I'm pretty new to woodworking but wanted to give this a shot. I will say, my price was probably closer to $50 and definitely took me longer than 30 minutes (closer to 3 hours)...but, it turned out so great. Super sturdy, looks amazing. Something I'm awfully proud of. Thanks!
In Florida - it was about 45$ as of summer of '23. But if you go to a big box store and buy a metal bench, they are not as cool, and $$$. With that said, I have build two styles of this bench - the more traditional one, and then this one... This is definitely the better option. Oh - if you build more than one, it truly is quick (40 minutes) for me...
Just completed this yesterday and it was great fun. It’s my first venture ever in woodwork and the result is so gratifying, I’m already looking forward to the next project. In the meantime, I’m gonna enjoy a few cups of coffee on my brand new bench. Thank you Rogue Engineer!
I saw your video last year and noticed the neighbor putting parts of his old deck on the curb for trash. I salvage several pieces of 2X8 and cut out enough parts for a bench and a seat (just a narrower version of the same design) Now I have found more salvaged lumber to make another bench, Thank You so much for sharing. Remember to recycle...
My wife and I homeschool our kids and I needed a wood project for my 14 year old. I found this and bought the materials. With a little help and about 45 minutes, he made a beautiful bench! Thank you.
I just got done building the bench. I am a beginner and your directions were easy to follow. My wife was surprise it came out so awesome. Now my kids have a nice bench to sit on when they wait for the bus in the morning. Thank you
Just finished this project for my wifes surprise Valentine's gift. Plus gave me an excuse to buy a cordless circular saw. It turned out great and she loved it. Instructions were easy to follow. Thank you!!!
I watched the video this morning. Printed off your instructions and jumped in the truck to buy lumber. The wife and I love how it turned out. It did take me about five minutes to figure out that the 40 degree cut goes to the floor but I marked the leg cross measurements and figured it out pretty quickly. I will be making more of these. Super solid. Thank you.
I built this bench yesterday. It took me longer than 30 minutes but I go slow so that I don’t make mistakes. I love the simplicity of the design and how sturdy the bench is. It’s a beautiful project and I wish I needed three more because it was so fun and satisfying to build. Thanks for the video and the plans.
I made this today turned out great, but here in Australia we use the metric system. I did the conversions and anyone wondering what to use here this is what I used. 4 of these will do the job, 50mm x 200mm x 2400mm treated pine Sleepers from Bunnings. As they are not compressed treated I had to dress them. I used an electric planer and sander, they turned out great. You can do all measurements in imperial to make the legs, then use 1200mm to do the seats and back rest. Hope this helps.
Made a modified version - 6' long instead of 4'. I was able to get it all out of 3 12' 2x8s, so it was still cheap. Though the seat slats are long enough that they flex a little, so I am going to add a small brace that will connect the two of them in the middle to both reduce the flex and make sure they flex in unison (so it doesn't feel as funny when you sit down).
I built this type bench back in 2009. I made 3 of them. I used 2x8s for the legs and 2x10s for the seat and back rest. Less lumber used that way. Also, instead of screws, I used lag bolts. Made it sturdy as heck. I still use mine to this day.
Thanks! This will be my gift to our 4 children at Christmas. Short story, we are giving each other hand made gifts this year. My only modification was to use lag bolts to hold the two base boards, as some of us are a bit heavier, and I thought it would help make the bench last longer. You are awesome for giving us this plan and great instruction!
I built a pair and have had several positive comments already. I did not use treated wood since I was putting them under a porch roof. I stained them which took longer than the build but the result was gratifying. My 70+ year old body told me that 2x8 was at the limits in terms of weight for a project. (another reason I chose not to use treated wood.) My back muscles have not yet recovered but at least I have somewhere to sit while they do.
The only thing I'd add is a 1/4" carriage bolt on each side frame, besides the four deck screws. My wife had a guy down in town build her a couple of similar chairs (I was building the 16x36' greenhouse that summer), and the side frame soon collapsed on one, even screwed (3 screws per side) and glued. I put it back together and added the carriage bolts, and they've been out in the weather- summer and winter- here in Colorado, for years. These are nice looking chairs.
Took me a bit longer than 30 minutes using a table saw and I've never used a speed square before but still not long at all. I built two, you can do two with 7 pieces of lumber. The last cut of the plans leaves enough left to do it again for the 2nd bench.
I built this bench - turned out great - put it down beside the river worked great - however I didn't chain it to a tree and the river swelled during a rain and it was gone. I'm going to built another and chaining this time - great video
Thanks for the video and plans! How the heck do 3 people so far not like this video? Any beginner can do it, it's a piece of usable furniture you can make yourself, the parts and tools are inexpensive. It's brilliant!
I have made a few of these. The only thing I did differently was to use 1/4 inch exterior grade lag screws, which makes it almost strong enough to park a car on.
wow, a leopold bench. i saw the video of a man who built one of these years ago. i built four of these. now after seeing this makes me want to build another one. just type in leopold bench and there you go. these things are great to have.
Using a piece of insulation below your work is BRILLIANT. A hint though...when marking length with a pencil make a V instead of a line as the vertex of the V is exactly where the measure point is. Helpful vid, Thanks.
Just wanted to say I appreciate you. I just bought a house before the pandemic ( perfect timing) and I can’t seem to put my tools down. During this stay at home order, projects like this have kept me busy, sane, and I’ve learned a ton. Plus my family loves the value added to our new home. Thanks
I built 6 of these. 2 of them I made 8’ long. They sold quickly, I also painted and stained a couple and they looked great! One customer orders 6 of the 4’ bench. Thank you for they vid! You explained everything perfectly.
