple that even a novice can complete it, likely within a single weekend.
A vital reminder is to always construct outdoor DIY projects using quality wood, such as pine or cedar. Since the bench will be exposed to the elements, a durable wood choice ensures greater longevity.
Another essential tip is to employ waterproof glue, as your creation will experience rain and potentially snow, depending on your location. The initial step, as always, involves building the frame. By this point, your decision to include back support or not will depend on your available time, budget, and specific requirements.
When preparing to finalize your project, ensure proper treatment. Multiple coats of stain will offer crucial protection against adverse weather conditions.
This safeguard extends beyond snow, sleet, and rain, as even sun exposure can harm wood. Applying several layers of high quality stain and sealer guarantees your work endures for years of cherished family moments.
10. Tree Bench with a Planter Box
This design incorporates a planter box with integrated seating. The redwood box encircles an alder tree, providing a family tree bench in the backyard. This box serves to protect the tree, offers a seating area, and introduces both texture and complementary colors to the outdoor space.
The initial step involved marking out the dimensions on the ground, a helpful practice for most projects. Subsequently, support poles were anchored directly into the earth.
Pressure treated wood was used as siding for the redwood, providing protection from moist soil and extending the project’s lifespan. Remember to sand and stain the redwood to enhance its beautiful color.
11. No Power Tools DIY Plan
Here is the eleventh design. This concept is simple, utilizing readily available materials and fundamental tools. The creator suggests that completion is possible even with hand tools, eliminating the need for power tools.
A six sided design will significantly enhance your backyard or patio with minimal expense and effort. It creates an excellent shaded area for family and friends to gather. Adding a few cushions and bringing out that long awaited paperback will complete the inviting setting.
These eleven complimentary DIY plans should provide everything necessary to construct your tree bench. Whether you are a beginner seeking a simple task or an experienced builder with a workshop full of power tools, consider giving it a try.
