While summer hasn’t officially arrived in our neck of the woods, the temperatures and sunshine sure make it feel that way. In northeast Ohio, winter is, by far, the longest season. Because of that, we are hard-pressed to get ready for the next winter during our 3 months of summer. Typically, things are a mess when we take off tarps and spring rains have their way. This year, however, I’m fulfilling a promise to self-made over six years ago to build a DIY patio sectional sofa. Here’s our patio at first glance after we uncover everything and finally start to dry out.
At this point, I’ve cleaned up a bit, added mulch, and a few flowers here and there. Isn’t my table looking mighty worn? I think staining pressure-treated wood never lasts long (even after wood is aged). Whereas a certain product stain doesn’t seem to work on flat surfaces, I’m confident paint will be better based on previous experiences.
DIY TIME
First, it’s time to do some deep cleaning. Because of the way our downspouts empty onto our patio, it makes pressure-washing a necessity. Every other year we do this because the tree droppings and runoff make it kinda gross. eewwww… Last year, I bought this gift to self (aka. electric pressure washer) when I saw it drastically discounted. Anyone else love the therapy of blasting muck off of stuff?
Best part my 6 kids love to help too, so it makes the job even more fun. Many hands make light work is how it goes, right? That is my middle daughter having her turn.
Do you hear that sigh of relief. The pond odor and green cast is now gone. Plus, I hung up my outdoor curtains.
If you remember in a recent post, I built a reclaimed planter for my fence as seen below. In addition, however, I also have a teenie tiny sectional that does not fit my family of 8.
It’s a super cute set that I purchased with my winnings from a Bob Vila contest I won a few years back. After a few years of making it work (and saving my pennies), I have been waiting to build my very own DIY patio sectional. I’ve been requesting it for my birthday for a few years, so since it wasn’t going to happen unless I did something, today’s the day.
NEXT STEPS
Next, per my normal, I’m working hard on my birthday just like last birthday when I was spray painting inside our garden shed remodel. Thankfully, we are able to make use of Ana White’s fantastic site offering free build plans. We’ve used her bench plan for our patio table.
For our needs, however, we are changing the plans up a bit to suit our space and the dimensions. I found that the seat she built was 25″ which is fine. However, I couldn’t find a seat cushion for just the seat for less than $70. Whereas the 24″, I found a seat and back cushion set for $50. BINGO for me. As an offset, lumber is ridiculously expensive now, so we spent about $300 in lumber and screws. Your cost would depend on the size you are building. Here’s how we altered the setup using all 2″ x 4″s.
BUILD ADJUSTMENTS
- Seat frame:
- 2 – 23″
- 2 – 21″
- Seat legs:
- 2 – 13 ½”
- 2 – 27 ½”
- Top of Rear Legs: 1 – 24″ (connected with pocket joints from underneath)
- Outer Seat Trim: 2 – 24″ (2″x 2″)
- Seat Slats: 7 – 21″ (approx. 3/8″ space between each)
- 6 slats connect to trim with pocket screws underneath
- 1 slat connects at seat rear with pocket screws
- assemble seat slats to trim pieces, then connect to frame with pocket screws
- Corner:
- Legs: 2 – 27 ½”
- Top: 1 – 28″
- Seat Apron: 2 – 22 ½”
Again, I can’t say enough how awesome it is to have our kids pulling up the rear in all projects we do. While we are building like crazy folks, my younger set of kids tackle sanding down our patio table set. They’re not new to my tools or to hard work. What a crew! We’ve had seemingly endless days of rain here with more on the way. So, their help is like gold to get this done quickly.
After the sanding is done, I paint the tops with a fresh color that will be easy to wipe down and update my set. Likewise, my pallet reclaimed wood coffee table that houses two antique washtubs for storage needs rebuilt. So, I get that done as well.
SPRAY TIME
Then, I got into a rhythm, we complete the set and take a deep breath of relief. Seating for 8, please!
*post sponsored by HomeRight (see full disclosure)
Isn’t it gorgeous? The wood is pretty green yet from treatment. However, I’m confident the stain I’m using is perfect. Finally, it’s now time to bring out one of my favorite tools, my sprayer. As you know if you’ve hung around me for long, I’m smitten with sprayers. They make jobs a breeze! (literally)
To start, I turn the set upside down to knock out the bottoms first. I fill up the canister following manufacturer instructions on thinning. When spraying, it’s best to start spraying before hitting your project, then continue off. Also, hinge at your shoulder and not your elbow or wrist. This promotes even coverage and a great workflow.
