Build a DIY wooden bench with cubby storage easily! This project is beginner-friendly, uses common tools, and adds smart storage to any space. Get ready to organize and sit in style with this fun, achievable woodworking guide.
Ever look at that empty spot by your entryway or in your mudroom and think, “I wish I had a place to sit and put my shoes, and maybe stash them away too”? You’re not alone! Clutter can pile up fast, and a place to perch while you wrangle those boots is a lifesaver. Building a functional and good-looking piece of furniture can seem like a huge task, especially if you’re just starting out in woodworking. But don’t you worry! Today, we’re going to break down how to build a fantastic DIY wooden bench with cubby storage. It’s simpler than you might think, and the results? Pure genius for tidying up your space.
We’ll guide you through each step, from picking out your lumber to the final coat of finish. You’ll be amazed at how a few pieces of wood and some basic tools can transform into a custom bench that perfectly fits your needs. Get ready to boost your DIY confidence and create something truly useful!
Table of Contents
Why a DIY Wooden Bench with Cubby Storage is a Must-Have
A wooden bench with built-in cubby storage isn’t just furniture; it’s a smart solution. It tackles two common household needs in one beautiful package: a comfortable spot to sit and a designated place for all those things that tend to end up on the floor. Think shoes, bags, kids’ toys, pet supplies – the list goes on!
Beyond the practical benefits, building it yourself offers a unique sense of accomplishment. You get to choose the dimensions, the type of wood, and the finish that best complements your home’s decor. Plus, it’s often much more budget-friendly than buying a similar piece pre-made. This project is a perfect way to dip your toes into woodworking, using simple techniques that deliver impressive results.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials
Before we start cutting, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Having your tools and materials ready will make the building process smooth and enjoyable. We’re focusing on keeping this beginner-friendly, so you likely have many of these items already, or they are easy to find.
Essential Tools for Your Project
These are the workhorses for this build. Don’t worry if you don’t have every single specific model; similar alternatives will work great!
- Safety Glasses: Non-negotiable! Protect those eyes.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate cuts.
- Pencil: For marking your cuts.
- Miter Saw or Circular Saw: For straight, clean cuts. A miter saw is ideal for precise angles, but a circular saw with a guide can also get the job done. If you’re just starting, consider getting your lumber cut at the hardware store.
- Drill/Driver: For pre-drilling holes and driving screws.
- Drill Bits: Including a countersink bit for a cleaner look.
- Sander (Random Orbit or Block Sander) and Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grit): To smooth out all surfaces.
- Clamps: Useful for holding pieces together while you secure them.
- Optional: Level, speed square.
Materials You’ll Need
The beauty of this DIY bench is you can customize it. Here’s a common list of lumber sizes. You can find these at any home improvement or lumber store.
Note: Prices and availability may vary.
| Item | Quantity | Typical/Suggested Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 Lumber | ~6-8 boards (8ft each) | Actual dimensions are ~1.5″ x 3.5″ | For the frame and supports. Pine is common and affordable. |
| 1×12 Lumber | ~3-4 boards (8ft each) | Actual dimensions are ~0.75″ x 11.25″ | For the bench top, bottom, and dividers. Plywood can also be used for dividers if preferred. |
| Wood Screws | 1.5″ and 2.5″ | Various sizes | Outdoor/construction screws resist rust and hold better. |
| Wood Glue | 1 bottle | Standard wood glue | Adds strength to joints. |
| Sandpaper | Assorted grits (80, 120, 220) | Sheets or discs | For preparing surfaces to finish. |
| Wood Finish | 1 can/quart | Paint, stain, or polyurethane | Your choice for protection and appearance. |
| Optional: Wood filler | 1 container | To fill nail holes or imperfections. | Useful for a smoother finish. |
Remember to factor in the cost of finishing materials like stain or paint. For a more durable finish, consider exterior-grade polyurethane. If you’re aiming for comfort, don’t forget a cushion!
Planning Your Bench: Dimensions and Design
Every great DIY project starts with a solid plan. For this bench, we’ll aim for a common size that works well for most entryways or mudrooms, but feel free to adjust based on your space.
