Make Your Own Outdoor Furniture: Budget-Friendly Ideas

Outdoor furniture is essential for anyone who enjoys spending time outside, whether that be in your back garden, balcony, or patio. However, outdoor furniture can be expensive, and it can be challenging to find pieces that cater to your unique tastes and preferences. Luckily, with a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can make your own outdoor furniture style that is budget-friendly and tailor-made to your specific needs.

Before You Begin: Plan Your Design

Before diving into the actual construction, it’s imperative to plan and design your outdoor furniture. Decide on the style, color scheme, and essential features you’ll need, such as storage or weather-proofing. You can look at magazines, online resources, and social media platforms for inspiration, but always keep your budget in mind.

Materials You’ll Need

Once you’ve nailed the design, the next step is sourcing the materials. Depending on the furniture piece’s size and type, you’ll likely need some or all of the following items:

• Wood (preferably from sustainable sources)
• Screws
• Glue
• Saw
• Sander
• Drill
• Measuring tape
• Paint or stain (optional)
• Outdoor cushions and pillows (optional)

Budget-Friendly Outdoor Furniture Ideas

Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs are quintessentially outdoor furniture pieces, and you can find numerous tutorials and plans for building them. They typically require wooden planks and screws, and with some painting or staining, they can beautifully complement your outdoor spaces.

Pallet Furniture

Pallet furniture is not only budget-friendly, but it is also eco-friendly, giving new life to wooden pallets that would typically end up in landfills. You can make pallet sofas, chairs, and even tables by disassembling pallets and using the wood to create your desired furniture piece.

Concrete Block Benches

Concrete block benches are straightforward to make and offer a sleek, minimalistic look that is perfect for modern outdoor spaces. All you need are concrete blocks and a few wooden planks for the seat.

Arbor Bench

An arbor bench is a stunning addition to any outdoor space, and you can use it as a focal point in your backyard or garden. This bench requires wooden beams, a saw, and a drill, and with a little decorative flair, you can have a gorgeous bench that will last for years.

Foldable Picnic Table

A foldable picnic table is perfect for small patios or apartment balconies, as it can be easily stored when not in use. It requires wooden planks, hinges, and a saw, and with the right measurements and construction, you can have a stable and practical outdoor table.

Cinder Block Lounger

A cinder block lounger is a modern, industrial take on outdoor furniture, and it’s incredibly budget-friendly. All you need are some wooden planks and cinder blocks, and with a little creativity, you can create a comfortable and stylish outdoor lounger.

Plant Stand

If you’re looking to spruce up outdoor space with foliage, why not create your plant stand? Plant stands require wooden planks, screws, and a saw, and with a few adjustments, like varying heights or playful paint colors, you can have a unique addition to your garden.

Conclusion

Creating your outdoor furniture pieces is a budget-friendly and eco-friendly way to add a personal touch to your outdoor spaces. By planning and designing your furniture, sourcing the right materials, and using your imagination, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and finishes, and most importantly, have fun!

FAQs

1. Is it cheaper to make outdoor furniture than buying it?

Yes, making outdoor furniture can be cheaper than purchasing it from a store, especially if you use recycled materials.

2. Is it easy to make outdoor furniture?

It depends on your level of skill and experience. Some outdoor furniture pieces are more challenging to build than others, so choose your projects accordingly.

3. Do I have to use treated lumber for outdoor furniture?

While it isn’t necessary, treated lumber is recommended for durability and weather resistance.

4. Can I stain or paint my outdoor furniture?

Yes, but make sure to use exterior-grade paint or stain to protect the furniture from weather damage.

5. What tools do I need to make outdoor furniture?

You’ll need a saw, sander, drill, measuring tape, and screws, and glue, among other items, depending on the furniture piece.

6. How long will my homemade outdoor furniture last?

The lifespan of your outdoor furniture will depend on the materials used, how well it’s constructed, and the external environment. With proper upkeep, your furniture can last for years.

7. Can I sell my homemade outdoor furniture?

Yes, you can sell your outdoor furniture creations, but ensure that you follow all legal requirements and regulations.

References

1. Lowe’s. (n.d.). How to Build an Adirondack Chair. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/build-an-adirondack-chair
2. HGTV. (n.d.). How to Build a Pallet Sofa for the Garden. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.hgtv.com/videos/how-to-build-a-pallet-sofa-for-the-garden-0195422
3. Realtor.com. (2021, May 14). Cinder Block DIY Furniture Is a Thing, and It Actually Looks Beautiful. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/cinder-block-diy-furniture/
4. Family Handyman. (n.d.). How to Build an Arbor with Built-in Benches. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/arbor-with-built-in-benches-project/
5. DIY Network. (n.d.). Folding Picnic Table DIY Plans. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/carpentry-and-woodworking/how-to-make-a-folding-porch-table-diypetewithabeskid5
6. BobVila.com. (n.d.). How To: Build a Concrete Block Bench. Retrieved November 11, 2021 from https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-build-a-concrete-block-bench/