In the family room, the piece can store magazines and provide extra seating. Construction is basic. The only tools required are a circular saw, a saber saw, and a hammer. The two aprons notch into the ends for added strength. Cleats cut from scrap wood are nailed to each end to support the shelf.
Assembly involves wood glue and nails.
This example has one of our favorite finishes. The bench was sanded and then painted with a cream-colored latex. After that dried, a coat of blue was brushed on. The piece can be given a coat of clear or tinted paste wax for protection. P.O. Box 523, Birmingham, AL 35201 .