Our target dimensions will be roughly 48 inches long, 18 inches tall, and 15 inches deep. This size provides a comfortable seating height and depth, with the cubbies being about 13-14 inches deep, perfect for most shoes.
Here’s a breakdown of the main components:
- Bench Top: This is the seating surface.
- Base Frame: The sturdy structure that supports the top and holds the cubbies.
- Cubby Dividers: These create the individual storage compartments.
- Bottom Panel: This forms the floor of your cubbies.
A common design involves a simple box frame with vertical and horizontal dividers within. This creates a series of open cubbies. When planning cuts, measure twice, cut once! It’s always better to have a slightly longer piece you can trim than a piece that’s too short.
Step-by-Step: Building Your DIY Wooden Bench with Cubby Storage
Let’s get building! Follow these steps carefully, and remember to work safely. If anything feels unclear, don’t hesitate to re-read or look up a quick video on the specific technique, like how to make a strong joint with glue and screws.
Step 1: Cutting Your Lumber
Accuracy here makes everything else easier. Double-check your measurements before making any cuts.
- For the Base Frame (using 2x4s):
- Two pieces at 45 inches (for the long sides)
- Two pieces at 12 inches (for the short sides)
- For the Cubby Dividers (using 1x12s):
- Two vertical dividers: Cut to the height of your bench minus the thickness of the top and bottom panels. If your bench is 18″ tall and you use 0.75″ thick wood for the top/bottom, then 18″ – 0.75″ – 0.75″ = 16.5″. So, two pieces at 16.5″ long.
- One horizontal divider: Cut to 14.25 inches (This is the internal width of your bench frame, which is 15″ depth minus the thickness of the two 0.75″ side pieces of the frame).
- For the Bench Top (using 1x12s):
- One piece at 48 inches. You might want to join a couple of 1x12s if you want it wider than 11.25 inches, or use a wider board if available. We’ll stick to a single 1×12 for simplicity.
- For the Bottom Panel (using 1x12s):
- One piece at 45 inches (This will fit inside the 2×4 frame).
Step 2: Assembling the Base Frame
This is the foundation of your bench. It creates the outer box and provides a solid base for the cubbies and top.
- Lay out your four 2×4 pieces (two 45-inch, two 12-inch) to form a rectangle.
- Ensure the corners are square. A speed square is helpful here.
- Apply wood glue to the ends of the shorter pieces where they will meet the longer pieces.
- Pre-drill pilot holes through the long pieces into the ends of the short pieces. This prevents the wood from splitting.
- Drive 2.5-inch wood screws to secure the corners. Use at least two screws per corner.
Pro Tip: For extra strength and a cleaner look, you can use pocket hole joinery. This requires a pocket hole jig, but it creates very strong, hidden joints.
Step 3: Attaching the Bottom Panel
This panel will sit inside the base frame and form the floor of your cubbies.
- Slide the 45-inch 1×12 piece inside the assembled 2×4 frame. It should fit snugly.
- Apply wood glue to the bottom edge of the 2×4 frame.
- From the outside of the 2×4 frame, pre-drill and countersink pilot holes down into the 1×12 bottom panel.
- Use 1.5-inch wood screws to secure the bottom panel to the frame every 6-8 inches.
Ensure the panel is flush with the bottom of the 2×4 frame. This creates a neat, finished look from below.
Step 4: Installing the Cubby Dividers
Now, let’s create those handy cubbies!
- Vertical Dividers: Place the two 16.5-inch vertical divider pieces inside the frame. They should rest on the bottom panel and butt up against where the horizontal divider will go. Mark their positions.
- Horizontal Divider: Place the 14.25-inch horizontal divider. It will connect the two vertical dividers and span the width of the bench’s interior. Mark its position.
- Securing Dividers:
- Apply wood glue liberally where the dividers meet the bottom panel and the frame.
- From the outside, pre-drill and countersink pilot holes through the 2×4 frame into the ends of the horizontal divider. Then, secure it with 1.5-inch screws.
