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How to Build a Mini Picnic Bench

Build a sturdy mini picnic bench for kids with this beginner-friendly DIY guide. Step-by-step instructions using Evolution Power Tools.

June 3, 2025 Megan Curtis

Looking for a fun, practical woodworking project that’s perfect for beginners and delivers big smiles? This mini picnic bench is just the thing. Built from scratch using a few simple tools and standard timber, it’s the ideal weekend project for DIYers - especially those with little helpers at home. 

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or weekend maker, this child-sized bench offers a perfect introduction to DIY furniture making using Evolution Power Tools. It's sturdy, safe, and scaled just right for kids to enjoy outdoor snacks, crafts, or playtime.

Watch the video below for a detailed step-by-step guide with Joe Whitaker. There are some notes and diagrams below for extra help.

 

🔧 Tools & Materials You’ll Need

Tools:

  • Mitre saw
  • Drill/driver
  • Circular saw
  • Tape measure & pencil

Materials:

  • Screws
  • Decking boards x 5 - 2.4m x 95mm x 20mm (~£6 per board)
  • Exterior Treated CLS timber x 3 - 2.4M x 89mm x 38mm (~£10 per board)

Extras & Optional:

  • Jigsaw
  • Sander
  • Wood glue
  • Exterior wood stain or paint
  • Protective gear (goggles, gloves, dust mask)

 

📐 Step-by-Step Guide: Building the Kids’ Picnic Bench

1) Cut Your Timber to Size

Start by measuring and cutting the wood to these dimensions:

  • Legs x 4 (CLS): 60cm long with 30° angles on each end
  • Leg braces & cross supports x 4(CLS): 2 x 45cm & 2 x 96cm
  • Seat slats x 4 (decking): 90cm long
  • Tabletop slats x 5 (decking): 90cm long

2. Assemble the Legs & Horizontal Supports 

Each pair of legs, connected with two horizontal supports, forms an “A” frame. 

3.  Attach the Benches

Secure the seat slats to the bench frame. Remember to leave around a 4cm overhang on each side. 

4.  Attach the Tabletop

Attach the 5 tabletop slats to the frame, with small gaps between each slat, and an overhang to match the benches.

5. Finishing Touches (Optional but recommended)

Give your kids' bench a polished, professional look with these final details:

  • Trim the edges: Use a circular saw to straighten or neaten any uneven overhangs
  • Round sharp corners: A jigsaw is perfect for adding smooth, curved edges to the tabletop and seats - safer for little ones
  • Smooth the surfaces: Sand down any rough patches or sharp edges with a sander or sanding block
  • Protect and personalise: Finish with a weatherproof, child-safe paint or wood stain. Choose bright colours or even add names and fun stencils to make it one-of-a-kind.

💡 Why This Project is Great for Beginners

  • Simple materials: All parts are cut from common-size timber.
  • Straightforward construction: No advanced joinery required.
  • Customisable: Paint it in bright colours or stencil your child’s name. 

🎉 Final Thoughts

Building a mini picnic bench is a great way to practice essential woodworking skills - from accurate cutting to structural assembly. With Evolution Power Tools by your side, you’ll get precise results and enjoy the process from start to finish. Plus, there's nothing more rewarding than seeing your kids use something you made with your own hands.

Ready to get started? Grab your tools and make something amazing today!

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