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Building a beautiful farmhouse bench doesn’t have to take hours or require a massive budget. In a recent project, Peter shared how he turned a single 2×10 board into a stunning bench, selling each for $75 bare or $100 when painted and stained. This straightforward build, completed in under an hour, is perfect for beginners or seasoned woodworkers looking to batch out profitable projects. Here’s a breakdown of the process and how you can replicate it.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Efficient Use of Materials: The bench uses just one 2×10 board, maximizing profitability and minimizing waste.
- Quick Build Time: The project takes less than an hour to construct, making it ideal for batching multiple benches.
- High Resale Value: With a simple stain and paint finish, these benches can sell for $100, proving their marketability.
- Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward cuts and assembly make this a perfect project for new woodworkers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Farmhouse Bench
Materials and Tools Needed:
- One 2×10 board
- Table saw with a miter sled
- Brad nailer or screws
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
- Stain and paint (optional)
Cut the Board:
- Measure and cut your 2×10 into four pieces:
- One at 34 inches (top of the bench)
- One at 28 inches (bottom shelf)
- Two at 17 inches (legs)
Angle the Edges: 2. Adjust the table saw to a 22.5° angle. Use this setting to cut the edges of the 28-inch piece and the two 17-inch pieces. These angled cuts will allow the pieces to align seamlessly during assembly.
Prepare the Pieces: 3. Sand the cuts to smooth out rough edges. For the legs, ensure both pieces are identical by aligning them after cutting.
Assemble the Frame: 4. Mark 7 inches in from each side of the 34-inch top piece. Use these marks as guides for attaching the angled legs. 5. Apply wood glue to the ends of the legs, spreading it into the grain for better adhesion. Clamp the legs to the top piece, aligning them with the 7-inch marks. 6. Secure the legs with brad nails or screws.
Attach the Bottom Shelf: 7. Mark 2 inches up from the bottom of each leg. Align the bottom shelf (28-inch piece) with these marks. 8. Glue and secure the shelf in place with brad nails or screws.
Finish the Bench: 9. Let the glue dry overnight for maximum stability. The following day, sand the entire bench, starting with 120 grit and progressing to 220 grit for a smooth finish. 10. Stain the top and bottom shelf and paint the legs for a classic farmhouse look. In Peter’s example, he used honey walnut stain and white paint as per a customer request.
Optional Customization:
- Sell bare benches for $75.
- Add paint and stain to increase the value to $100.
Why This Bench is a Great Project
This project combines simplicity, speed, and profitability. With just a few tools and one board, you can create a stylish, functional piece that appeals to farmhouse design enthusiasts. Whether for personal use or resale, this bench is a winner.
Final Thoughts
Peter’s method for crafting farmhouse benches demonstrates how woodworking can be both enjoyable and lucrative. With a bit of creativity and a few tools, anyone can produce these high-demand benches. Why not try making one today? Who knows, you might just find your next best-seller.