DIY Kitchen Benches that are easy to make, easy on your budget, and perfect farmhouse style!
Months before we moved into Old Salt Farm I started searching for kitchen stools. Our plans called for a big island that would fit our six kids, and I wanted stools that would be good for them, plus fit my farmhouse style and our budget. I ended up finding several stools I liked, but I just didn’t like them enough. I started thinking about it some more, and realized that what I needed was a couple of kitchen benches instead of stools. Not only could I fit more kids on them, and based on previous experience, I knew they would be easier to clean than the individual stools we’d always had before. Plus, I could build them for a fraction of the cost, which in my book, is a win-win-win!
I absolutely love our kitchen benches. Like, I REALLY love them. They’ve proven to be everything I thought and hoped they would be. Super easy to clean, plenty of room for my kiddos to sit, darling farmhouse style, and cheaper than just about any other stool I found (and it adds up when you’re buying so many)!
P.S. I get a lot of questions about the hooks on my island—here’s the link! (affiliate)
I’m going to show you how we made them, and give you a cut list plus plenty of pictures…after they were built. I wish I had more process pictures to share, but we made these very quickly right before we moved, and it was just so crazy of a time. We were living in an apartment, all of our tools in storage, and someone very kind let us use an empty workshop at a factory to build everything for our home. But because we had to travel there, we rarely went together, and the pictures just didn’t happen. However…it’s a pretty easy plan, and I hope with the pictures and the cut list you’ll be able to see what we did.
DIY KITCHEN BENCHES
CUT LIST–
Legs–
4×4 posts: 22 in. (4)
Top–
2x4x35 (4)
2×4 x13 3/4 (2)
Frame–
2x4x31 (2)
2x4x33 1/2 (1)
2x4x5 (4)
OTHER SUPPLIES
(Affiliate links are included below for your convenience. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
- –Kreg pocket jig
- –stain (this is what I used)
- -lint free rags
- –painters tape
- -white paint (I used leftover wall paint)
- –sander (this is an awesome one!)
- -medium grit sandpaper
DIRECTIONS
-Start by building the “H” for each side: the two legs, and the short piece in the middle and at the top.
-Attach the two sides together with the long piece in the middle (that hooks into the bottom short pieces), and then the two pieces on each side at the top.
-Put the top together, then attach to the frame.
Use a Kreg jig (Kreg Pocket Hole Jig System) to attach the pieces of wood to each other. If you don’t have one, get one. :) Seriously, if you want to build anything from frames to furniture, it’s the best and easiest way to do it. You can start out with one that’s only around $39 on Amazon, or check out your local hardware stores to see what their prices are.
The top was attached using wood glue, and then nails for extra security. (thin nail head, but long enough to go through)
After the benches were built, I stained them (Provincial by Minwax), then taped off the top, and painted the legs and frame white. Once the paint was dry, I used a power sander to distress the legs and frame. The finally step was to stencil numbers on to the top of the benches—1, 2, 3 on one, and 4, 5, 6 on the other one. ( I used my Silhouette to cut out numbers, and then black spray paint.) My kids each have a number that goes on just about everything, including their “spot” on the bench! I also sanded the numbers a little so they were more faded and distressed.
And you’re finished!
We absolutely LOVE them! It’s been nearly four years since we built them, and they’re still going strong. They’re perfect for my kids, and I love them in my kitchen. So glad we built them!
OTHER IDEAS YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Jaime Costiglio says
Super cute and I love that they can fit multiple kids. Have you considered simple baseboard trim around the island sides and back? It would finish it off so pretty. Thanks for sharing the plans.
