WOOD Magazine’s “Made in the Shade” is a sectional cedar bench designed to surround an existing tree. The shown dimensions fit a trunk up to 20 inches in diameter at ground level; WOOD says the plan explains how to lengthen parts for a larger tree. Measure the trunk before choosing the plan, and use its full instructions for dimensions and quantities.
Will this tree bench fit around my tree?
The design shown is sized for a tree measuring up to 20 inches in diameter at ground level, according to WOOD Magazine’s project page, updated January 16, 2024. Measure the trunk at ground level before deciding whether the published dimensions suit your site.
For a trunk wider than 20 inches, WOOD says the plan explains which parts to lengthen. The project-page summary does not give those revised dimensions, so consult the plan rather than estimating changes from the summary.
What does the woodworking plan include?
The bench is built in sections that can be assembled in the shop and installed outdoors. WOOD also describes simple guides and spacers to help with the angled cuts. The project summary does not specify a saw type or blade; check the full plan for its tool requirements and cutting instructions.
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- Handcrafted Cedar Bench: Expertly crafted from premium Western Red Cedar, this deluxe tree bench features a sanded finish for a smooth, comfortable seating experience in patios, gardens, or backyards
- Durable Construction: The full cedar construction is suitable for outdoor use, providing enduring strength and natural beauty that withstands the elements
- Wrap Around Seating: Unique wrap-around design with 5 sides offers flexible placement options, easily allowing transport from patio and garden to backyard trees
- Thoughtful Design: With snug-fitting parts and overall dimensions of 52 x 52 x 18 inches, this bench ensures a sturdy, stable seat that's easy to assemble
- Handmade with Care: For over 25 years, All Things Cedar has turned sustainably-sourced wood from the Pacific Northwest into high-quality patio and garden furniture. All of our products are hand made with care, precision and pride—built to be used and loved for years to come.
The plan was featured in WOOD Issue 190 (May 2009). The project page was updated January 16, 2024. The WOOD Store listing identifies it as product GR-00612. Its search-result price was $14.95; price and availability can change, so check the live listing.
What wood and supplies do I need?
The project is described as a cedar bench, but the available project summary does not provide lumber dimensions, board counts, a complete cut list, fasteners, or a finish schedule. Get exact stock sizes and quantities from the full plan before purchasing materials. Cedar is the stated project material; do not treat an estimated shopping list as a substitute for the plan.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Made in the U.S.A; Optional Stain/Sealer in Cedar or White - Addtitional 28% Fee; Rounded & Sanded Edges; Hardware Zinc Plated Steel; Parent Name 3' Cedar Tab Back Bench
- Overall 24"D x 34"H
- Seat & Back 13.75"D x 17.5"H
- Weight 30 lbs, 35 lbs, 45 lbs or 65 lbs
- Capacity 675 lbs
Rank #4
- [TREE BENCH]: SAFAVIEH Abia Tree Bench is a garden bench that suits the garden, lawn, backyard, shade tree or patio, wrapping the trunk so the shade under a mature tree becomes a seat.
- [BUILT FOR THE OUTDOORS]: Built from iron in an antique green powder-coated finish.
- [DIMENSIONS]: 23.5"W x 50"D x 31"H; weighs 13 lbs.
- [VERSATILE STYLING]: The styling reads cottage and traditional, and it suits a yard, orchard or front lawn. Use it as part of a full arrangement or as the one piece a corner needed.
- [EASY CARE & STORAGE]: Wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry. Store it under cover or indoors over winter.
Rank #2
- BEAUTIFUL APPEARANCE: Our natural cedar wood benches are skillfully hand carved from reclaimed wood. These stands have a unique rustic and minimalist appearance that is perfect for a variety of home decor themes such as mid-century modern, urban modern, contemporary, Scandinavian, bohemian, farmhouse, log, primitive, or rustic
- USEFUL AND VERSATILE: Whether you're using it to hold snacks and drinks, lamps or vases, this side table is the perfect choice. It is can be used as a couch table, living room table, end table, nightstand, bench, dining room chairs, and makes a beautiful stand for displaying your plants or any other decorations!
- UNIQUE: Each wood slab is hand-picked and sanded down by skilled partisans to preserve its natural imperfections and live edges. Because of this, no two benches are the same and will differ in wood grain patterns, shape, and color
- NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: This cedar wood table comes fully assembled and ready to be used! Cleaning is as simple as dusting the surface occasionally, however, due to its softness, cedar wood dents and scratches easily. We recommend applying sealer regularly to retain its color and stability.
- DIMENSIONS (average): L20" x W11" x H17" please allow a slight difference in size due to the unique handmade nature of this product
How do I build a bench around a tree?
- Measure the trunk. Check its diameter at ground level and compare it with the plan’s 20-inch design fit.
- Confirm the dimensions. If the trunk is larger, consult the plan’s instructions for the parts it says to lengthen. Do not infer replacement measurements from the summary.
- Get the complete specifications. Refer to the plan for lumber sizes and quantities, cutting details, fasteners, and any other construction requirements not stated in the project summary.
- Build in sections. Assemble the sections in the shop, using the plan’s guides and spacers to assist with angled cuts, then install the sections outdoors as directed.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
