Lawn Chair

Difficulty Rating: *** (one asterisk is least difficult, four asterisks is most difficult)

The chairs are simple to build, and you'll enjoy them even more knowing you made them yourself.

The basic design is familiar, but we've added a Southern touch: The wide, tapering back boards are spread in a fan shape to give them a softer, rounder look. The same shape is used for the armrest, so all the boards can be cut from the same pattern. The armrests are level, and the rounded end is wide enough to hold a glass or plate.

The chairs are made from clear cedar except for the 1 x 6 seat supports, which are treated pine for extra strength and long life. The painted finish hides the fact that they are different woods. If redwood is more readily available in your area, you may prefer to use it instead of cedar; it has about the same look. If possible, use all-heart cedar or redwood; these are more resistant to rot than sapwood. Or, if you prefer, you can use treated pine for the whole thing. It is less expensive and lasts longer than cedar and redwood. However, treated pine is difficult to cut smoothly, does not sand well, and is much heavier than cedar. You should be able to make this chair with hand tools. However, a table saw or radial arm saw will make cutting the tapered boards for the arms and back much easier.

This plan is available via e-mail as a printable PDF. To order send a $4 check made payable to Southern Living Projects and your e-mail address to: Lawn Chair Project, Southern Living Projects, P.O. Box 11407, Lockbox 1014, Birmingham, AL 35246-1014. If you prefer to receive a copy by regular mail, include a self-addressed, stamped (with two first-class, letter-rate stamps), business-size envelope with your check. Allow four to six weeks for delivery.

If you have any questions concerning project plans, please send us an e-mail.