GARDEN BENCH

There’s something timeless about a sturdy wooden bench tucked into a garden or placed under a shady tree. We’ve always admired the classic English park benches that seem to get even more beautiful with age—and we finally decided to build one of our own.

If you’ve been dreaming about adding a handcrafted garden bench to your outdoor space, this project is the perfect place to start.

A Project Rooted in Tradition

Traditionally, these benches were made of teak and designed to stand the test of time in parks and gardens across England. For our build, we used cedar because it’s naturally weather-resistant, but white oak, redwood, or cypress would all be excellent choices too.

Whatever wood you choose, it’s a good idea to finish your bench with a high-quality waterproof sealer to help it endure the elements and keep looking beautiful year after year.

Building Techniques That Add Strength and Character

One of the reasons this bench will last for decades is the traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery used in its construction. Sure, there are faster methods out there (like dowels or screws), but nothing beats the long-term durability and classic craftsmanship of a true mortise-and-tenon joint.

And don’t worry if you’ve never made one before—cedar compresses easily, so even if your cuts aren’t perfect, the pieces will still fit together nicely.

Along the way, you’ll also learn:

• Face-gluing boards to create the strong, sturdy legs

• Making dowelled joints for additional support

• Applying stains and finishes to enhance the wood’s natural grain and provide lasting protection

This bench isn’t just a project—it’s a masterclass in woodworking basics that will serve you well for years to come.

Perfect for Any Outdoor Space

We designed ours to live in the backyard garden, but this bench would be right at home on:

• A front porch for a cozy seating area

• A patio next to a fire pit

• Along a garden path for a peaceful rest stop

• Near a pond or fountain as a quiet place to enjoy the view

No matter where you place it, it’ll add a welcoming, timeless charm to your outdoor space.

There’s a special kind of satisfaction in building something that’s both beautiful and built to last. This garden bench gave us the chance to slow down, learn a few traditional techniques, and create a piece that will be part of our home for years to come.

If you're ready for a project that's as rewarding as it is practical, we highly recommend giving this one a try.