@@kroperez6761 Thanks. You too. Here is another tip: Football or Soccer logos....put them on your bench and paint with team colors. I live in a University town where football is taken very seriously. On Saturday, I sit in my truck with several benches on the road to the stadium, I sell out every time. 😆
The wife here. Our little french bulldog always steals hubby's kitchen chair, so he wanted a bench for the two of them. I found your video. I was a little confused because math is not my strong suit, and I'm a tactile learner so I got lost a few times. Because this piece is going in my kitchen, I've super sanded the seat and front edge real smooth so those two don't get hurt. Thanks for the video but unfortunately I didn't have the luxury of skipping over to your pinned link. Hope hubby likes his father's day gift!! Thank you kindly, Ms. Jo.
I just made this. The only trip up was with the short boards. I cut 40⁰, 40⁰, and then 40⁰. My fault. The next one will go much smoother. Thanks for putting this out there.
Good design. Thanks. I’ve made a lot of outdoor furniture using treated wood. Holds up well, but some parts may begin to fail after perhaps five years exposed to the elements. I’ve been able to prevent that by spreading a good outdoor glue like Titebond III in the wide space between the legs before screwing the legs together.
Just finished the bench. Firstly thankyou very much for the video (that I’ve had to watch around 30 times due to lack of experience). My measurements were a bit wayward and had to readjust a few times. Glad I read the comments last night about predrilling. A massive achievement for me as a novice DIYer. Thanks a lot.
I just built this bench and am very happy with it. It took me a lot longer than 30 minutes, but I'm not a carpenter, and running in the house at every step to see how to do the next step didn't help. It's comfortable and very solid. It is just what I needed. For the back, my pieces didn't hold in place like yours did, so I just turned the bench on its side and it was very simple
Thank you for these plans - I tried to make my own dimmensions and plans and it took forever, these were just fine. I made your bench with a couple of tiny mods and it looks FAB. I'm nearly 60 and started woodwork recently in my spare time. I like it so much I'm going to make another. I will say - it takes A LOT longer than 30 minutes to make. With me being a a bit slow, I reckon it took most of a day to make. Thanks for the plans. PS wood in the UK is pricey and I guess it cost in the region of £50 to make...but you end up with a really heavy/sturdy bench. £50 quid would only buy you a flimsy thing from the shops, this is way better.
C:\Users\Mark\Pictures\2020-02-17 Leopold Bench\Leopold Bench 013.JPG Hello Jamison, I just discovered your channel. Thank you for the great plans! I built this on Saturday. I added glue to all the joining surfaces for added strength. It took me about 3 hours to complete. I will stain it with a nice water based stain. It is a very comfortable design. And this will make a great gift for many of our friends.
Hi! Thank you for this. I built it and love it, but it took me SOOOO much longer. I used non-pressure treated wood because I stained, painted and sealed it.
Nice job on the step by step instructions! Most videos just show ppl building things without any kind of instructions. I just got done building one! Looks great and was $38. Lowe's up the 2x8 up to 8.88
This popped up in my feed today. Spent $35 on four 2x8x8s an hour later. Tonight I have a newly built bench. About 2 hours. Easy as it looks. Thanks for the video!
I built this today with a different pressure treated wood. Took me about an hour and then spent the rest of the afternoon giving it a nice stain and spar urethane gloss coat. Going to let it sit for a few days before putting it out. Came out awesome. Thanks for this build! Total cost of the wood was around 120.00. Ouchie. But satisfying to have something I made with my own hands.
I like the simplicity. I think I will try to make a variant with just (through) mortise and tenon joinery, not because it it faster (it is not) but because it is more fun. A no screw leopold bench for makers with too much time and only handtools.
Thanks man! Took me way more than half an hour but this is the first thing I ever build. I feel tough AF now. btw for all europeans 2x8x8 doesn't mean the wood is 2 inches thick, I used 30 mm thick planks and that worked really well.
What does it mean? I’ve been confused with trying to match what’s available to these plans? 47mm seemed far too big but would be closest to these dimensions
@@ksird 2x8x8 is the nominal dimensions.. The actual dimensions are 1 1/2 x 3 1/2.. Lumber used to be actuap 2x4 inches but now theyre 1/2 narrower.. Mm would be 38x89x2439 mm (converted it with google)
I made mine with the kids - not 30 mins but that’s me!!!! Thanks for sharing the video - love the bench and making the memories. (Side note, now I have people asking me to make one for them).
wow, a leopold bench, these have been around for ever, my dad had a woodworking magazine in the 1980s with this plan in them, when I was a teen i made so many of these and sold them.
It really isn'T Mess of toxic plaste airborne waste all around the shop, your lungs and the outside. Use 2 x 4 to support near your cuts and at the end of the piece. Imagine if millions of people did that how many tons of micro plastic it would be. Absolutely wasteful and disgusting. Great project though
@@brakiska thick cardboard or glue a bunch of box together micro paper in the air with nutrition in it good for earth once it lands stores let you have em for free so they don’t go to landfill well Dollar general does
I built this today and my kids and wife love the way it came out. I will say two things 1 when shopping for Lumber remember to look for the straightest peices I forgot that (rook) and 2 I spent way longer then 30 mins lol. But thanks we will be enjoying this for years to come.
i've made 3 of these in the past few years. these benches are cheap, easy to make, sturdy, they look good. if those qualities sound appealing to you, this is your new bench
@@scottryker4888 I love orbital sanding but I seem to leave scars on my wood. I'd love a belt sander. A huge one. I'd be smoothing all the surfaces I could find. I think you made the right choice on untreated. That stuff can seep for a long time. Do you have a video of your project?
Nice design...i'd add two angle braces to it to stabilize it...seems like it'll sway (right-left) on the screws holding it. Left over little block pieces might be enough material to offer you the angle bracing under the seat.
