DIY Plans to Build a Lilley Bench

A Simple, Sturdy, and Stunning Bench

Hey there! I just wanted to share my thoughts on this awesome bench I came across. I absolutely love the style – it’s got this cool mix of Greek Key and Asian vibes that really make it stand out. Plus, the best part is that you can easily build it yourself with these DIY plans that are super simple and won’t break the bank. The seat is even upholstered and can be tufted to your liking. It’s such a versatile piece too – you can use it as a bench or even as a coffee table with some extra cushions. Definitely worth checking out!

Materials:

• 2″ pocket hole screws
• 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
• 3″ thick upholstery foam at 36″ x 60″ (two layers of 1-1/2″ foam will work as well)
• Upholstery batting
• 2 yards of 54″ or 60″ wide decorator fabric
• 1″ screws and washers, and buttons to cover, if tufting the seat
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
• Finishing supplies (primer & paint, or stain, sealer)

Lumber:

• 9 – 2×2 at 8′
• 1 – 4′ x 8′ sheet of 3/4″ plywood

Cut List:

• 4 – 2×2 at 18″ – Legs
• 2 – 2×2 at 57″ – Side Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 20-1/2″ – Side Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 9″ – Side Frames
• 2 – 2×2 at 36″ – Side Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 3″ – Side Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 33″ – End Frames & Seat Supports
• 4 – 2×2 at 10-1/2″ – End Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 9″ – End Frames
• 2 – 2×2 at 18″ – End Frames
• 4 – 2×2 at 3″ – End Frames
• 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 36″ x 60″ – Seat

Step One

Cut the pieces for the legs and the side frames. With the pocket hole jig set for 1-1/2″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of the 57″ pieces, the 20-1/2″ pieces, and the 36″ pieces. Drill pocket holes in one long edge of the 57″ pieces to attach the seat when the bench frame is assembled. Drill pocket holes in one end only of the 9″ pieces. Assemble the side frames as shown using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the end frames and seat supports. Drill pocket holes in each end of the 18″ pieces (there are six of them) and the 10-1/2″ pieces. Drill pocket holes in one long edge of the 18″ pieces to attach the seat when the bench frame is assembled. Drill pocket holes in one end only of the 9″ pieces. Assemble the ends as shown using glue and 2-1/2″ pocket hole screws.

Step Three

Cut the piece for the seat. Cut the 3″ foam to the same size as the seat. Wrap the foam with the batting and the fabric, then staple to the underside of the board for the seat. If tufting the seat, do so using the 1″ screws and washers before stapling the fabric and batting to the underside of the seat piece.

Finish the frame as desired. Position the seat on the frame securing in place using 2″ pocket hole screws.

This would be a great bench at the foot of a bed or as mentioned above, a fabulous upholstered coffee table. Leave a comment below if there are any questions about the DIY plans to build a Lilley Bench!