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you, Jaime! And yes…it’s on our long list of to-do’s, lol. I’m actually considering shiplap as well. :)
Andrew says
LOVE LOVE LOVE these benches!!!! Great job!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thanks so much!! xoxo
Debbie says
I love these benches and everything about your home ! The farm decor is something I love. I don’t know how you do it. What happens when you are sick ? Do you ever have me time ? I never quite knew what that actually meant though ? I am old school so maybe its just my age !! LOL You have so much talent……
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you so much, Debbie! I do have me time, thankfully! And actually, this is the kind of stuff that I love to do, it is my “me” time! :) The nice thing is, I fit it in when I can–around my kids and family and everything else! Have a great day! xoxo
Liz Cheney says
Hi there. Can you share the dimensions for the island? Love it! Thank you!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Sure! It’s 8 feet x a little over 3 feet–we went as wide as we could without having to brace it up. :)
Liz Cheney says
Thanks! How long is the overhang part that houses the benches underneath?
Liz
Rachel says
I would love to know more about the island! Did you make this?!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
We did make it! I don’t have a tutorial for it, but we basically found old barn wood that was about the same thickness could be cut to the same length–enough to be the island width and length plus some. We used a planer to smooth the wood–sanded it SO much, filled in the holes so they would be smooth, then stained and put a sealant on it. Rebar goes through the bottom side–I can send you pictures if you’re interested!
Erin Higgs says
Hi!
I love these. I’m just getting ready to build a couple. I’m just curious on how you secured the top? Did you use nails or counter sink screws? Thank you!
Erin
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
We actually wood glue and a few small nails through the top!
Jason says
I had this question as well. If possible, could you update your post with actual pictures showing where you connected the top (a picture showing the Kreg pocket holes would be great)?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Jason! I’m not sure if you still need these pictures or not, but I’m going to be updating this week!!
Victor says
Use pocket holes going from 2×4 to the seat in an upward direction. With a 1.5” Kreg screw set at a 1” pocket hole. Hope that helps!
Deby Stagliano says
I love these benches, too! Thank you so much for sharing. Another option for attaching the top would be pocket holes on the inside of the long pieces on the top of the frame and then screw into the top from underneath. I’m definitely going to make them!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
You could do it that way too!! Thanks, Deby!
shannaMade says
I love the benches as counter bar seating! Your kitchen is so cheerful I love it!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you so much! xo
Kandy Koehler says
LOVE LOVE LOVE! Did you spray paint the legs?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you so much, Kandy! I did spray the legs, but with a paint sprayer, using latex paint. You could totally use spray paint though! xoxo
Elisha says
I absolutely love these benches I am making a long one for my island and I was curious how you connected the 4 x 4’s to the top?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
I must have forgotten to add that to the directions, I’m so sorry! We used wood glue and a few small nails through the top of the bench.
Jeremy Wendling says
Hi. Can you be very specific how exactly you joined the top with the frame? Somewhat new to woodworking and I can’t figure how or where you used the jig and glue to join them…
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Jeremy!
We didn’t use a jig to attach the top–only wood glue and nails with a small head for extra security–then puttied the nail holes. Hope that helps!
Kim says
We are considering building something similar for our kids. We have a counter depth island with a 10 inch overhang, so need a narrow bench. My concern with the narrow bench is how sturdy or top-heavy are they? We have young children, so are worried in general about narrow benches or stools topping over. Love your design!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Ours are really sturdy. The legs are made out of 4×4 posts, so it’s a good, solid base. I have 5 kids that are aged 10 and under, so lots of littles at our house too–I totally understand! We’ve never had a problem with tipping or toppling over. I think it would depend on on how long you made them too.
Debbie says
I love them. They’re really beautiful & I love rustic country furniture. I toi build furniture & my bis night me a kreg jig a couple of Christmases ago. If this PNW weather would ever dry up I could get to building me some of these benches. You attached the bench top last, right? Thank you so much for the tutorial.
B LaMaster says
so so so cute, just wondering if you happen to know how tall your kitchen island is. I want to do something similiar to this and would love to copy your dimensions, but your island looks like it might be a tad taller than mine. Love reading your posts, keep up the inspiration girl!!!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Sure! They measure 36 inches from the floor to the top of the island. If it’s not an exact match, you could just adjust the height of the benches by however many inches it’s off by. Hope that helps! xoxo
Anat Zach says
Hi, I love it so much, please tell me how did you attach the top, I can’t see kreg’s holes at the bottom.