Love the simplicity of your bench and the fact I personally don't need to buy any extra tools to do it. I am really considering having a crack at this and it's cheap even here in the UK. Great video well done!
Привет из Сибири! Спасибо за идею, сделал себе такую лавку. Была проблема небольшая с переводом из дюймов в мм, а так же углы у ножек лавки. Но теперь лавка стоит у дома, радует маму ) P.S. обошлась в 15$
This is a great sitting bench. My son build 3 for his beneficiary for his Eagle project. The plans call for 4 - 2" x 8" x 8' boards. with careful planning you can get a longer bench out of 3- 2" x 8" x 10'. Unless your a skilled wood craftman, figure 2 plus hours for build time.
Love the bench. Very quick to build. Only thing I would recommend, through experience, is use some exterior wood glue in addition to the screws when attaching overlapping pieces. You won't notice it the first year, but it will get a bit wobbly over time or use. Great addition to our cottage fire pit!
Nice build. Simple instructions and tools. Easy enough and cheap enough for beginners. I would not trust the wood screws in the legs. Over time the wood will dry out and when used will cause directional movement of the joints. The wood around the screws will eventually deteriorate, aggravated by the directional forces placed upon it by people getting up getting down shifting body weight etc. You can evidence this by checking out hand rail installs that were done with only wood screws. Over time the rails work themselves loose. Requiring replacement. To reinforce this is simple. Two bolts with nuts and washers drilled through each side. This would reinforce this for a long time and allow for tightening.
Thanks, and there are plenty of mods that could be done to help improve the longevity and make it your own. Galvanized carriage bolts are a great way to beef it up. I was just trying to keep the price down for this example.
I did it! Worked out great....loved it so much I went back to Lowes and bought 3 10' 4x8's. With the left over piece I am building a 5 ft. bench the same way. I know some of you engineering gurus might want to give me some pointers..and I may make one even longer using a support in the middle...like 8 ft long. PS My Porter Cable Lithium Ion had a HARD TIME cutting treated lumber and I bought a RockWell 4 1/2 Compact Circular saw..and that motor scooter got the job done...really nice cuts..hope to get a diablo blade soon.
The 5 footer was just as nice as the 4' Bench. I also added nice bolt headed lag screws to the top bench boards and one lower board, which give it a beefier look. Also, I found that when I put the top bench seat on..the front one..I bounced up and down on it a bit..to make sure the fit was square...before I screwed it down. I put it together partly and it felt a bit wobbly..and that is NOT how this should feel...its NUCLEAR STRIKE PROOF..if its done right. Also, when i bought 3 10' 4x8's I had just enough to do 2 more 38'' long legs left over after completion......geez..time to build ANOTHER one..:) everyone likes these,,,, do you have a picnic table plan??
Brother, it's truly a blessing to see men who aren't afraid of their profession of Christ. I have really enjoyed your content today. I'm getting ready to make this bench. Note. I'm going to useing treated 2×8 and untreated 2×6. What do you think about that?? I will be sanding and using a natural wood sealer for outside use.? Comments..Wade Out, thanks again.
I would suggest using bolts and nuts. If one uses carriage bikes and rounded (cap or acorn) nuts, it can look quite nice. A bit more secure than screws, I would say. PS: Good project. Nicely done video.
Was super hyped to build one of these soon, just priced up the timber £30 per 8ft length in the UK crazy how different timber prices are across the pond.
Remember to seal those open ends you cut on treated wood ,cause you see when he cuts the wood .The treatment isn't getting through the wood entirely.This is only if no one has said this
First THANKS! I have the same saw and it cuts terrible. I will upgrade the blade to the Diablo. I doubt that I would do this in 30 mins. Between watching the video and making sure you measure twice and cut once I would probably do it in 1h. Still very impressive. Thanks you so much
Interesting video. Always wanted to know more about speed squares, thank you. Please consider a video on what else can be accomplished using speed squares and DYI’s!
I'm from UK and I've just bought enough timber to do two benches and I'm going to build a decent size table too and I was about £180 . Delighted , a small project I'm planning for my wifes 50 th so we can have nice BBQ.
This bench is awesome. I make cross leg tables. I'm gonna make a few changes to your design. I have desperately needed a park bench for my table. I'm gonna do dado cuts and lap joint the boards for a cleaner look for a indoor table.
Just built mine. Took a couple hours - worked on two sawhorses outside. We live on a 150 acre ranch, and we will set this one up at an overlook above our stream. Will be great to sit there in the wilderness, quietly, and watch the critters appear. Will be building many more of them and placing them around the ranch.
Foam is a great idea,thx,been using Diablo for 20 some years,lifetime carpenter here,all the people I have shown Diablo too,I should get some merch from the company..js..Diablo is the best by far for woodcutting says this 45 yr wood veteran.
Thank you for this video. I didn't have required planks, but I figured it out with smaller planks and I'm satisfied. Certainly I will try to do that bench again with bigger planks next time!
I like how you kept the tool list simple and easy for diyers. I saw a video called 3 simple diy woodworking projects. I disliked it because they all started with a cnc machine.
The first one I made took an hour. I used quarter inch plywood and made a template of pieces a very long time ago so all I need to do is place the template on my lumber and draw lines and cut. I have notes on the template of the degree of cuts. I have a jig to measure the 1.5" front hang over and the space between the seat boards. I make two an hour if I sand but three if I don't.