Notice I’m using the same color stain as I use on my pergola. I love that dark color called Cordovan Brown. My first coat is on in less than 30 minutes, and no having to brush in those slats just like in my mudroom makeover. woot! I quickly apply the second coat in two hours and my set is stained and ready to go in less than half a day. I may have stood on it and did a happy dance!!
THE REVEAL
Finally, after a bit more cleaning up and elbow grease, our DIY patio sectional is ready for those long summer days of fun.
That feeling of our family team working together to make this happen is surreal. I have the best gang! Bonus, my birthday gift to self is finally complete so we can all sit together.
Also, my coffee table is rebuilt for many more years, and my patio table and benches look renewed.
Who’s coming for dinner? We’re ready! This is surely a set that will last us for ages as long as we take care of it. In addition to the added function on our patio, we saved HUGE. These sets were way more affordable for the 24″ size than if we had built them to have a 25″ cushion.
Aside from just getting this done for our enjoyment’s sake, I truly want to inspire you to give building a try. With basic 2″ x 4″s, and a set of tools, the sky’s the limit. All you need is the willingness to learn, and time invested.
SHARE
In addition to leaving a comment below, do pin and share to inspire others. I’m sure there are others out there who would love this too!
Up next, this vintage glass tray is about to get a makeover. See the end result HERE.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
Also, more build plans for your outdoor decor like this DIY patio sectional:
Your yard looks great! I would use the painter to paint some small tables.
Thanks! We just love being outdoors. Sounds good, MaryAnn!
Your patio looks Awesome. Great job.
Both our decks is in need staining so the sprayer sure would be handy in spraying our decks in stead of using brushes.
Yes, lumber has really gone up drastically
Thank you for this wonderful giveaway opportunity
Thank you, Colleen. It’s finally feeling normal out there. haha. You’re most welcome. I know you’ll make good use of the Super Finish Max.
Thank you for the plans!
You bet! We have custom requests coming in…haha.
You did a fantastic job with your new sectional. I love how the entire family knows how to DIY and gets the patio looking like it is all brand new. Thanks for always having such good give aways. I am still hoping to win a sprayer for numerous projects.
Having them around to laugh and help work is the BEST GIFT EVER. Nothing made my birthday sweeter than being with the ones I love. Thanks for the smiles, Susie!
Your patio looks so inviting and your new sectional so comfy!!! Your family is great in helping you with your projects.
A paint sprayer would be handy right now as I have just sanded our outdoor table and it will need a new finish! Thank you for the opportunity to win this awesome giveaway!!!
Thank you, Ginny. They are the absolute best! 😀
Oooh…sounds like the perfect project.
Love love the sectional! That blue is my favorite color!
That color makes me smile! Thanks, Deb.
Looks so inviting! Our fence could use a new coat of paint
I’m happy to hear that, Lisa. Thank you.
Wow!!! Just… WOW!!!! I’m in the process of pulling out the HomeRight spray painter ( that I won during one of your amazing giveaways!!! ?) to paint all of my outdoor furniture as well. I’m only wish I had a team as awesome as yours!!! It looks amazing and is so much ch sturdier than anything you could buy!!! ?
tee hee! I’m so stoked you have one. It is da BOMB. Wish you were closer so we could come help!
Beautiful project! Love how your family is involved.
Thank you, Cindy. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Making memories is where it’s at.
Great job…everything looks wonderful. Where did you get the cushions….they go so well with you outdoor colors.
Thank you, Karen. I wanted a printed cushion so that wear would be less visible. I got them at a local home improvement store.
I love your new sectional, the cushions are so pretty.
Thank you for the kind words, Nancy. I’m so smitten with how comfy they are!
I have a large spool that I want to make into an end table/mini library with books going around the outside. A friend that works for a cable company gave it to me.
That’s awesome.
I have a few small projects this would be great for, but I think the biggest thing I would use this for is to paint my house. My house is brick and was painted when I bought it, so when I repaint this would a heck of a lot easier.
You ain’t kiddin’! I hand-painted my house two coats by myself before I had this sprayer. Nevah again. You’ll love this tool!
