11 Great DIY Outdoor Seating Ideas (On A Budget)

If you have an outdoor space, then it makes sense to make the most of it. With the right design and furniture, your backyard or porch can feel like an extension of your home, especially when the weather is nice. The only problem is furnishing it with seating can be quite expensive, especially if you are starting from scratch. Luckily, there are some great DIY outdoor seating options for those looking to save money.

To build outdoor seating on a budget, look for cheap and free materials like old headboards and tires, wooden pallets, and stone and cement blocks. You can build benches, couches, and daybeds using stone blocks, pallet boards, or plywood. Consider building a bench around your favorite tree, or installing a tree swing. You can even build a low table and place waterproof cushions around it.

There are hundreds of different types of outdoor seating options you can build. Some of these ideas can even be executed at a low cost, especially if you are willing to put in a bit of labor and do some hunting at local thrift stores. Below is a list of 11 unique, stylish, and practical DIY outdoor seating ideas that could be perfect for your space.

11 Affordable DIY Outdoor Seating Ideas For You

1. Strategically Install Hammocks With DIY Stands

Nothing says outdoor relaxation like a hammock. Not only are hammocks comfortable and often pleasant to look at, but they are often inexpensive. The key to making a hammock a functional mainstay in your outdoor space is to build a durable stand or install reliable hooks.

You can use plywood and wood stain to make an elegant hammock stand that will last for years. Or you can use hooks that can withstand heavy weight and screw them into nearby trees. Alternatively, you can install two poles in your yard with hooks to ensure you always have strong support for your hammocks.

2. Build A Tree Swing Or Two

Another outdoor seating concept that involves suspension is the tree swing. If you have a large tree that provides shade in your yard, then this is a great option for you. You can use all sorts of materials to build the seating portion of your tree swing. 

Opt for a simple bench made of plywood, or you can even repurpose the seats and backs of chairs to build a tree swing with a back support. Use durable rope or chain, connect to one of your tree's strongest branches, and you’ll have a shady and peaceful place to sit for many years to come.

3. Pallet Board Couches

Pallet board furniture has exploded in popularity in the last few years. Since wooden pallets can often be found for free, they have become a budget-friendly DIY staple. There are several ways you can build a DIY pallet board couch for your outdoor space.

The easiest way is to stack and secure a few pallets and fill in the gaps on the top layer. Next, add your weather-proof cushions of choice. 

Alternatively, you can deconstruct the pallets, and create a more elegant and polished product. Either way, make sure you sand the surfaces to avoid splinters in your skin and finish with a wood stain for longevity.

4. Build A Bench Around Your Favorite Tree

One simple yet effective outdoor seating idea that most DIY enthusiasts can accomplish easily is to build a bench around a large shade tree. You can make this wraparound seating area in an octagon or square shape, or even a circular bench if you are willing to put in the effort.

To build the bench, you can use any type of wood that is within your budget. Remember, if you want this labor of love to last, you should opt for less-porous and more dense wood varieties. Regardless of the design and materials, a wrap-around bench under a tree is a great way to provide shady outdoor seating without occupying much real estate.

5. Waterproof Pillows Around A Short Table

If you are looking for a quick and movable outdoor seating option, consider constructing a short table. Think of the tables used in countries like Japan, where guests gather for meals while sitting on pillows and tatami mats.

A short table with pillows around it is a fantastic way to increase seating when you host a gathering. It is also a fairly simple DIY project that yields additional seating. This outdoor dining area can go in your yard, or live on your back porch throughout the warmer months.

6. Use Logs To Make Rustic Chairs

If you have access to logs and are skilled with saws (or know someone who is), then consider building rustic chairs made of logs. As long as the logs are large enough, you can easily make them into chairs. Simply take a log, and then carve an angular seat and back into it. 

These are not the most comfortable chairs for lounging, but they are perfect to place around a firepit or outdoor fireplace. Best of all, they are often free. If you sand them down and add a layer of lacquer, you will increase their longevity, and they will look nicer as well.

7. Build A Picnic Table

A picnic table is the quintessential outdoor seating option. You can entertain a group of six to eight people on a picnic table, and enjoy outdoor meals on them throughout the year. Picnic tables can be purchased, but you can also build one yourself.

Whether you opt for a kit with the pieces ready to build or create your own using one of dozens of DIY picnic table designs, the result will be a functional piece of outdoor seating. If you have the space in your yard, adding a picnic table is always a great idea.

8. Upcycle Old Metal Furniture

If you prefer to improve existing furniture instead of starting from scratch, look for some old cast-iron furniture. Cast-iron furniture, while heavy, is a great material to use for outdoor furniture. It lasts a long time and can hold up in the winter months.

You can take old, even rusted pieces, and give them new life by meticulously sanding them and repainting them. Adding accent pillows and other personal touches can go a long way in rejuvenating these previously shabby pieces.

9. Create Ottomans Using Old Tires And Rope

If you are a fan of ottomans, then hang on to your old tires. You can build a stylish and functional ottoman to assist in outdoor relaxation using old tires and a rope of your choice. To build a rope ottoman, cover the hole in the tire with a piece of wood or durable plastic. 

Next, using glue and patience, cover the tire with rope, using a spiral design. Finish with a waterproof spray coating and you have yourself a rustic yet chic outdoor ottoman to rest your feet on or use as a chair.

10. Cinder Block Benches With Waterproof Cushions 

If you would rather build with blocks than work with wood, then build a block bench or daybed in your outdoor area. You can use stone blocks, bricks, cinder blocks, or whatever cheap or free materials you can find. 

After stacking them to the desired height and securing them, all you need to build is a cushion to go over the top. Cover it with a waterproof material, and you have yourself a sturdy and comfortable bench or daybed.

11. Create A Bench Using An Old Headboard

One fun DIY outdoor furniture hack is to use an old decorative headboard as the backing of a bench. If you already have a bench, or can easily build a simple one, this is a great option. Find an elegant wooden headboard, and attach it to your bench. This works great when you have a bench set against the wall of a porch. It will make your simple DIY bench look regal and store-bought.

Wrapping Up DIY Outdoor Furniture Ideas On A Budget

If you have an outdoor space but don’t have the money to buy expensive new outdoor furniture, then consider some DIY alternatives. You can build chairs using large logs, or benches and couches made of wooden palettes of cement blocks. Look for old cast-iron furniture that you can sand and refinish, or simply hang hammocks throughout your yard. Look for cheap and free building materials, and scour your local thrift stores to find great deals on furniture you can upcycle.

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• Patio Furniture That Can Be Left Outside In The Winter