Outdoor Projects
DIY Side By Side Patio Chairs
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BLACK+DECKER B+D Contributor 126 Projects
You can share a view, some shade, and a table for snacks and a beverage with a friend when you’ve got this side-by-side patio chair in your backyard. You might recognize the design, as it was inspired by the side-by-side chairs that were often included in the ubiquitous redwood patio sets popular in the ’50s and ’60s. Those sets typically included a lounge chair, some small tables, a patio table with an umbrella holder, and a side-by-side table and chair similar to the one shown here.
You’ll find that these seats are most comfortable when they’re appointed with cushions, but they’re still easy to enjoy when left bare. And just about any patio table umbrella can be used with this set—simply size the umbrella post hole to fit. The optional umbrella should also be secured in a weighted base that is placed under the table.
Even a beginner can build this side-by-side chair in a day using less than $100 in materials. It’s easiest to build if you have a table saw, miter saw, jigsaw, and router. If you don’t have a table saw, then you can use a circular saw to rip the 2 x 4 frame pieces down to 3" widths. The purpose for these parts being 3" wide is to give the set a more refined appearance, but you can simplify the design and avoid rip cuts by using full width 2 x 4s. If you choose to use full-width 2 x 4s, then you must move the front rail notch up 1⁄2" and the seats will end up being a 1⁄2" higher.