Another super successful project! Looks amazing! I don’t have a crew like you do, so wining the paint sprayer would be a Godsend! Here’s praying! Love and wishes for all good things to you and yours.
Wahoooo!! Thank you, Linda. Wish my crew and I could help you and that I had a sprayer for everyone. 😉
Your yard is beautiful! It looks so inviting! Thank you for sharing your talents and gifts.
You are so sweet to say so, Lynne. Thank you.
It is so encouraging to see your children come to the point that they can take over certain jobs, isn’t it!!!??? My older fellas are getting there and it’s a gift and joy (and encouraging to see mom and dad investment bring fruit, since parenting payoffs can take a while!). The patio looks just lovely; hope it’s the spot for many happy memories!
Yes! My oldest kids are off working on their jobs, so seeing my younger ones step up is so rewarding. Thanks for the love, Amanda.
Wow. You guys did a FANTASTIC job! I love it. Huge pergola, huge table, now a huge sectional… Gorgeous!
wahoo!! Huge is the way to go, don’t ya know? haha. Thanks so much, Becky.
I love everything about this! From the colors you chose, to having your family help. It’s all very inspiring!
You’ve made my day, Vicki. It’s truly a blessing to have them all around me. Thank you!
Your patio is so cozy and inviting! I could sit out there for hours reading and enjoying nature. Great job!!
We have plenty of room! 😀 Thank you, Lori.
Awesome job you guys!
High five! Thank you, Constance!
I love how you always dive in and create those great projects! You are very inspiring to the rest of us!
I’ve been wanting a sprayer and spray shelter for a while. I feel I would get a lot of use out of them as you do. I’m saving my pennies!!
What can I say…I love a challenge, and love creating stuff better than box store worthy. 😉 Thank you, Barbara.
You have everything looking so nice out there now. Makes me tired just to think about it. Congratulations on a great project that I am certain your family will enjoy. I am going to need to spend most of my summer painting home projects. I started doing the prep and about three years ago to restore my mother’s/great-grandmother’s old Singer machine cabinet. There are some areas that will certainly be much easier to paint if I can spray and don’t have to reach them by hand.
It sure feels good to have this part done. We have more to do, but it will come over the next few months. I know what you mean about spraying. The slats on these seats would have been killer without the sprayer.
Love your seating project! I would like to refinish my dining room chairs. It would be so much easier with a sprayer.
Thank you. We do too! You are so right. Chairs are awful to tackle without a sprayer.
WOW! What a fantastic job with your new sectional! The patio looks brand new. Thanks for option to win thegive aways.
Blessings!
Christine
I’m totally stoked we have it done…finally! 😀 Thank you, Christine. I’d give one to everyone if I could!
I would love to redo our deck with the sprayer if we won!
That would be sweet. Hope you like our sectional too! 😉
Wow! What a difference! I’d tackle some outdoor gliders that need a little refresh
Thanks! I have my fire pit furniture to do too. 😉
So many things to love about your outdoor space. So much to admire about your family dynamic. My husband is worrying that I’ll paint everything in sight if I have a sprayer in my hand. (Smart guy!)
haha! He is right. It literally is addictive because all the projects you put off because of the thought of brushing them taking forever now disappear. Thanks for the smiles, Amy. 😀
Larissa, its all beautiful! How wonderful to have all the family involved! Love it!
Thank you so much. Not all were pictured, but all 8 of us played a part. Best feeling ever!
Larissa, I absolutely love how the sectional turned out! Your patio is gorgeous! I’m sure you and yours will make a lot of precious memories there this summer!! So sweet of you Momma to make sure all of your kiddos have a comfy spot to sit! I think I would probably start small with the Homelight sprayer and tackle an outside bench that needs preserving. Then maybe something on a larger scale! Keep your posts coming love them all!
You are such a fun gal, Holly. Yes, we can finally sit together to dine and chat. I know these days pass all too quickly. I love your attitude!
Wow! What an awesome family effort! The results are amazing. Such a fun space to hang out! I’d like the sprayer to handle my crafting projects.
Thanks! Our warm months are so short, we love to be outside as much as possible. Sounds like you’d put the sprayer to great use.
This year I want to tackle the bricks in the front of my townhouse. It’s not a huge project, but painting by sprayer would certainly be better than by roller.
