Porch Couch
What you need for this project
Tools:
Pencil
miter saw (optional)
Materials:
(3) Deep seat Cushions
(4) 5/4 x 6″ x 4′
(9) 1 x 3″ x 6′
(3) 1 x 2″ x 6′
(2) 1 x 1 x 8′
2 x 8 x 5/8 plywood
(4) 1 1/2″ #8 galvanized screws
Glue (2) 5/4 x 6 x 48 together by rolling glue on both pieces and clamping them together. Allow to dry overnight. Cut legs out according to layout above with a band saw.
Cut 1 x 3 x 6’s to length according to layout above. Cut 1″ tenons on each each.
Transfer all of your measurements to your cut legs according to layout above. Use router with 1/4″ upcut spiral bit to create mortises. **note the bottom mortise for the back isn’t cut yet.
Dry fit couch frame together and make any necessary adjustments. Take apart.
The height of the back is 21″. Cut one of the 1x3x6′ to two 16″. Space them to create 3 equal spaces.
To figure the angle, line the 1x2x6 up with the top and bottom of the back. Use a straight edge to mark your exact cut. Set the miter gauge on your table saw to that angle and cut both ends. After all piece are cut, use your dowel jig to drill holes and glue, join, and clamp the back together.
Allow to dry. Line the x back up with the top mortise hole and pencil in the placement of the bottom. Be sure that it is the same distance back as the top. Router. Glue and clamp sides together. Allow to dry. Glue and clamp the rest of the frame together. Clamp.
For the arms, cut the back side on the left and right to fit inside the leg with a jig saw. See picture below.
Use a 3/8″ Forstner bit to drill 3/4 the way through the back of the leg at the height of the arm. Drive screws though the leg into the back of the arm.
Plug holes with 3/8″ dowel rods. Use a hand saw to cut flush. Sand smooth with 120 grit paper.
Add 2 supports from front to back of the seat using the measurement taken from the back stretcher to the front stretcher next to the leg. Drill pocket holes to attach supports to the front and back stretcher. Add 1″ wide scraps along the front and back stretchers. Glue and clamp into place. Add screws. Remove clamps.
See my finish process here. Sand with 120 grit sandpaper. Then again with 220. Wipe down with lint free cloth dampened with mineral spirits. Stain. Allow to dry. Sand with 320. Wipe down again. Seal with 2 coats of exterior grade polyurethane. Allow to dry. Screw on the plywood. Add the cushions.
Take a nap…unless you have young kids…