I haven't seen any of your videos,haven't even watched this one yet,but I saw the design of that bench in the thumbnail and based on it alone you earned my subscription
I just finished buildin mine today, took about 1 1/2 hours total from gathering tools and taking my time. Very easy build and i was surprised it fit my big butt, my girlfriend and our 4 year old comfortably. Gona leave it in the sun a few days to dry the wood a little then sand abd stain it. I used regular lumber as my bench is under a carport
I’ve read that you shouldn’t handle pressure treated wood without gloves. Is it safe to have this bench made of that material or is that a different kind of wood I’m thinking about?
Definitely took more than 30 minutes for me. I’m a total noob 🤣. Made one for my mother and mother in law for Mother’s Day. Thanks for the video. Great bench.
Thank you. This an ideal project for me and for my level of experience. Unlike other videos you give full step by step instructions. I will be making this seat this weekend!
How about a table to go with these benches. Reduced the bench by half to create single chairs, would be great to have a table made from the same 2x8's to go with them... up for the challenge?
All lumber has tripled (in the UK at least), due, not only to C-19; but, the industry's biggest timber growers agreeing to deliberately stockpile lumber, forcing the market up for all of them (the major growers) to gain. :(
![$30 Outdoor Bench with Back from 2x6s [Only 3 Tools and 30mins]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/IPq2ZpRN9Vw/mqdefault.jpg)
Full Plans: rogueengineer.com/diy-outdoor-bench-plans-with-back/
Awesome video!.
Would you ever consider making an update video showing how to add armrests to it?
Good stuff!!
Bro cut back on saying “you’re gonna wanna...”. Just say it. Instead of “Next up, you’re gonna wanna cut the end off’ just say “Cut the end off.”
It appears that you did not pre-drill prior to using the wood screws. why? I thought that was always recommended.
TonyCanones you don’t absolutely need to but it’s probably best to take the extra time and pre drill to prevent wood splitting.
I'm pretty new to woodworking but wanted to give this a shot. I will say, my price was probably closer to $50 and definitely took me longer than 30 minutes (closer to 3 hours)...but, it turned out so great. Super sturdy, looks amazing. Something I'm awfully proud of. Thanks!
Lumber prices have gone wayyyy up since this video was originally posted.
@@susanamundson2542 yea where I live Dallas, TX it will cost me $85 to build it now
The next one you build will take half the time!
@@AndyMorrisArt Yep. That's the estimate I came up with also.
In Florida - it was about 45$ as of summer of '23. But if you go to a big box store and buy a metal bench, they are not as cool, and $$$. With that said, I have build two styles of this bench - the more traditional one, and then this one... This is definitely the better option. Oh - if you build more than one, it truly is quick (40 minutes) for me...
The project cost me $63 at Lowes
Woods, screws, speed square
It took me about 1 hour to build it and it looks very nice!
Thank you!!!
About an hour is right. No way 1 hr. without help. Great plan and explanation though. Love mine.
Nice Job! But sure would take me more than 30 minutes! Takes me that long to get my tools and supplies together 🤣👍🏻
jajajajajajajajajajajaja AGREED!
That is exactly what I was thinking lol
I totally agree with ya! It takes me forever to get started! Lol
When you've built a bunch of them it gets faster. My record is 1 hour and 15 min to build 3.
@@fitnesslk Yes ! ! Just DO ITTTTT ! ! ! ! Cheers from Canada,Polar Bear country.
Just completed this yesterday and it was great fun. It’s my first venture ever in woodwork and the result is so gratifying, I’m already looking forward to the next project. In the meantime, I’m gonna enjoy a few cups of coffee on my brand new bench. Thank you Rogue Engineer!
I saw your video last year and noticed the neighbor putting parts of his old deck on the curb for trash. I salvage several pieces of 2X8 and cut out enough parts for a bench and a seat (just a narrower version of the same design) Now I have found more salvaged lumber to make another bench, Thank You so much for sharing. Remember to recycle...
In the U..K the timber is going to cost between £70 - £80 for 4 lengths of 2” x 8” (each at 3 metres). So it’s a little more than the 30$
I was quoted £80 ish from many places, so pleased to pick the timber up for £45 today at Travis Perkins
My wife and I homeschool our kids and I needed a wood project for my 14 year old. I found this and bought the materials. With a little help and about 45 minutes, he made a beautiful bench! Thank you.
That's awesome, thank you for teaching at home!
I just got done building the bench. I am a beginner and your directions were easy to follow. My wife was surprise it came out so awesome. Now my kids have a nice bench to sit on when they wait for the bus in the morning. Thank you
Good call! Glad to hear it!
did it take 30mins?
Really? Are you a mind reader or did you just build a chair instead and call it done?
Just finished this project for my wifes surprise Valentine's gift. Plus gave me an excuse to buy a cordless circular saw. It turned out great and she loved it. Instructions were easy to follow. Thank you!!!
You really wanted that circular saw, didn't you.....
I can tell you that we wives are well aware of this tactic 😊
@@marijoheitman2577 ...yep. So is mine !!!
I watched the video this morning. Printed off your instructions and jumped in the truck to buy lumber. The wife and I love how it turned out. It did take me about five minutes to figure out that the 40 degree cut goes to the floor but I marked the leg cross measurements and figured it out pretty quickly. I will be making more of these. Super solid. Thank you.
Thats awesome! Glad to hear it!
Great bench great job on video . Thanks
The angles don't matter, they are you preference as to seating position, as long as you screw them together set against a straight edge
Thanks Jason. I wondered that myself.
@@doggovision8765 Just follow the measurements.
I built this bench yesterday. It took me longer than 30 minutes but I go slow so that I don’t make mistakes. I love the simplicity of the design and how sturdy the bench is. It’s a beautiful project and I wish I needed three more because it was so fun and satisfying to build. Thanks for the video and the plans.