- To attach the vertical dividers, you can drive screws from the bottom panel up into the vertical dividers, and from the inside of the frame down into the vertical dividers. Using glue is crucial here.
Make sure your dividers are plumb (perfectly vertical) and square before they are fully secured. Clamps can help hold them in place while you work.
Step 5: Attaching the Bench Top
The seating surface! This should sit on top of your assembled base and cubbies.
- Position the 48-inch 1×12 piece on top of the base frame. Ensure it overhangs evenly on the front and back, and is flush on the sides.
- Apply wood glue to the top edges of the 2×4 frame and the top edges of the cubby dividers.
- From the top, pre-drill and countersink pilot holes down into the 2×4 frame and the tops of the vertical dividers.
- Use 1.5-inch wood screws to secure the top. Space them about 6-8 inches apart.
For a professional finish, use wood filler to cover all screw holes. Let it dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions before sanding.
Step 6: Sanding and Finishing
This is where your DIY bench really starts to shine!
Start with 80-grit sandpaper to remove any inconsistencies or rough spots. Progress to 120-grit for a smoother feel, and finish with 220-grit for a silky-smooth surface. Don’t forget to sand all surfaces, edges, and corners. A good rule of thumb is to always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth or a damp rag. Then, apply your chosen finish. If you’re staining, apply it according to the product directions, letting it penetrate and then wiping off the excess. If you’re painting, apply thin, even coats. For protection, especially on the bench top, a few coats of polyurethane or a clear sealant are highly recommended. Allow adequate drying time between coats.
Customization Ideas for Your Bench
This basic design is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add Doors or Drawers: For a cleaner look, you could add simple doors or drawers to some of the cubbies. This requires a bit more advanced DIY, but the storage potential is huge.
- Upholstered Top: Create a more comfortable seating experience by adding a custom cushion. You can buy one or make your own by cutting foam and covering it with durable fabric.
- Wider Bench: Need more seating or more cubbies? Simply adjust the length of the 2×4 base frame pieces and the bench top. You might need to adjust the divider lengths as well.
- Different Wood Species: While pine is budget-friendly, consider hardwoods like oak or maple for a more luxurious and durable bench.
- Backrest: For added comfort, you could add a simple backrest using more 2x4s and plywood.
The possibilities are endless! Think about your specific needs and your home’s style when deciding on customizations.
Choosing the Right Nailer for Future Projects
If this project has you excited about woodworking, you might be wondering about the best tools to invest in next. Nailers are game-changers for speed and efficiency in DIY projects. For a build like this bench, while screws are great, a nail gun can speed up assembly significantly, especially for attaching the top or securing the base frame.
Here’s a quick rundown of common nailer types:
- Brad Nailer: Great for trim work and delicate projects. Uses very thin nails.
- Finish Nailer: Ideal for attaching trim, molding, and smaller pieces of furniture. Nails leave a smaller hole that’s easy to fill.
- Framing Nailer: For heavy-duty construction, like building decks or framing walls. Too powerful for furniture projects like this.
- Stapler: Useful for upholstery and attaching fabric.
For a project like this bench, a finish nailer or even a brad nailer could be very helpful for attaching the bench top or securing trim pieces if you add them. Many modern nailers are cordless (battery-powered), offering great portability and convenience. Popular brands like Dewalt, Ryobi, and Milwaukee offer excellent options for DIYers. Always remember to consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for safe nail gun operation.
FAQ: Your Beginner Woodworking Questions Answered
Q1: How long will this DIY wooden bench with cubby storage take to build?
For a beginner, this project can typically take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on your familiarity with tools and your pace. This includes cutting, assembly, sanding, and finishing.
Q2: What kind of wood is best for this bench?
Pine is an excellent choice for beginners because it’s affordable, lightweight, and easy to work with. For a more durable and premium look, you could opt for hardwoods like oak, maple, or poplar, but they are typically more expensive and harder to cut.
Q3: Do I really need to pre-drill holes?
Yes, absolutely! Pre-drilling pilot holes is crucial, especially when working with softer woods like pine or when driving screws near the edge of a board. It prevents the wood from splitting and makes driving screws much easier.