5 Quick Tips for Building Better Outdoor Furniture

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/p5IhXQ2

2x4 Outdoor Chaise Lounge

 

 

Why We Love this Outdoor Chaise Lounge

I had originally built this project for a rental property, but it turned out so well, we just had to keep it for ourselves.  It's such a versatile piece.  Here's why we love it:

• NO moving parts, so it's less things to break and maintain.  Instead of a reclining back, the base is long enough to be a bed on it's own.  Simply arrange pillows for the perfect back support.
• Versatile - can work as an outdoor sofa or sectional too!
• Easy to build
• Simple style works with most other pieces
• Can be stained or painted a variety of colors

WATCH: Build Video for these Outdoor Chaise Lounges

What Did You Use for a Cushion?

For the cushion I used a foam cot mattress measuring 30" x 75" - I bought mine at Fred Meyer (a Kroger Chain store similar to Walmart).  The foam should drain water through.  There are lots of options on Amazon to buy a "cot sized mattress".  

I then added a layer of outdoor batting to the top, and sewed a cushion cover.  Here is a good tutorial for sewing a box cushion cover (I am not an expert a sewing, so will defer you to someone who is).

Other Options for Cushions

This plan is easily adaptable to work with different sized cushions.  Here's a few options to consider:

• Twin Mattress - foam, waterproof or use a waterproof cover.  Can use a twin daybed cover or twin fitted sheet - spray with waterproofing fabric spray to protect it (Scotchguard).  
• Three Deep Seat Cushions - Deep seat cushions are a great choice and will already come covered.  Some may even come with pillows.  Measure the size of the cushions and adjust the cuts accordingly.
• Chaise Lounge Cushion - yep, you can use this.  But do consider since there is no reclining back, there may be an oddly placed break in the cushion.  

What Type of Wood To Use for Outdoor Furniture?

The best option for wood is douglas fir 2x4 material.  I even prefer this to cedar, since it is a more dense wood and I see it holding up better over time when finished appropriately.

For the slats, cedar is preferred - yes, you can use cedar fence pickets but do sand well.

You can also use cedar or pine, but do keep up with finishing the wood, recoating as directed on the stain can.

 

What Type of Finish Should I Use for Outdoor Furniture?

Choose an exterior stain used for decks, siding and fences.  For a "paint" look, use an opaque stain in your desired color.  Avoid film forming paints or clear poly coats that may crack and peel when the wood expands and contracts with moisture.  

Exterior stains are also easy to recoat to keep your projects looking beautiful and protected for years to come.

 

Free Plans to Build Your Own Chaise Lounge

Here's the free plans to build your own chaise lounge.  Send in a photo when you are done, we can't wait to see how your project turns out!

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/AQM1kJW

Shop Hack… STOP the Madness! #diresta

Here’s a quick shop hack to help with a few of the frustrations that you might find when working in the workshop… Enjoy!

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-n1iz6bL06c

Lemonade Stand with 2x4 Frame

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/61N7HLw

BIG Job Coming Up? DO THIS! #diresta

Here is a quick shop tip for you... Keep your clamps oil!

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TRLtC_RCfY

“U” Times New Roman Alphabet Series... #BandsawCowboy #diresta

Up next “U” in my alphabet bandsaw build series, cut out in Times New Roman font – Enjoy!

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S53kNS_hH7E

Small Modern Chicken Coop

 

 

 

 

Small Modern Chicken Coop Features

• Modern styling
• Narrow profile fits just about anywhere
• Coop, nesting box and run combo is all you need for chickens
• Removeable floor and nesting box for cleaning
• Easy cleaning - just open the door up and rake out and replace with straw
• DIY Friendly - designed for one sheet of tin

 

WATCH!  DIY Modern Chicken Coop Build Video

Video Coming soon

 

FAQ About this Chicken Coop

How do I Insulate? - There are many different ways to insulate.  The ceiling can be insulated with foam board, and attach with foam board fasteners to keep in place.  The floor can be insulated with a thick layer of straw.  Walls can be insulated with reflective insulation rolls, cardboard, or foam - but may need 1/4" plywood overtop to prevent chickens from pecking at.  Doors can be covered in blankets for the winter.  Avoid an airtight seal, allow the coop to breathe.

Can I make double wide?  Yes, you could easily add 36" to the width to create a double sized coop and use two sheets of tin on the top.  I would love to create a plan if there is enough interest.

Is this heavy?  Yes, it is heavy.  My husband and I were able to move it, but it was not easy.  I would suggest a couple more hands to help move it.  Consider prefabbing up the panels in the garage, then assembling the pieces at the long term home of the chicken coop.

Will it blow away in the wind?  If you live in a high wind area, don't orientate it broadside to the prevailing wind direction.  It is sturdy and I would be surprised to see it blow over.

What type of wood should I use? Douglas fir for the 2x4s is a good choice, a good balance between cost and longevity.  Douglas fir can last almost as long a cedar.

What finish should I use?  I finished the exterior using a water based semitransparent stain.  I left the inside unfinished.  It may be a good idea to add thick coats of polyurethane to the floor to help clean it.

 

from Recent Project Plans https://ift.tt/K3czbIm

PULL IT OUT and Flip it over… Shop Tip #diresta

Here is a quick shop tip when you are working on the bandsaw

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxw1bVThbmc

This Sewing Machine is a Beast

In this video I use my new Weaver 205 leather sewing machine to make 10 wallets for friends and family. The leather is and 8 -9 oz veg tan I like this because it is very pliable and forgiving to sew and stamp & color. The WEAVER 205 sewing machine can be seen here https://ift.tt/8cdNxVr

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrBhTfy8qXQ

This Shop Hack is…🔥🔥🔥#diresta

Here is a quick shop hack to get any metal that you are working on red hot ...FAST!

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipCyVU5uTJI

“T” Times New Roman Alphabet Series... #BandsawCowboy #diresta

Up next “T” in my alphabet bandsaw build series, cut out in Times New Roman font – Enjoy!

from jimmydiresta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1s5aJ-vKdsA