I made this today turned out great, but here in Australia we use the metric system. I did the conversions and anyone wondering what to use here this is what I used.
4 of these will do the job,
50mm x 200mm x 2400mm treated pine Sleepers from Bunnings. As they are not compressed treated I had to dress them. I used an electric planer and sander, they turned out great. You can do all measurements in imperial to make the legs, then use 1200mm to do the seats and back rest. Hope this helps.
Made a modified version - 6' long instead of 4'. I was able to get it all out of 3 12' 2x8s, so it was still cheap. Though the seat slats are long enough that they flex a little, so I am going to add a small brace that will connect the two of them in the middle to both reduce the flex and make sure they flex in unison (so it doesn't feel as funny when you sit down).
I built this type bench back in 2009. I made 3 of them. I used 2x8s for the legs and 2x10s for the seat and back rest. Less lumber used that way. Also, instead of screws, I used lag bolts. Made it sturdy as heck. I still use mine to this day.
Thanks! This will be my gift to our 4 children at Christmas. Short story, we are giving each other hand made gifts this year. My only modification was to use lag bolts to hold the two base boards, as some of us are a bit heavier, and I thought it would help make the bench last longer. You are awesome for giving us this plan and great instruction!
I built a pair and have had several positive comments already. I did not use treated wood since I was putting them under a porch roof. I stained them which took longer than the build but the result was gratifying. My 70+ year old body told me that 2x8 was at the limits in terms of weight for a project. (another reason I chose not to use treated wood.) My back muscles have not yet recovered but at least I have somewhere to sit while they do.
30 year framer/carpenter here, very well presented and instructed video!👍👍
Awesome!!🙂
The only thing I'd add is a 1/4" carriage bolt on each side frame, besides the four deck screws. My wife had a guy down in town build her a couple of similar chairs (I was building the 16x36' greenhouse that summer), and the side frame soon collapsed on one, even screwed (3 screws per side) and glued. I put it back together and added the carriage bolts, and they've been out in the weather- summer and winter- here in Colorado, for years. These are nice looking chairs.
Took me a bit longer than 30 minutes using a table saw and I've never used a speed square before but still not long at all.
I built two, you can do two with 7 pieces of lumber. The last cut of the plans leaves enough left to do it again for the 2nd bench.
I built this bench - turned out great - put it down beside the river worked great - however I didn't chain it to a tree and the river swelled during a rain and it was gone. I'm going to built another and chaining this time - great video
Thanks for the video and plans! How the heck do 3 people so far not like this video? Any beginner can do it, it's a piece of usable furniture you can make yourself, the parts and tools are inexpensive. It's brilliant!
Probably because of the lies in the title. 5 tools not 3 nd not 30 minutes
I have made a few of these. The only thing I did differently was to use 1/4 inch exterior grade lag screws, which makes it almost strong enough to park a car on.
wow, a leopold bench. i saw the video of a man who built one of these years ago. i built four of these. now after seeing this makes me want to build another one. just type in leopold bench and there you go. these things are great to have.
This is different than a Leopold bench. Similar, but a lot nicer looking
Using a piece of insulation below your work is BRILLIANT. A hint though...when marking length with a pencil make a V instead of a line as the vertex of the V is exactly where the measure point is. Helpful vid, Thanks.
AKA The Aldo Leopold bench ! Quite a history to it . Mr. Leopold was an early conservationist . Many versions exist of this bench .
Just got done. Started at 3:30 and finished at 6:30- phew! 108 degrees out right now- no shade.
Just wanted to say I appreciate you. I just bought a house before the pandemic ( perfect timing) and I can’t seem to put my tools down. During this stay at home order, projects like this have kept me busy, sane, and I’ve learned a ton. Plus my family loves the value added to our new home. Thanks
Impressive Your wife could do all the important stuff.
What pandemic?
I built 6 of these. 2 of them I made 8’ long. They sold quickly, I also painted and stained a couple and they looked great! One customer orders 6 of the 4’ bench.
Thank you for they vid! You explained everything perfectly.
Hi Alan, Can you give me an idea about how much I could charge for the 4’ and 8’ ? Appreciate your help
@@kroperez6761 yes $150 and $300 unfinished
More if you custom stain or paint.
@@alangoodwin1966 Awesome ! Good Luck with your new business
@@kroperez6761 Thanks. You too.
Here is another tip:
Football or Soccer logos....put them on your bench and paint with team colors. I live in a University town where football is taken very seriously. On Saturday, I sit in my truck with several benches on the road to the stadium, I sell out every time. 😆
Built one yesterday, took longer than 30min but it came out nicely. And yup 3 tools, impact driver came in handy! Thanks for the idea!
The wife here. Our little french bulldog always steals hubby's kitchen chair, so he wanted a bench for the two of them. I found your video. I was a little confused because math is not my strong suit, and I'm a tactile learner so I got lost a few times. Because this piece is going in my kitchen, I've super sanded the seat and front edge real smooth so those two don't get hurt. Thanks for the video but unfortunately I didn't have the luxury of skipping over to your pinned link. Hope hubby likes his father's day gift!! Thank you kindly, Ms. Jo.
Cutting lumber on insulation foam is a great idea. I'm definitely trying that.
I tried it today when I built this bench... I think it made a difference! Especially with the angled cuts using the circular saw...
I just made this. The only trip up was with the short boards. I cut 40⁰, 40⁰, and then 40⁰. My fault. The next one will go much smoother. Thanks for putting this out there.
Good design. Thanks. I’ve made a lot of outdoor furniture using treated wood. Holds up well, but some parts may begin to fail after perhaps five years exposed to the elements. I’ve been able to prevent that by spreading a good outdoor glue like Titebond III in the wide space between the legs before screwing the legs together.
