Building a entryway bench with drawers can be a great addition to your home. It not only provides extra seating and storage space, but it also adds to the overall aesthetic of your entryway. Plus, building one yourself allows you to customize it according to your needs and preferences.
The main objective of any entryway bench is to provide storage and seating in a small space, making it perfect for an entryway or mudroom. Adding drawers to this type of furniture offers several advantages, making it not only functional but also stylish. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to build a entryway bench with drawers in this blog article.
Materials You Will Need
- A measuring tape
- A pencil for marking your measurements
- A circular saw or a chop saw to cut the wood
- Power drill, with both regular and Phillips head bits
- Drill bits for making pilot holes (a 1/8 inch bit should work well)
- Screws in various sizes (2 ½ inches, 1 ¼ inches, and 1 inch)
- Wood glue
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Paint or stain of your choice
- Optional: Drawer slides and handles for the drawers
Step by Step Processes for How to Build a Entryway Bench With Drawers
Step 1: Inspect and Gather Materials
Before starting the building process, it is important to inspect all the materials you have gathered for your entryway bench with drawers. Make sure you have all the necessary tools such as a saw, drill, hammer, measuring tape, and safety gear.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Wood Pieces
Using a measuring tape and pencil, mark the desired length of your bench on the 2×4 wooden boards. Use a saw to cut the boards according to your measurements. Using wood screws, assemble the frame of your bench by attaching the long pieces to the shorter ones at each corner.
Step 3: Insert Support Beams
Measure and cut two additional pieces of wood for support beams. Insert them between the longer pieces of your bench frame and secure them with wood screws. Cut a piece of plywood or MDF to fit on top of the frame. This will serve as the base for your bench.
Step 4: Build the Drawers
Using smaller wooden boards, build two rectangular boxes for your drawers. Attach the sides with wood glue and nails. Then, attach the bottom of the drawer using wood screws. Measure and install drawer slides on the inside of your bench frame. These will allow your drawers to slide in and out smoothly.
Step 5: Attach the Drawers
Place your drawers on top of the slides and secure them in place using screws from the inside of the drawer box. Cut a piece of plywood or MDF to fit on top of your frame. This will serve as the bench top and can be upholstered or stained for added comfort and style.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Sand down any rough edges and apply a coat of paint or stain to your bench and drawers for a professional finish. Use wood screws to attach the bench top to the frame of your entryway bench. Once your bench is assembled, you can add personal touches such as hooks for coats or baskets for storage. You can also decorate it with pillows or a throw blanket for added comfort and style.
By following these steps, you can easily build a functional and stylish entryway bench with drawers for your home. Remember to always use caution and proper safety gear when working with power tools.
Safety Tips for How to Build a Entryway Bench With Drawers
- Always use safety gear such as goggles, gloves, and a dust mask when working with power tools.
- Read all instructions carefully before using any tools or materials.
- Double check your measurements to ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes.
- Use clamps to secure pieces in place while assembling for added stability.
- Work on a flat and stable surface to prevent accidents or injuries.
- Keep your work area clean and organized to avoid tripping hazards.
- When using a saw, always cut away from your body and keep fingers away from the blade.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and successful building process for your entryway bench with drawers. Remember to take breaks when needed and ask for help if necessary.
Are There Any Budget-friendly Options for Building a Entryway Bench With Drawers?
If you’re looking to add some functional and stylish storage to your entryway, building a bench with drawers is a great way to do so. Not only will it provide a convenient spot to sit down and put on your shoes, but the added drawers will help keep clutter at bay.
However, you may be wondering if building an entryway bench with drawers can be done on a budget. The answer is yes! With some planning and creativity, you can create a beautiful bench with drawers without breaking the bank. So, let’s dive into some tips and tricks for building a budget-friendly entryway bench with drawers:
1. Choose Affordable Materials
The first step to building any project on a budget is to carefully choose your materials. Instead of opting for expensive hardwoods, consider using cheaper options like plywood or MDF. These materials may not have the same durability as hardwood, but they can still create a sturdy and functional bench.
You can also save money by repurposing old furniture or using reclaimed wood for your project. Not only will this give your bench a unique look, but it’s also an environmentally friendly option.
2. Keep It Simple
When it comes to furniture, the more intricate the design, the more expensive it will be to build. To save money, stick with a simple design for your entryway bench with drawers.
A basic rectangular shape with straight legs and minimal detailing will require less time and materials to construct.
You can also save money by using standard-sized drawers instead of custom-made ones. This will not only reduce the cost but also save you the time and effort of building them yourself.
3. Consider DIY Drawer Slides
Drawer slides can be a costly component when building a bench with drawers. But with some basic tools and hardware, you can create your own DIY drawer slides. Simply attach pieces of wood to the sides of your drawers and bench frame, allowing the drawers to slide in and out smoothly.
