From the bedroom to the family room to the hall, this handsome blanket chest and seat project is practical for almost any room in the house. Combining traditional styling with plenty of storage under a hinged seat, the chest holds everything from bedding and clothes to toys, boots and umbrellas. And no matter where you put it, an extra seat always comes in handy.
A great project for beginners, the chest is built from 18 board feet of oak and a sheet of matching plywood (other species will work just as well). The project calls for mostly straight cuts, and the few curved cuts are traced from full-size patterns.
Construction is simple. First, measure, trace and cut everything out and assemble the main section of the project–essentially a rectangular box–using glue and nails. Next, add the back rest, arm supports and arm rests. Finally, install the lid, add trim pieces and apply finish as preferred.
The blanket chest and bench measures about 48 inches long by 19 inches deep by 36 inches tall at the back.
The Blanket Chest and Bench plan (No. 789) includes step-by-step instructions with photos, traceable patterns, construction diagrams, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.