That's a great idea. Some carriage bolts there would be a good addition as well.
I've found deck sealer works well as an inexpensive treatment on treated pine. Probably need to recoat after 3 or 4 years, but it helps a little.
Thanks man...made one ...this was my first wood project...had to use angular saw... very satisfying...took me 6hrs.
I made two benches ten years ago using a plan like this. Loved them so much that I modified the plan ,shorting for chairs.
I’ve made this bench as well and am starting to make two chairs from this build version with added arm rests to them.
Just finished the bench. Firstly thankyou very much for the video (that I’ve had to watch around 30 times due to lack of experience). My measurements were a bit wayward and had to readjust a few times. Glad I read the comments last night about predrilling. A massive achievement for me as a novice DIYer. Thanks a lot.
Only 30 times? I think I'm on 42. Made the cuts and it still confuses me as to assembly with the short and long legs. I'll get there.
I made 10 for my chapel. They went together in a day.... Thanks for the video.
That is awesome!
I just built this bench and am very happy with it. It took me a lot longer than 30 minutes, but I'm not a carpenter, and running in the house at every step to see how to do the next step didn't help. It's comfortable and very solid. It is just what I needed.
For the back, my pieces didn't hold in place like yours did, so I just turned the bench on its side and it was very simple
Thank you for these plans - I tried to make my own dimmensions and plans and it took forever, these were just fine. I made your bench with a couple of tiny mods and it looks FAB. I'm nearly 60 and started woodwork recently in my spare time. I like it so much I'm going to make another. I will say - it takes A LOT longer than 30 minutes to make. With me being a a bit slow, I reckon it took most of a day to make. Thanks for the plans. PS wood in the UK is pricey and I guess it cost in the region of £50 to make...but you end up with a really heavy/sturdy bench. £50 quid would only buy you a flimsy thing from the shops, this is way better.
C:\Users\Mark\Pictures\2020-02-17 Leopold Bench\Leopold Bench 013.JPG
Hello Jamison, I just discovered your channel. Thank you for the great plans! I built this on Saturday. I added glue to all the joining surfaces for added strength. It took me about 3 hours to complete. I will stain it with a nice water based stain. It is a very comfortable design. And this will make a great gift for many of our friends.
Hi! Thank you for this. I built it and love it, but it took me SOOOO much longer. I used non-pressure treated wood because I stained, painted and sealed it.
Nice job on the step by step instructions! Most videos just show ppl building things without any kind of instructions. I just got done building one! Looks great and was $38. Lowe's up the 2x8 up to 8.88
2x8x8 are $7.54 at HD.
Use galvanized carriage bolts on legs; counter-sunk galvanized hex lag screws for the back.
Outdoor durable.
I was in here looking for the obvious.
Coated deck screws are nice and all, but I got big people in my fam.
Good idea!
This popped up in my feed today. Spent $35 on four 2x8x8s an hour later. Tonight I have a newly built bench. About 2 hours. Easy as it looks. Thanks for the video!
Easy build. If I build one, I’m planning to use a round over bit to ease the edges at the top of the legs. I like this project a lot.
I actually used a chamfer bit on this one, off camera. Turned out really nice.
Rogue Engineer So, six tools!
I built this today with a different pressure treated wood. Took me about an hour and then spent the rest of the afternoon giving it a nice stain and spar urethane gloss coat. Going to let it sit for a few days before putting it out. Came out awesome. Thanks for this build! Total cost of the wood was around 120.00. Ouchie. But satisfying to have something I made with my own hands.
I like the simplicity. I think I will try to make a variant with just (through) mortise and tenon joinery, not because it it faster (it is not) but because it is more fun. A no screw leopold bench for makers with too much time and only handtools.
Thanks man! Took me way more than half an hour but this is the first thing I ever build. I feel tough AF now.
btw for all europeans 2x8x8 doesn't mean the wood is 2 inches thick, I used 30 mm thick planks and that worked really well.
What does it mean? I’ve been confused with trying to match what’s available to these plans? 47mm seemed far too big but would be closest to these dimensions
@@ksird 2x8x8 is the nominal dimensions.. The actual dimensions are 1 1/2 x 3 1/2.. Lumber used to be actuap 2x4 inches but now theyre 1/2 narrower..
Mm would be 38x89x2439 mm (converted it with google)
@@ksird us 32mm thick wood! That's what I did
@@Mixwell1983 Hahahahah sorry buddy. It's definitely not 2439 mm thick... xD
@@Mixwell1983 tq bro. I'm from Malaysia. Still studying in the dimensions measurements 😅. Now I got it
I made mine with the kids - not 30 mins but that’s me!!!! Thanks for sharing the video - love the bench and making the memories. (Side note, now I have people asking me to make one for them).
nb You are supposed to make it with 8” x 2”s and not your kids!! They wontbe strong enough to sit on doh
wow, a leopold bench, these have been around for ever, my dad had a woodworking magazine in the 1980s with this plan in them, when I was a teen i made so many of these and sold them.
Great tip about the foam board below! Also good one about using a speed square for a saw guide.
It really isn'T Mess of toxic plaste airborne waste all around the shop, your lungs and the outside. Use 2 x 4 to support near your cuts and at the end of the piece. Imagine if millions of people did that how many tons of micro plastic it would be. Absolutely wasteful and disgusting. Great project though
@@brakiska thick cardboard or glue a bunch of box together micro paper in the air with nutrition in it good for earth once it lands stores let you have em for free so they don’t go to landfill well Dollar general does
Does the 45 degree angle piece touch the ground or does the 40 degree piece touch the ground?
@@mahmoodkhan6623 I am having the same confusion. Please update on which one touches ground.
