Are you tired of tripping over shoes and jackets in your entryway? Do you need a place to store items like keys, umbrellas, or dog leashes?
Creating an entryway bench with drawers is a practical and rewarding DIY project combining functionality and style. An entryway bench is a convenient seating area that provides storage to keep your space organized and clutter-free.
Adding built-in drawers allows you to store items like shoes, gloves, or other essentials, making it easy to grab what you need as you head out the door.
This guide on how to build a entryway bench with drawers will walk you through the steps to construct a sturdy and stylish bench, from selecting materials and tools to assembling and finishing the piece.
What Are the Benefits of an Entryway Bench With Drawers?
Before diving into the construction process, it’s essential to understand the benefits of having a entryway bench with drawers. Firstly, it maximizes space by combining seating and storage in one piece of furniture. This is especially useful for smaller entryways or apartments where every inch counts.
Secondly, an entryway bench can add aesthetic appeal to your home. By customizing the design and finish, you can create a statement piece that reflects your style and complements your existing decor. Plus, having a designated place for items like shoes or jackets makes your space look neater and more organized.
Lastly, building your entryway bench allows you to tailor the size and features to your needs. For example, if you have a large family, add more drawers for additional storage. Or if you frequently entertain guests, you can opt for a more extended bench with extra seating space.
What Will You Need?
To get started, you will need the following materials and tools:
- Wood (for frame, top, and drawers)
- Plywood (for drawer bottoms)
- Screws
- Nails
- Drawer slides
- Saw (circular or table saw)
- Drill
- Hammer or nail gun
- Sandpaper or sander
- Wood glue
Depending on your design and skill level, you may also require additional tools such as a router for creating decorative edges or a biscuit joiner for stronger joints.
9 Easy Steps on How to Build a Entryway Bench With Drawers
Step 1: Plan and Design Your Bench
Start by deciding on the dimensions and style of your entryway bench. Measure the space where the bench will be placed to ensure it fits. Sketch out a design that includes the number of drawers, overall size, and any decorative features you want to incorporate.
Consider practicality and aesthetics to create a design that suits your needs and complements your home’s decor. Having a clear plan will guide you through the building process.
Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
Once your design is finalized, it’s time to gather all the materials and tools you’ll need. Refer to the list of necessary materials, such as plywood, screws, nails, and drawer slides, ensuring you have sufficient quantities for the dimensions you’ve planned.
Check that your tools, like the saw, drill, hammer or nail gun, and sander, are in good working condition. If you plan to incorporate advanced design features like decorative edges or reinforced joints, don’t forget to include specialized tools such as a router or biscuit joiner.
Additionally, set up a workspace that offers ample room to move materials around and assemble the bench. A clean, organized environment will make the building process easier and help ensure accuracy. Preparing all your resources beforehand will save you frustration and time as you move forward with your project.
Step 3: Cut and Prepare the Pieces
With your materials and tools ready, begin by cutting the plywood and other materials into the appropriate dimensions as outlined in your design plan. Use a saw to make precise cuts, ensuring each piece matches the specified measurements. After cutting, sand each piece thoroughly to remove any splinters or rough edges, creating a smooth, safe, and visually appealing surface.
If your design includes intricate cuts, decorative edges, or specific patterns, use tools like a jigsaw or router to achieve the desired details. Lay out the pieces to confirm that everything fits together correctly before starting assembly. Proper preparation at this stage will ensure a smoother building process and a polished final product.
Step 4: Assemble the Pieces
Once all the pieces are prepared and double-checked for accuracy, you can begin assembling your project. Start by joining the primary structural components using wood glue, screws, or nails, depending on your design and the level of stability required.
Follow your design plan closely to ensure proper alignment and support. Use clamps to hold pieces together securely while the adhesive sets, and verify that all angles and joints are straight.
Consider reinforcing corners or joints with brackets or additional fasteners for added durability. Take your time during this process to avoid mistakes that could weaken the structure or require rework later. A careful assembly will establish a sturdy and professional-looking finished product.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
After the assembly is complete and the adhesive has fully cured, it’s time to sand and finish your project. Begin by using coarse-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or uneven surfaces, gradually moving to finer grits for a polished finish. Pay close attention to edges and corners to ensure they are even and smooth.
Once sanding is complete, wipe down the entire project with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust. Next, apply your chosen finish — such as paint, stain, or varnish — to protect the material and enhance its appearance.
Allow sufficient drying time between coats, and sand lightly between applications for a professional, smooth finish. This step will improve your project’s longevity and give it a refined and visually pleasing look.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Touch-Ups
Once the finish has dried completely, performing a final inspection of your project is important. Check for imperfections, such as rough spots, uneven finishes, or areas needing additional sanding or coating.
Address these by lightly sanding and reapplying the finish as necessary. Ensure that all project parts are securely assembled and functioning as intended. Take this opportunity to clean up any excess adhesive, paint, or stain that may have been overlooked.
A thorough final inspection and attention to detail will ensure your project meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Step 7: Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity of your finished project, it’s essential to practice regular maintenance and care. Clean the surface periodically using appropriate cleaning materials to prevent dirt buildup and wear.
Avoid exposing the project to extreme conditions, such as excessive moisture or direct sunlight, which could degrade the materials over time. For wooden projects, consider reapplying a protective finish every few years to preserve their appearance and durability. By taking proactive steps in maintenance, your project will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Step 8: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning and execution, you may encounter issues with your project over time. For loose components, inspect the connections and tighten screws or reapply adhesive as needed. If the finish begins to wear or fade, sand the affected area lightly and reapply the appropriate coating.
For structural concerns, assess the damage and consider replacing compromised parts to maintain integrity. Address minor issues promptly to prevent them from developing into larger problems. Troubleshooting regularly will help keep your project in optimal condition.
Step 9: Enhancing the Final Presentation
Once your project is complete and functional, enhance its final presentation. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the surface to remove any sawdust, debris, or smudges that may have accumulated during construction. Add decorative elements such as paint, stains, or hardware to personalize the project and match your desired aesthetic.
Applying a sealant or wax for wooden projects can provide a polished finish while offering additional protection. These finishing touches improve the appearance and demonstrate the effort you’ve invested in creating a high-quality result.
By following these steps, you can successfully build a project that is not only functional but also visually appealing and long-lasting.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Using Poor-Quality Materials: Avoid using subpar or weak materials for your bench, as this can significantly compromise its durability and longevity. Ensure you choose sturdy wood or materials that can withstand daily use.
- Ignoring Accurate Measurements: Incorrect measurements can lead to uneven drawers or a poorly balanced bench. Always double-check your dimensions before cutting materials or assembling components.
- Skipping Proper Sanding and Finishing: Neglecting to sand the wood and finish the surface can result in a rough texture and splinters. Proper finishing, including painting or staining, enhances the bench’s appearance and protects it from wear and tear.
- Forgetting to Reinforce Structural Support: The bench may not hold weight properly without adequate reinforcement. Use screws, brackets, or other reinforcements to ensure the bench and drawers are structurally sound and stable.
- Overcomplicating the Design: A complex design can lead to unnecessary frustration during construction. Stick to a simple, functional design that fits your skills and effectively meets your space’s needs.
Conclusion
How to build a entryway bench with drawers is a rewarding project that combines functionality with style to enhance your home.
You can create a sturdy and attractive piece of furniture by carefully planning your design, using quality materials, and paying attention to details like measurements, sanding, and structural reinforcement. Avoid common mistakes by keeping the construction process organized and straightforward.
With patience and proper execution, your custom bench will provide a practical storage solution while adding charm to your entryway for years to come.
