Picture it, fresh powder on the slopes, scenic views, and the sound of the birds chirping while you ski. Now you can create your own little heaven with this unique project.
All you need is 10 feet of 2x4s and 10 feet of 3x3s with the crosswise grain to make a stylish and functional ski-in/ski-out outdoor wood bench.
It not only looks great but also provides you with some great benefits. You can use it as a seating area for two or three people to enjoy a romantic dinner or a cold one with a friend. When it comes time for some serious skiing, you can pull it in between the snowboard and the ski boot and store your skis. There are also plans to make this a dining table which can be used at night since it is dark outside anyway so there is no chance of anyone tripping over the electrical cord. Even better, if you decide to use natural materials such as cedar or redwood, you can achieve a high-end look that will last for years to come.
Table of Contents
Why Make A Bench Out Of Skis?
Benches are an invaluable part of any outdoor space. They offer added seating as well as a place for relaxing, reading, and even sunbathing. If you have the space, consider making two or three benches to create a cozy sit-together area for friends and family to enjoy the outdoors.
What if I told you there was a way to make a bench out of your skis? Wouldn’t it be amazing to pull them in between the boot and your snowboard, lean back, and enjoy the ride?
You can certainly accomplish this feat, but you need to use some major spatial skillz. Let’s take a look.
The First Step: Pick The Right Spot
When choosing the spot for your bench, you need to bear in mind several things. First, you want to find a flat area for the structure to rest on. Second, you want to find a position that offers you some protection from the wind. Third, you don’t want to put the structure in a location that will be damaged by weather conditions (i.e. heavy snow or extreme cold).
Since you will be adding your own personal touches to the project, consider the spot where you put it. You can also embellish it with some colorful planters or flower pots to make it more inviting. When picking out your spot, you also need to pick a comfortable place for the person next to you. If you are on your own, you can put in a request for a roommate so you can split the cost of the project.
The Second Step: Measure And Cut The 2x4s
The first step in making your bench is to measure and cut the 2x4s. You want to begin by measuring the distance from the front of the snowboard to the back and cutting the 2x4s to size. Next, measure the distance from the top of the snowboard to the bottom and cut the board to size.
When you are done measuring and cutting, cut the 2x4s to shape (if you are going to use an arc saw, this is the time to do it). Use a handsaw to create a smooth and clean cut if you are using a regular saw. Finally, cut the 2x4s at a 45 degree angle to create a flat surface for the structure to sit on.
The Third Step: Make The 3x3s
Like the 2x4s, the 3x3s will provide the base for your structure. However, unlike the 2x4s, you will not be cutting these boards to size. You want to begin by measuring the length and width of each board and using those measurements to create a rough sketch of the shape you want your structure to take on. Next, use a jigsaw to cut out the shape you drew (make sure the carving is at least 1-1/2 inches deep). Finally, sand the outside of the 3x3s to obtain a smooth surface and to make them fit together perfectly.
When you are done, the 3x3s should look like they belong to a single piece. Assembling them will be quick and simple because the boards are already in place.
The Fourth Step: Assemble The Skis
For this step, you will need to assemble the skis. Begin by placing one board on top of the other — the wider board on the bottom and the narrower board on top. Make sure the edges of the 2x4s are facing up and that there is an even gap between each board. Next, slide the skis into the boot and tighten the fit by sliding a tool along the inside of the boot. Check for tightness and repeat the process with the other ski. When you are done, you should have a nice snug fit between the snowboard and the boot.
Now that you have all your components, it’s time to put them together. Begin by placing the 2x4s and the 3x3s in the order listed in the previous step. Slide the second board on top of the first and tighten the fit by placing your foot on it (if you are standing in front of it).
Look how easy it is to make a bench out of your skis. All you need is a flat, smooth surface, some wooden boards, and a little bit of elbow grease. With this project, you can create a unique piece of art that will be treasured for years to come.