Thanks, Anat
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Anat! We actually used wood glue and a few small nails through the top of the bench.
Anat Zach says
OK. Thanks so much (-:
Sam says
I built my own coffee and end table out of pine wood, stained the top and base/leg edges with Briarsmoke by Varathane. I then used Zinsser oil based cover stain primer over the base and legs before painting 2 coats of Rustoleum White Linen chalk paint. I plan on distressing the edges so the stain will show through the white to make it pop and match the stain on the top. I’m now nervous the clear matte topcoat will yellow the white after much online reading, but I need a protective coat over the chalk paint and the edges where I sanded down to the stain. Any suggestions?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Sam! I like to use a polycrylic vs. polyurethane when using white paint, because it is much less likely to yellow.
Patsi says
LOVE the benches! They’re absolutely gorgeous! One question: You said above that you don’t ever used oil-based stain? Does Minwax make the Provencial in water based? I couldn’t seem to find it. Thanks!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you, Patsi! And I’m sorry–I mistyped when I wrote that answer! I think I was typing too fast, lol. I edited it so no one else will be led astray. :) I do use oil-based stain, and I did for this project. The gentleman that was asking the question was asking about a completely different project–not these benches–and something he had already stained and painted. So sorry!!
Kelly Anderson says
Hi! Love this! I have the base made but how do you make the top (before attaching it to the base?)
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Kelly! The top is made of 2×4’s. It has four in the middle, with two on the sides, cut to length. We used wood glue and a Kreg jig to put them together, then attach to the base! Hope that helps!
Erica Hicks says
Hi! I am wondering what setting you had your kreg jig on when you drilled the holes for the 5″ pieces. I have mine set at 1.5″since the boards are 2″ wide… and they are not close enough to the end of the board to put 4 holes in it…thx!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
I’m not quite sure I know what you’re asking, but I’ll tell you that our rule of thumb is to adjust it so that the top of the drill bit pierces the edge of the board–so that will change each time you have a different size. Hope this helps! If it’s not what you’re asking, please let me know!
Karen says
I love your kitchen and thank you for this tutorial! Wondering where you got the board with 3 hooks on the side of the island?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
It’s from Amazon, and I love it! Here’s the link…(affiliate) http://amzn.to/2rF7LlG
New to woodworking says
These are great! Question about your island countertop actually. Did you make it? Are they simple 2×6 stock boards? Have you had any issues with it. Considering something similar but i am unsure about the type of wood, how i want to join them, attach to the base, and if it will turn out as nice as yours looks! :-)
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hello! Yes, we did make it. It’s actually made from reclaimed barn wood that we got from an old barn being torn down. We found pieces that were similar thicknesses to make it easier. We used a belt sander to get them super smooth, and Titebond wood glue to attach them together. We stained them, then used an awesome poly acrylic over that. It’s attached using cabinet screws. We LOVE it, and have had no issues, almost a year later. If you have any more specific questions, please let me know!! Good lucK!
New to woodworking says
Thank you! It looks really good! Do you mind sharing the specific poly acrylic you used?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Sure! This is it: http://www.rockler.com/general-finishes-exterior-450-water-based-varnish-satin
We LOVE it!!
David says
When you were connecting the 5″ 2x4s to the 4x4s, did you have enough room to use your drill? I noticed the 2x4s were lined up in the middle of the 4×4 and I know the pocket hole drill bit is usually long. I was wondering if I should put the 2×4 closer to the edge.
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Yes, it is a little tricky, but since we really wanted them to be inset, we just turned the jig at an angle, and made it work. It might not be the perfect hole (as compared to others), but you can’t see it, and it still worked! You could also move the 2×4 closer to the edge if you’d rather not mess with it. Either way will work!
Jessica says
If you don’t mind me asking, what was the total cost in lumber for this project? They look amazing!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
I don’t mind at all! I’m honestly going to be approximating though, because we bought lumber for a bunch of projects all at the same time. I would say around $25 for each bench, plus or minus, depending on the cost of your lumber.