4. Don’t Skimp on Quality Hardware
While it’s important to save money where you can, don’t skimp on quality when it comes to hardware. Investing in good drawer pulls and hinges will ensure that your bench with drawers not only looks great but also functions well for years to come.
It’s also worth spending a little extra on sturdy drawer slides, as they will be supporting the weight of the drawers and their contents.
How Can You Incorporate Storage Space Into the Design of Your Entryway Bench With Drawers?
Entryway benches with drawers are a great addition to any home, providing both seating and storage in one piece of furniture. But when it comes to actually building one, you may be wondering how you can incorporate storage space into the design without sacrificing style or functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore some creative ways to add storage space to your entryway bench with drawers.
1. Utilize the Drawer Space
The most obvious way to add storage space to your entryway bench is by utilizing the drawers themselves. You can choose to build two or more drawers, depending on your needs and available space. These drawers are perfect for storing items like shoes, hats, gloves, and other small accessories that tend to clutter up an entryway.
To make the most of your drawer space, consider using dividers or organizers. This will help keep your items organized and easily accessible. You can also install hooks or small shelves on the inside of the drawers for additional storage options.
2. Add a Lift-Up Lid
Another way to incorporate storage in your entryway bench is by adding a lift-up lid to the top. This creates a hidden storage compartment underneath the bench, perfect for storing larger items like blankets, pillows, or even off-season clothing. You can also line the inside of the lid with hooks to hang coats or bags.
To make it easier to access this hidden storage space, consider adding hinges and a handle to the lid. This will allow you to easily lift and close the lid whenever needed. Just make sure to measure and plan accordingly so that the lid doesn’t interfere with the drawers or any other features of your bench.
3. Build a Cubby Shelf
If you want to add storage without building traditional drawers, consider incorporating a cubby shelf into your entryway bench design. This can be done by leaving open spaces in between the legs of the bench, or by adding a shelf underneath the bench top.
Cubby shelves are perfect for storing items like baskets, shoes, or even decorative pieces. You can also add labels to each cubby to keep things organized and visually appealing.
4. Install Hooks or Pegs
Lastly, consider adding hooks or pegs to your entryway bench for additional storage options. These can be installed on the sides or back of the bench, and are great for hanging coats, bags, scarves, or keys. You can also use them to display decorative items such as hats or pictures.
Just make sure to leave enough space between each hook or peg so that you don’t overcrowd the area and create a cluttered look.
What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Entryway Bench With Drawers?
One of the most popular furniture pieces for an entryway is a bench with drawers. Not only does it add a functional seating option, but it also provides convenient storage space for shoes, bags, and other essentials.
However, building a bench with drawers may seem like a daunting task for those new to woodworking or DIY projects. If you’re planning to build your own entryway bench with drawers, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Having a Plan
Before starting any project, it’s crucial to have a clear plan in place. This includes having accurate measurements, a detailed design, and a list of materials needed. Skipping this step can lead to costly mistakes and wasted time.
2. Choosing the Wrong Materials
When building a bench with drawers, it’s important to choose the right materials for durability and functionality. Avoid using cheap quality wood or materials that may not be suitable for heavy use. It’s also essential to consider the weight capacity of the bench and ensure that your chosen materials can support it.
3. Not Considering Drawer Size
The size of your drawers is a crucial factor when building an entryway bench with drawers. It’s important to make sure that the drawers are big enough to hold your desired items, but also not too big that they take up unnecessary space in the entryway. Take measurements of the items you plan on storing and use those as a guide for drawer size.
4. Not Using Proper Joinery Techniques
The strength and durability of your bench with drawers depend on the joinery techniques used. It’s essential to research and understand the best methods for joining different types of wood and materials. Avoid using weak joints such as butt joints, as they may not be able to support the weight of the bench or its contents.
5. Neglecting Finishing Touches
Many people overlook the importance of finishing touches when building a bench with drawers. This includes sanding, staining or painting, and adding hardware such as knobs or handles to the drawers. These final touches not only enhance the appearance of your bench but also protect it from wear and tear.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your entryway bench with drawers is functional, sturdy, and aesthetically pleasing. Remember to always have a plan, choose the right materials, consider drawer size, use proper joinery techniques, and add those all-important finishing touches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building an entryway bench with drawers can be a fun and rewarding DIY project for any woodworker. Not only does it add functionality to your space, but it also adds a stylish and unique piece of furniture that you can proudly display in your home. Throughout this blog, we have discussed the necessary materials, tools, and steps needed to successfully build an entryway bench with drawers.
We have also provided tips and tricks to make the process smoother and easier. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, building an entryway bench with drawers is a great project to enhance your skills and creativity. You can customize it to fit your space and needs, making it a one-of-a-kind piece. I hope this article has been beneficial for learning how to build a entryway bench with drawers. Make Sure the precautionary measures are followed chronologically.
