How to Build a Storage Bench With Upholstered Lid

Steps:

1. Use a table saw to cut pieces of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and assemble using first wood glue and then a nail gun to secure the bench base.

2. Use the table saw to cut three-inch strips of MDF and use the strips to trim out both the top and bottom of the piece so that they look like molding. Adhere with wood glue and nails.

3. Use spackle to hide the seams and to prevent the paint from seeping into the cracks between the "molding" and the bench sides. Once dry, paint the entire assembled box using a weenie roller. Set aside to dry.

4. Use the table saw to cut a rectangular slab to use as the bench lid. Secure foam to the lid with spray adhesive. Cover the foam with batting and affix with staples.

5. Mark where you want the buttons to go with a pencil and then drill holes for them.

Figure A

6. Wrap the batting with muslin and secure with staples. This ensures that the upholstered fabric will look smooth over the batting and foam. Cover the muslin with the upholstery fabric and secure with staples (figure A).

7. Attach string to one end of a straight piece of coat hanger. Run the hanger up through the predrilled buttonhole, exiting through the face of the upholstery. Detach string from hanger and thread through each of the covered buttons. Pull snug from the bottom and staple down onto the back of the lid.

Figure B

8. Attach one side of a hinge to the backside of the lid and the other side onto the lip of the bench base using a drill and screws (figure B).