I couldn’t agree more, Annette. I painted my entire house by hand two coats…never again.
Well done, ma’am! It all looks absolutely fabulous!
Good luck to the winner of your awesome give-away. I will forgo as we have something similar – but it sure is a GREAT
thing to own – esp if it is won!!!! : – )
Hope you are having a wonderful week! I am in north Columbus – so I actually cringed just thinking about winter – sigh.
NO one understands unless they live in weather such as ours. These perfect weather days the last couple? We only get a few of them. I was outside for hours today, into the night in my covered patio with candles lit – it was pure heavenly bliss! Enjoy your beautiful outdoor space! You have it looking great.
You are so right on all accounts. Savoring these days is what I am trying to do for sure. Plus, these kids of mine will be grown before I blink! 😀 Thank you for the kind words, Michele.
Love the makeover and outdoor sofa situation and thanks for the giveaway!! If I were to win I would paint a vintage Cosco kitchen stool I got for a song several years ago. Thanks again!!
I’ m glad you like it…we’re in love! 😀 I’d be ecstatic if I could get a sprayer into the hands of everyone. They’re the best!
You do amazing work! The patio looks great. If I won the sprayer, I’d start with our new yard barn. It’ll get painted regardless, but how much easier with that sprayer?
That is awesome of you to say, Toni. Thank you. I totally agree…why waste the sweat and energy! Plus the sprayer is more efficient with use of stain and paint too.
Wow Larissa! The sectional is fantastic! The cushions are so pretty too! I also think the picnic table ties in well with your faux fireplace. Handy to have the sprayer to make quick work of all that finishing! I would use the sprayer on a buffet in my dining room first!
Thanks! I actually am still debating on painting the fireplace because it’s worn off as well. Hmmm… haha.
Your buffet project will be perfect, Audra. 😀
Your pergola area is so inviting. This is my goal for next year to build a sectional on my deck. Let’s hope wood cost drop by then. Having the plans with the cut sizes will make this project easier.
That’s what we’re after, so I’m glad we achieved it. Thank you, Jenni. Yes, I was shocked at the cost, but thankful I had saved up enough to finally get it done. Enjoy!
Absolutely beautiful. Would love to have mine look as good as your so I am going to work on mine today thanks to you sharing the wonderful job your family did together. Love all you do and look forward to all of your blogs..
Have a great creative day or better yet give yourself a do nothing day and relax.
So sweet of you to say, Cathy. Thank you! You’ve made my day. Hugs!
Wow! Larissa your new patio set is awesome! What a great birthday gift to yourself! I love the colors you chose, so summery! I would love that sprayer to finish my kitchen chairs lol. Have a great summer!
Thanks! I’m glad it won’t blow away. haha. It’s fun to get things done DIY style.
Beautiful ! I’m having to re do my picnic table this year too. I’m a newbie at this stuff, a sprayer would be awesome to get the job done.
Love the cushions and pillows. If I had a sprayer, I don’t know what I would paint first. I have so many project pieces that I keep thinking that I will get done but never do!!
I know the feeling! It’s always something for sure.
As always you did an awesome job! You are so blessed to have so many helping hands.
Indeed a blessing for sure. Thanks!
Love the outdoor sofa. It looks great and easy to make. I would use the sprayer to paint my porch. It would take less time
than doing it by hand. Thanks for the chance to win.
It is pretty straightforward. Thanks!
Yes, it sure would.
Would like to repaint some of our old furniture.
Your backyard is amazing. I need the plans for your Pergola. I love everything you shared here.
That is awesome to hear. Thank you for the smile, Denise!
Your pergola and outdoor seating for eight is awesome! Your yard is absolutely beautiful and how smart to make your own custom sectional because they cost a small fortune now to buy them! ?
Right? This mama doesn’t have that much dough! haha. Although lumber is ridiculous now too. Thanks, Denise!
Just came across your patio update don’t know how i missed it. What a “haven of rest.” The new furniture is so beautiful and comfy looking! I know it was a lot of collective hard work & the reward is enjoying it together! Personally I’m a big aqua fan so to me it’s a jewel to behold. Lots of great ideas to borrow. We have a large square patio that came with our house so my mind is at work 😉
Oooh…exciting you have a spot to your own as well. We do love ours and have had many family memories out there. This year, however, we’ve had trials which have not allowed us the time. But, there’s always next year!