How to Build a Rustic Garden Bench

Paul James converts a tree trunk into a rustic garden bench.

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Filed under: Benches, How To

Gardening by the Yard host Paul James recently cut down a good-sized tree and, although he had most of the debris hauled off, he decided to convert the trunk into a rustic garden bench.

This project doesn't require wood-working, just a fair adeptness at using a chain saw and good measuring skills.

Here's how to do it:

Measure the trunk to a length of four feet, which makes a cozy bench for two.

Figure A

Cut two sections to serve as uprights, each about 18 inches tall. Cut V-shaped notches in each of them (figure A).

Figure B

Cut the top of the bench horizontally to create a flat top for sitting (figure B). Many people would cut the trunk in half to make two benches, but that can create a sharp edge that's uncomfortable to sit on. Instead, cut the top third of the trunk off.