DIY Network

Dining Booth: Finishing Benches From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-306

The benches are complete -- all that's needed is a little trim to give them a more finished look. Host Fuad Reveiz follows the trim work with polyurethane and paint.

On a project difficulty scale of 1-5 (5 being most difficult), this project rates a 2.
Time of completion: 16 hours over 2 days.

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After the Remodel: the completed dining booth adds a fresh look and functionality to an unused corner.

Materials:

3/4" birch plywood
2 x 4s
Various trim pieces
Laminate edging
Brayer
Iron
Sandpaper
Nails and screws
Glue
Cardboard
Wood putty
Natural stain
Polyurethane
Paint
Primer
Brushes and rags
Circular saw
Chop saw
Table saw
Jig saw
Reciprocating saw
Drill and bits
Trim nailer
Framing nailer
Table saw
Speed square
Caulk gun and caulk
Clamps
Utility knife
Hammer
Level
Tape measure

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

1. Bring second bench in and measure from wall. Next, make sure the distance between the benches is even the entire length. Secure bench to floor using wood screws (figure A). Use two screws (front and rear) in each 2 x 4 brace.

2. Set back into position. Add shims at bottom to hold back tightly against top overhang, then attach back of bench with trim screws (figure B). After all screws are in and secure, remove shims.

3. Measure, cut and add decorative trim to back, securing with trim nailer. For the sides, a shadowbox design is created with trim to complement the side angles and is nailed into place with a trim nailer (figure C).

4. Finally, add shoe molding at bottom of bench sides.

5. Measure seating areas for both benches. Add 1" for overhang. Test fit, then add a coat of natural stain (figure D). Add a coat of polyurethane. Tip: test color on scrap wood before coating surface wood.

6. Fill screw holes with wood putty. Wait a few minutes, then lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove any dust, then coat bench surfaces with a quality primer.

7. Caulk all seams. Then apply paint in color of choice (in this example, the kitchen trim is white, so the benches are painted to match).