Build a Breakfast Booth Bench

This cozy seat is fun and offers storage underneath  
by John White

Have an empty nook that could use a little inspiration? Follow along as John White, shop foreman at Yestermorrow Design/Build School, builds the breakfast booth featured in the Fine Homebuilding article Breakfast-Booth Basics. This hour-long video tutorial (divided into segments below) demonstrates how to make a built-in featuring sturdy, straightforward construction details. White’s tips will benefit even the most-experienced carpenters.

To learn more about the design principles of this bench, variations of this design and sources for foam cushions, read Breakfast-Booth Basics from Fine Homebuilding's Annual Kitchens & Baths Issue, #191 (Fall/Winter 2007), pp.91-95.

Follow this 14-part step-by-step video tutorial

Step  1:   Build a circular saw jig3:09
Step  2:   Make a box for the base unit5:01
Step  3:   Install sliding drawer tracks7:51
Step  4:   Build and install a drawer5:35
Step  5:   Install the seat top2:37
Step  6:   Build a jig for tappered cuts2:55
Step  7:   Install the base unit trim3:39
Step  8:   Add trim to the leg supports7:12
Step  9:   Install drawer front faces3:48
Step 10:  Determine the angle for the back2:56
Step 11:  Cut a back for the bench3:21
Step 12:  Mount the back to the base5:10
Step 13:  Attach trim to the back4:14
Step 14:  Install wainscoting and final finsh3:35
Photo by: Krysta S. Doerfler
From Fine Homebuilding 191 (Kitchens & Baths)
October 5, 2007

Related Topics:
Building | Kitchen Installations | Finish Carpentry | Breakfast Nooks | Cabinets and Built-ins
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