Build a bench with cubbies

Difficulty:

Close Difficulty

Beginner Do-It-Yourselfer - Easy

Intermediate Do-It-Yourselfer - Moderate

Experienced Do-It-Yourselfer - Difficult

Professional - Expert
Completion Time : 1 day

Placed under a window, television or beside the fireplace, a multiple-cubby bench is useful for storing everyday items. Don’t limit yourself to one; they’re a handy and versatile option for the whole house!

This cubby bench measures 15 ¾" x 97 1/2" x 19" and is built from solid maple boards and maple-finish plywood. A distinguishing feature: it’s assembled almost entirely using wood biscuits, so joints are invisible. Since using a biscuit joiner requires some experience, this one-day job is better suited to intermediate DIYers.

Tools and materials required

TOOLS

Mitre saw
Table saw
Biscuit joiner
Screwdriver drill
Square
Pencil
Tape measure

MATERIALS

2 sheets maple-finish plywood, ¾" x 48" X 96"
3 maple boards, 1" x 3" x 96"
148 No. 10 biscuits, ¾" x 2 1/8"
Wood glue
1 ½" No. 8 wood screws

Before Assembly

ELEVATION(S)

Wooden storage bench with cubbies elevation

NOTES

ASSEMBLING FURNITURE WITH WOOD BISCUITS

This sturdy method of assembly involves inserting thin slices of compressed wood (“biscuits”) into slots made with a plate (or biscuit) joiner. When the biscuits come into contact with glue applied in the slots, they swell and stay wedged in place, holding the construction together.

Once you have taken the time to learn how to use a biscuit joiner, the specialized tool required for this type of assembly, you will find it a quick and easy technique.