Today’s project

Like an Adirondack chair or a lawn glider swing, a tree seat is an American classic that makes a charming (and useful) addition to any yard or garden. A great spot for outdoor entertaining during warm weather, a tree seat also adds a nice shady seat perfect for whiling away long, sunny afternoons.

What you need

Built from redwood as pictured (other wood like cedar, pine or treated lumber will also work), this do-it-yourself version is a good weekend project for woodworkers of any skill level. Designed to last for many years on a sturdy base of 2-by-4’s, the tree seat utilizes all straight cuts with full-size patterns for the angles.

To simplify construction, the project is assembled in halves. Once complete, the halves are then positioned around the tree and screwed together. The tree seat stands about 36 inches tall, and the diameter can be adjusted depending on the size of the tree trunk.

The Tree Seat plan, No. 911, is $9.95 and includes complete step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, a construction diagram, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

To order the plan

A package of outdoor furniture plans, No. C94, is $25.95 and includes this project plus plans for an outdoor rocking chair, a lawn glider swing and a glider settee. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

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, 15241 Stagg St., Van Nuys, CA 91405.

To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the Web at u-bild.com.