Sturdy 2x4 bench

How to make it

1. 

   1

   Cut the pieces

   Cut 3 seat boards at 45 in, 4 legs at 16 in, 4 rails at 7 1/2 in and 1 stretcher at 39 in. Board 1 gives 2 seats. Board 2 gives a seat, 2 legs and 2 rails. Board 3 gives the rest.

2. 

   2

   Sand everything

   Sand all pieces with 80, then 120 grit. Knock the sharp edges off now. It's harder after assembly.

3. 

   3

   Build the end frames

   Set 2 legs 7 1/2 in apart. Glue a rail between them, flush at the top, wide face up. Drill 1/8 in starter holes and drive two 3 in screws through each leg into the rail.

4. 

   4

   Add the low rails

   Fit a second rail between the legs 4 in above the bottom, the same way. Repeat for the other frame.

5. 

   5

   Add the stretcher

   Stand both frames up. Lay the 39 in stretcher on top of the 2 low rails, flush with their outer faces. Screw down with two 2 1/2 in screws at each end.

6. 

   6

   Attach the seat

   Lay the 3 seat boards across the frames with 3 in hanging past each end. Screw each board into the frame below with two 2 1/2 in screws.

7. 

   7

   Finish it

   Sand the seat once more and apply exterior stain if it'll live outside. Sit on it. It shouldn't rock or creak.