Nothing complements a farmhouse table like a matching farmhouse bench. If you want extra seating, farmhouse character, and a smart budget-friendly project, this DIY farmhouse bench is perfect — it cost me under $40 and took just a couple of afternoons to build. Whether you pair it with an existing farmhouse table or use it as a versatile piece in an entryway or mudroom, it’s a practical, stylish addition to any home.
I built the accompanying farmhouse table years ago and always planned to add a bench to one side. Life and a growing family delayed the project, but when I finally built the bench it took only two afternoons. The result is a sturdy, low-profile bench that tucks under the table when not in use and provides extra seating without costing a fortune.
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This bench requires only basic tools — a miter saw, drill, circular saw and a Kreg Jig make the build straightforward. The total material cost is low, especially compared with buying matching chairs or a bench. It’s a practical, attractive project for any DIYer who wants farmhouse style on a budget.
A nice bonus: this bench doubles as functional seating outside the dining room. Slide it under the table when you need floor space, or use it in an entryway or hallway with baskets tucked underneath for instant storage and seating. The design is flexible and easy to adapt to different lengths and uses.
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Note: This article originally included links to tools and materials; when sourcing supplies, choose solid, straight boards and the correct fasteners for pocket-hole joinery.
This post contains affiliate links for convenience in the original; always follow product instructions and safety guidelines when using power tools and finishes.
Supplies You Need for a DIY Farmhouse Bench
- 1 — 4 x 4 x 8 board (for legs)
- 2 — 2 x 8 x 8 boards (for bench top and breadboards)
- 2 — 2 x 4 x 8 boards (for aprons and supports)
- 2-1/2 inch pocket-hole (Kreg) screws
- 3 inch wood screws
- Miter saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Circular saw
- Kreg Jig (or another pocket-hole system)
- Wood glue (optional)
- Wood conditioner, stain or paint
- Matte polyurethane or other sealer
Cut List for a DIY Farmhouse Bench
- 4 — 4x4s cut to 16.5 inches (bench legs)
- 2 — 2x8s cut to 14.5 inches (breadboards)
- 2 — 2x8s cut to 59.5 inches (bench top pieces)**
- 2 — 2x4s cut to 57 inches (long aprons)** — adjust to position legs where you prefer
- 2 — 2x4s cut to 5 inches (short aprons)
- 2 — 2x4s cut to 12 inches (supports)
**My bench is 74 inches long, so adjust the lengths to fit the bench length you want.
How to Build a DIY Farmhouse Bench
Step 1: Cut your boards. Measure and cut each board to the proper length. I recommend measuring and cutting one board at a time to account for blade width (kerf) so cuts end up precise.
Step 2: Drill pocket holes. Set your Kreg Jig for the actual thickness of your boards (1.5 inches for typical 2x material) and drill pocket holes where the pieces will join. Typical pocket-hole placement:
- Short aprons: two holes at each end and one in the middle of the long side
- Long aprons: two holes at each end and holes spaced roughly every 6–8 inches along the long side
- Bench top: drill along one long edge of a bench-top board every 6–8 inches
- Breadboards: drill four pocket holes along one long edge
Step 3: Notch the legs for supports. Mark and cut notches in the 4×4 legs so the supports sit flush. Make shallow parallel cuts with a circular saw between the marked depths (for example, cuts at 3.5″ and 7″ from the bottom), then remove the waste with a chisel. Take your time here — clean, square notches make assembly easier and stronger.
Step 4: Attach the leg supports. Pre-drill holes in the supports and use 3-inch wood screws to fasten them into the notched legs. Pre-drilling prevents splitting and ensures clean, secure connections. Measure and mark carefully so screw locations are centered and consistent.
Step 5: Install short aprons between the legs. Position the short aprons flush with the tops of the legs. Use a scrap 1×4 as a spacer to inset the aprons if you want a recessed look, then secure with pocket-hole screws.
Step 6: Attach the long aprons. Again, inset them with a scrap board if desired and secure with pocket-hole screws so the frame is square and solid.
Step 7: Assemble the bench top. Apply glue between the bench-top boards if desired, clamp, and screw them together using the pocket holes or pocket screws you drilled earlier. Make sure boards are aligned and flush before the glue dries.
Step 8: Attach the frame and legs to the underside of the bench top. Center the leg and apron frame on the underside of the bench top and fasten with 2.5-inch pocket-hole screws. Check that everything is square and centered before final tightening.
Flip the bench over and admire your work — a simple pile of lumber has become a handsome, functional piece of furniture.
Step 9: Finish with stain or paint and a sealer. Start with a wood conditioner if using stain, then apply the stain in the color you prefer. Once the stain is dry and you’re satisfied with the color, protect the bench with two coats of matte polyurethane or your chosen sealer.
Related: How to Build a Farmhouse Table
That’s it — you now have a durable, attractive farmhouse bench that adds seating and charm without a big investment. The build is straightforward and adaptable, so you can adjust dimensions and finishes to suit your space and style. If you make one, I’d love to see how it turns out!
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