Kid Size Benches Made in a Weekend

This is a truly great weekend project, because the project doesn't start from scratch. It is easy to find what is needed and it makes a clever child's bench to sit on and store items in. Here is the list of supplies:

*upper kitchen cabinet
*paint
*paint brushes
*bun feet
*out door fabric
* scissors
*batting
*screws
*screwdriver
*pre-cut plywood for seat
*wood block
*carpenters glue
*staple gun

1. The treasure hunt begins. Look for an upper cabinet. They can be found at garage sales, overstock, or they may be purchases from a contractor or home supply store. It should measure about 16 inches high and 12 inches deep.

2. If the color of the cabinet is not to your liking paint the cabinet and the bun feet to match. Allow to dry completely.

3. Attach the bun feet to the cabinet to raise it off the floor. Screw the foot the the center of the wood block and then screw through the floor of the cabinet on each corner of the wood block.

4. Find outdoor fabric that will last and be easy to clean. It will be attached to the seat and can not be removed for washing. If it gets to worn it will have to be replaced, so get something that will last. Cut the fabric to cover the seat with a four inch allowance.

5. Staple to layers of batting directly to the seat. Lay the seat, batting side down in the center of the fabric. Pull opposite sides to the back and staple. The goal in to get a tight and wrinkle free fit.

6. Attach the seat to the cabinet bench with wood glue.

It becomes an easy storage place by adding a couple of baskets to hold items in the cabinet.

Another good idea is an out door bench that is just the perfect size for the children. A stone bench is easy to make and will last for generations. Visit a local quarry and pick up two block stones and a slab. The workers at the quarry can help select the proper items.

Make sure the blocks are level. They can be cemented in or just placed in the ground. They will settle some, but usually not enough to be a problem for the bench. It is one of those indestructible options. Make sure to place low enough they can climb on and off. Some prefer a wooden bench on top of the stone blocks. This option will require more upkeep to get rid of splinters and wear and tear.

Having child friendly options are a good idea for parents and grandparents alike. It lets the children know they have a place of their own in the home and the yard.