How to Make Log Benches

Its rustic look fits in on a patio, garden, recreation room or den. Splitting logs lengthwise is very difficult if not impossible using ordinary tools. Sawmills use gigantic equipment to split logs. Get your hands on one after it's split and add the legs.

1. Place the split log face up, perpendicular to the two 24-inch logs that will serve as supports. The supports should be centered 18 inches from each end.

2. Draw a half-circle with a lumber crayon on the split log at the point where the split log contacts the support logs. The half-circle curve should mirror the curve in the smaller logs as close as possible. The curve should be about 5 inches deep at the highest point.

3. Remove the split log from the support logs. Turn it face down. Cut the rough size of the curve with a chainsaw. Make a series of vertical cuts side by side to the curved line. Cut across at a slight angle to remove the pieces. Remove as much of the material as possible without cutting through the line. It doesn't have to be perfect.

4. Chisel the curve out to define it using a 2-inch chisel and mallet. Test fit the split log by placing it on the shorter logs. Continue chiseling and testing until the logs fit together snugly.

5. Drill one hole on each side of the split log, 2 inches from the contact point at the apex of the curve. Angle a 1/4-inch drill bit at 30 degrees to penetrate through the side of the split log into the 24-inch log below it to a depth of no more than 1 inch.

6. Insert 5/16-by-4-inch lag bolts in the holes. Drive the lag bolts in using a 3/8-inch socket and ratchet.

Tenon Method

1. Install a 2-inch tenon cutter into a drill with a 1/2-inch chuck. Clamp one of the 3 1/2-by-16-inch logs to a worktable, with one end extending over the edge of the table.

2. Position the end of the tenon cutter on the end of the log. Turn on the drill and push the end of the tenon cutter over the end of the log slowly until it stops. Remove the clamp. Do one end of all four 3 1/2-by-16-inch legs.

3. Place the split log face down. Mark two holes for legs, 8 inches apart, 18 inches from both ends. Drill holes at the marks using a drill with a 1/2-inch chuck and a 2-inch Forstner bit.

4. Mix water with powdered resin glue according to directions printed on the packaging. Apply glue to the holes and the tenons. Insert the tenons in the holes. Drive the legs into the holes with a rubber mallet. Allow the glue to dry overnight.

5. Stand the bench on its legs on a flat surface. Place a 1 1/2-inch wide straightedge on the flat surface, on edge against one of the legs. Trace the line of the straightedge across the leg, transferring the angle of the flat surface to the leg.

6. Flip the bench upside down with the legs in the air. Cut the legs off at the angle using a reciprocating saw. Turn the bench on its feet. Check for level by rocking the bench. Trim the leg or legs as needed with the saw to level the bench.

Tip

The log, bolt and tenon cutter sizes and measurements are an example. You can use any combination of log diameter and length you like. Use an appropriate bolt or tenon cutter for your application. Leave out the bolts for a portable bench. Logs vary in straightness and diameter; don't let this discourage you. Trial and error is typically involved when balancing and leveling legs. Sand the top surface and edges with a belt sander equipped with an 80-grit belt if desired to smooth it. Spray the bench with water-resistant sealant if exposed to the elements.

Warning

Chain saws are dangerous. If you're inexperienced with a chainsaw, enlist the help of a professional mill worker or experienced user. Wear eye protection. Log furniture and parts are heavy. Work with an assistant if needed to lift larger pieces.