Built this over the weekend , nice tip on the Diablo blade. Old craftsman cut the wood like butter...excellent step by step video....nice job!
I built this today and my kids and wife love the way it came out. I will say two things 1 when shopping for Lumber remember to look for the straightest peices I forgot that (rook) and 2 I spent way longer then 30 mins lol. But thanks we will be enjoying this for years to come.
i've made 3 of these in the past few years. these benches are cheap, easy to make, sturdy, they look good. if those qualities sound appealing to you, this is your new bench
I made this bench and stained it a nice walnut. Placed it on the front porch. Only difference is I added bolts to the legs rather than screws.
Then you didn't follow the directions. How dare you expand as a person.
@@camcordernonsense5264 bruh lolol get the hell outta here!
@@scottryker4888
I can't! You used bolts!
@@camcordernonsense5264 oh yeah? Well guess what, I sanded everything smooth with an orbital sander! And I didn't use pressure treated lumber either!
@@scottryker4888
I love orbital sanding but I seem to leave scars on my wood. I'd love a belt sander. A huge one. I'd be smoothing all the surfaces I could find. I think you made the right choice on untreated. That stuff can seep for a long time. Do you have a video of your project?
Nice design...i'd add two angle braces to it to stabilize it...seems like it'll sway (right-left) on the screws holding it. Left over little block pieces might be enough material to offer you the angle bracing under the seat.
Love the simplicity of your bench and the fact I personally don't need to buy any extra tools to do it. I am really considering having a crack at this and it's cheap even here in the UK. Great video well done!
Привет из Сибири! Спасибо за идею, сделал себе такую лавку. Была проблема небольшая с переводом из дюймов в мм, а так же углы у ножек лавки.
Но теперь лавка стоит у дома, радует маму )
P.S. обошлась в 15$
I made this yesterday, and everyone loved it. I like that I don't have to have a bunch of tools to make it.
This is a great sitting bench. My son build 3 for his beneficiary for his Eagle project. The plans call for 4 - 2" x 8" x 8' boards. with careful planning you can get a longer bench out of 3- 2" x 8" x 10'. Unless your a skilled wood craftman, figure 2 plus hours for build time.
Love the bench. Very quick to build. Only thing I would recommend, through experience, is use some exterior wood glue in addition to the screws when attaching overlapping pieces. You won't notice it the first year, but it will get a bit wobbly over time or use. Great addition to our cottage fire pit!
I agree
I built one 8 years ago out of 2x4's, it's still as sturdy as the day I built it, and yes it sits out in the weather
Just built one of these. Nice!! Did decide it would be easier with an extra set of hands!!
Built today and looks great in woods beneath old oak.
Nice build. Simple instructions and tools. Easy enough and cheap enough for beginners.
I would not trust the wood screws in the legs. Over time the wood will dry out and when used will cause directional movement of the joints. The wood around the screws will eventually deteriorate, aggravated by the directional forces placed upon it by people getting up getting down shifting body weight etc.
You can evidence this by checking out hand rail installs that were done with only wood screws. Over time the rails work themselves loose. Requiring replacement.
To reinforce this is simple. Two bolts with nuts and washers drilled through each side. This would reinforce this for a long time and allow for tightening.
K
Thanks, and there are plenty of mods that could be done to help improve the longevity and make it your own. Galvanized carriage bolts are a great way to beef it up. I was just trying to keep the price down for this example.
I did it! Worked out great....loved it so much I went back to Lowes and bought 3 10' 4x8's. With the left over piece I am building a 5 ft. bench the same way. I know some of you engineering gurus might want to give me some pointers..and I may make one even longer using a support in the middle...like 8 ft long. PS My Porter Cable Lithium Ion had a HARD TIME cutting treated lumber and I bought a RockWell 4 1/2 Compact Circular saw..and that motor scooter got the job done...really nice cuts..hope to get a diablo blade soon.
The 5 footer was just as nice as the 4' Bench. I also added nice bolt headed lag screws to the top bench boards and one lower board, which give it a beefier look. Also, I found that when I put the top bench seat on..the front one..I bounced up and down on it a bit..to make sure the fit was square...before I screwed it down. I put it together partly and it felt a bit wobbly..and that is NOT how this should feel...its NUCLEAR STRIKE PROOF..if its done right. Also, when i bought 3 10' 4x8's I had just enough to do 2 more 38'' long legs left over after completion......geez..time to build ANOTHER one..:) everyone likes these,,,, do you have a picnic table plan??
Brother, it's truly a blessing to see men who aren't afraid of their profession of Christ. I have really enjoyed your content today. I'm getting ready to make this bench. Note. I'm going to useing treated 2×8 and untreated 2×6. What do you think about that?? I will be sanding and using a natural wood sealer for outside use.? Comments..Wade Out, thanks again.
I built 3 of these for my fire pit area. Exactly what I have been looking for. Thank you for sharing the plan and video.
I would suggest using bolts and nuts. If one uses carriage bikes and rounded (cap or acorn) nuts, it can look quite nice. A bit more secure than screws, I would say.
PS: Good project. Nicely done video.
Was super hyped to build one of these soon, just priced up the timber £30 per 8ft length in the UK crazy how different timber prices are across the pond.
I think this will be a great project for my grandson and I. A gift that keeps on giving. Thank you.
Remember to seal those open ends you cut on treated wood ,cause you see when he cuts the wood .The treatment isn't getting through the wood entirely.This is only if no one has said this
i agree. must be done. i would also suggest using cedar for the seat and back
Also, driving screws into the ends is not a good idea. I'd use a pocket hole or a cleat
Glad to see OSHA watches these videos.
