Build a storage bench

Difficulty:

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Beginner Do-It-Yourselfer - Easy

Intermediate Do-It-Yourselfer - Moderate

Experienced Do-It-Yourselfer - Difficult

Professional - Expert
Completion Time : 1 day

This versatile storage bench is a practical and attractive addition to any room. It’s easy to build and provides the kind of accessible storage space you can’t do without.

Made of MDF, the bench measures 60"W x 18"H. Special skills are not required. If you prefer, a regular hammer and finishing nails can be used instead of an automatic nailer.

Tools and materials required

TOOLS

Table saw or circular saw with cutting guide
Drill with 1/8" bit
Mitre saw
Tape measure
Countersink drill bit for No. 6 screws
Pencil
Carpenter’s square
Hammer or finishing nailer
Putty knife
Paint prep tools and brushes

MATERIALS

2 MDF panels, 5/8" x 48" x 96"
1 ¾" No. 6 screws
Carpenter glue
2 crown mouldings, 1 ¼" x 2 ¾" x 8’
Very fine sanding sponge
150-grain sandpaper
18-gauge nails, 1 ¼" long
Filler
Primer and paint

Before Assembly

ELEVATIONS

Storage Bench elevation

NOTES

MDF

MDF is a versatile material that makes it easy to build strong, sturdy and affordable furniture. It is advisable to always glue the parts together with wood glue before fastening them with nails or screws. If the nails or screws do not provide enough strength, use clamps to hold the assembly together while the glue dries.

Screw fastening:

Always drill pilot holes using a countersink bit, with the pieces in their final assembled position. This will prevent the MDF from buckling or splitting under the torque of the screws. In one motion, the countersink bit bores a hole for the body of the screw as well as a cavity to conceal the screw head. You can use a driver-drill to do this, but it is advisable to finish tightening the screws with a manual screwdriver to prevent the driver-drill’s speed and force from damaging the MDF and weakening the screw’s grip.

Nail fastening:

For some projects it is best to use finishing nails. In such cases, using a pneumatic nailer will get the job done more quickly and easily, and the nails will hardly show.

Important note:

Always wear a protective mask when cutting or sanding MDF as the dust can be irritating and is a potential heath hazard. Work outside if you can; if this is not possible, close any air vents and doors leading to other rooms so as to prevent the dust from spreading. Open a window while you work and cover all items in the room with dust sheets. Vacuum once you have finished cutting.

Steps

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