Convertible Bench

Instructions

The video and plans are pretty good and make it a pretty simple build. Simple...but be prepared, it is time consuming...you need 45 bench seat pieces and 8 bench support pieces. Definitely check out the video before you get started so you have a better idea of what you need to do. The plans call for a pipe with an OD of 2 1/4". I had a stainless steel pipe that had an OD of 2". So...I have included two sets of files...one with a 2 1/4" OD hole and one for a 2" OD hole. I cut one of the bench supports and one of the bench seat pieces using the SO and then used them as a template for the rest of the pieces and used the same technique outlined in the video. You can download the PDF files for a cut diagram. I also used the SO to cut the spacers using the onboard tools (it seemed like a lot less hassle than using two hole saws). Just make sure you match the inside hole with the size of the pipe you are using and cut the inside hole first. I also used a round-over bit on my router table to give each finished piece a nice smooth edge prior to sanding and finishing. When you are putting this together make sure that the bench seat pieces are facing the correct way so that the bench works correctly (it is a pain to take the whole thing apart and start over when...I mean if...you do it incorrectly the first time)