Put more treatment on the ends that are cut and exposed
Copper tox I would assume ,whatever they treated the wood with
I love my diablo blades. A world of difference! I’ve made a few of these. I sealed them and put them all around our property (17 acres). Thanks!
Just finished my Leopold bench, I used your scheme and it looks very good. Thanks
First THANKS! I have the same saw and it cuts terrible. I will upgrade the blade to the Diablo.
I doubt that I would do this in 30 mins. Between watching the video and making sure you measure twice and cut once I would probably do it in 1h. Still very impressive. Thanks you so much
I love it... you made it look so easy, I think I need written directions and PICTURES . Lol I 'd like to give it a go.
60 bucks in wood now and about 2.5 hours to finish. Worth it!
Interesting video. Always wanted to know more about speed squares, thank you. Please consider a video on what else can be accomplished using speed squares and DYI’s!
I'm from UK and I've just bought enough timber to do two benches and I'm going to build a decent size table too and I was about £180 . Delighted , a small project I'm planning for my wifes 50 th so we can have nice BBQ.
This bench is awesome. I make cross leg tables. I'm gonna make a few changes to your design. I have desperately needed a park bench for my table. I'm gonna do dado cuts and lap joint the boards for a cleaner look for a indoor table.
Just built mine. Took a couple hours - worked on two sawhorses outside. We live on a 150 acre ranch, and we will set this one up at an overlook above our stream. Will be great to sit there in the wilderness, quietly, and watch the critters appear. Will be building many more of them and placing them around the ranch.
I swapped the blade out on my dad's old saw out with a diablo blade. Crazy difference.
It really is! They make great products!
Wait, so your saying a new blade was better than the the old worn blade?... I don’t know bout that.
@@robertcullen4758 lol, well yes. But the narrow blade worked better than a few other factory blades that came on new, homeowner level saws.
Diablo is about the same as harbor freight blades. The Hercules blade is actually a bit better imo
You have him a brand new saw.
Foam is a great idea,thx,been using Diablo for 20 some years,lifetime carpenter here,all the people I have shown Diablo too,I should get some merch from the company..js..Diablo is the best by far for woodcutting says this 45 yr wood veteran.
Thank you for this video. I didn't have required planks, but I figured it out with smaller planks and I'm satisfied. Certainly I will try to do that bench again with bigger planks next time!
Wow..beauty..thank's for your sharing..I'll practice ..
I made two of them years ago,love them in my garden,they have held up great.
Everything OK except screwing into end grain, Pocket screws needed there,
Does the 45 degree angle piece touch the ground or does the 40 degree piece touch the ground?
@@mahmoodkhan6623 the 40 touches the ground and the 45 is where the seats rest on.
£45 for materials, 3 hours including varnishing. Its great thanks!
I like how you kept the tool list simple and easy for diyers. I saw a video called 3 simple diy woodworking projects. I disliked it because they all started with a cnc machine.
LOL....yeah, I hate it when that happens. Simply DIY is what my grandfather would make in his day, ain’t no CNC back then.
CNC!?!? Good gawd!!
The first one I made took an hour. I used quarter inch plywood and made a template of pieces a very long time ago so all I need to do is place the template on my lumber and draw lines and cut. I have notes on the template of the degree of cuts. I have a jig to measure the 1.5" front hang over and the space between the seat boards. I make two an hour if I sand but three if I don't.
I haven't seen any of your videos,haven't even watched this one yet,but I saw the design of that bench in the thumbnail and based on it alone you earned my subscription
I just finished buildin mine today, took about 1 1/2 hours total from gathering tools and taking my time.
Very easy build and i was surprised it fit my big butt, my girlfriend and our 4 year old comfortably.
Gona leave it in the sun a few days to dry the wood a little then sand abd stain it. I used regular lumber as my bench is under a carport
When cutting treated wood insure that the ends cut are covered with additional wood preservative. Most often the enter isn't properly preserved
I’ve read that you shouldn’t handle pressure treated wood without gloves. Is it safe to have this bench made of that material or is that a different kind of wood I’m thinking about?
Definitely took more than 30 minutes for me. I’m a total noob 🤣. Made one for my mother and mother in law for Mother’s Day. Thanks for the video. Great bench.
Watched and built yesterday, looks good works good , I used 2x10 because I had some leftover from my 16ft steel frame picnic table
Awesome! Glad to hear it went well!
Did you have to change any of the measurements or did it work with the same ones?
Linssensuppe it worked with the originals, it actually worked out okay , a little more seat room and a little less gap between back boards and seat.
@@raptordan6851 that's great ! Thank you very much for the information. 2x9 shouldn't be an issue at all then :-)
Linssensuppe you got er , I have three kids that are hard on things so I ran more wood screws. It’s rock solid.
My bench turned out nicely for my 1st journey into wood work. My cuts weren’t the best but it’s solid and isn’t coming loose anytime soon. Thnx👍🏾
Thank you. This an ideal project for me and for my level of experience. Unlike other videos you give full step by step instructions. I will be making this seat this weekend!
How about a table to go with these benches. Reduced the bench by half to create single chairs, would be great to have a table made from the same 2x8's to go with them... up for the challenge?
thanks for not blowing out my speakers 🙉 with your power tools... 😊👍
cool quick project...
😂 Thanks!
Yeah the silent circular saw is a nice touch!
Like the bench. July 2021 at my co-op lumber yard $80.00. This will be my second bench.
Need a time machine pressure treated lumber has gone through the roof!!
All lumber has tripled (in the UK at least), due, not only to C-19; but, the industry's biggest timber growers agreeing to deliberately stockpile lumber, forcing the market up for all of them (the major growers) to gain. :(
All lumber has gone through the roof. I mean 9 bucks for a crappy yellow pine 2x4? Really?