Save Money By Making Outdoor Furniture

Adirondack-style outdoor furniture has long been a favorite because of its built-in comfort, durability and good looks. The style reaches back into American history, and its name comes from the mountain range in New York, which in turn is derived from a Mohawk word meaning “they eat bark.”

Unfortunately, the cost of fine Adirondack-style furniture has risen steadily since those early days. Fortunately, however, this type of furniture is pretty simple to make, so there’s no reason to pay a lot.

The set shown here is built from standard pine and fir and requires no special tools. All the pieces are simply traced onto wood from full-size patterns, cut out and sanded. Holes are then drilled where shown, and the pieces are assembled with brass or plated carriage bolts and wood screws. Finally, paint, stain or whitewash (for a “distressed” look) is applied.

The love seat measures about 46 inches long by 38 inches tall by 39 inches deep.

The four plans of the Adirondack Quartet, No. C64, are $18.95. Each plan includes full-size traceable patterns, step-by-step instructions with photos, detailed diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule. Plans for the Adirondack Chair (No. 55) and Love Seat (No. 805) are $7.95 each. The Table (No. 813) and Footrest (No. 802) are $5.95 each.

In addition, a catalog picturing hundreds of other do-it-yourself projects, including many outdoor furniture projects, is available for $3.95. Prices include postage and handling (for first-class mail, add $1 per item up to $3 maximum).

MEMO: To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Please specify plan numbers.