MKG says
What size screws should I use? The ones that come with the jig?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
We used 1 1/4 inch screws! Hope that helps. xoxo
Jessica says
I love the benches and just made two of them! They are perfect for seating while we make our dining table! Thank you so much! I do have one question though… what font did you use for the numbers on the bench?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Yay! So glad you made them and love them!! The font is called Adobe Ming Std.
Jessica says
Thank you Kierste!
Kim says
Hi there! These look awesome! Just wondering what the height of the bench would be if I was to make them for a bar height counter (rather than counter height)? Thanks very much in advance!!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
I’m not sure I know the difference between bar height and counter height! I’m sorry!!
alexi says
Hi! I was wondering if you have DIY instructions on how you created your island? I love it!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thank you, Alexi! Our island is one of my favorite things!! I haven’t done a tutorial yet for it, but if you have any questions, let me know, and I’ll be happy to answer them.
Tim says
Nice looking benches and thanks for sharing.
Quick question:
I’m looking to make these but, did I miss something in the instructions for the top?
(4) 2X4 put together gives me a dimension of 14″.
the posted dimension of 13.75″ for the sides would leave it short.
Did you split the difference and offset the sides? Picture’s make it look like its almost flush.
Or, remove some stock from the (4) 2×4’s?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Tim! Because 2x4s can differ so much in actual width, 13.75 is the dimension that our 2x4s added up to be on their own.
Susan says
Do you have a tutorial for your kitchen island? I love it and are just in the beginning stages of building and i want an island just like this
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Susan! I don’t have a tutorial on my blog, but I can write up some basic instructions if you are interested!! Just let me know–
Rachel says
I am!
Dave says
Me too!
Rachel says
Hello!! I’ve had one of these photos saved for inspiration for a kitchen reno we are about to start!! I have been SEARCHING for a similar pendant light and am wondering if you have ANY idea where you purchased it from?
Thanks in advance!!
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Sure! I purchased it on amazon (not sure if it’s still available), but World Market also has a similar one too! https://www.worldmarket.com/product/four-sided+glass+hanging+pendant+lantern.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=Search
Tricia Barnabe says
Love the look, where did you get the hooks on the side of the counter ?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Thanks, Tricia! Here’s the link to the hooks: (affiliate) http://amzn.to/2qMiVVH
Sean McAlum says
Can you tell me where to get untreated 4×4’s?? I cannot find any anywhere!! Thank you for your time.
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
They can be tricky to find sometimes–it really depends on your lumber stores. There have been times I couldn’t find them either. I can usually get them at Home Depot–but it can vary by location. Good luck!!
Denise Masters says
I love your space! Can you tell me what you use under the legs to protect your floor?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Sure! I use little round felt circles with sticky backs–they protect the floor when the benches are moved. I found them at Home Depot!
Laura says
Love your kitchen!!! Do you remember what color your cabinets are painted? And what kind of countertops do you have?
Simply Kierste Design Co. says
Hi, Laura! The cabinets came white…they’re by Kraftmaid. The countertops are quartz–they’re white/gray like marble. The name of it is Neve by Zodiaq!!
Stacie Valdivia says
Can you give me the measurements of the top? I want this to be one solid piece of wood.. please
Old Salt Farm says
It’s 14 inches wide!
Candi Campbell says
We are making a dining table and benches similar to your design, the table top has a few knot holes and although we have sanded a ton, there are still a few holes. I have read conflicting views on stainable wood filler and don’t want to ruin the table with patchy spots. I plan to stain with Minwax and then use a wipe on poly after. Will the poly “fill” the holes or is there a dependable product to use before we stain?
Thank you
Candi
Old Salt Farm says
Hi, Candi!
I’ve never see a stainable wood filler that looks like wood–it’s not made. Even though it’s stainable, that just means it will absorb the stain, not look like wood. If you use a a wood filler, there will be patchy spots. How big are the holes? Do you want the holes? Or are you concerned about protection?