How to Build a Stump Stool

Using scrap wood and firewood, the Whites built children’s stools for the upstairs loft. These adorable stump stools are sturdy and easy to make, but will be treasured and used for many years.

Cut firewood rounds about 2” thick from a 10”-14” diameter tree, using a chain saw.

Trace the firewood piece out on to a scrap piece of 1/4" thick plywood.

Use a jigsaw to cut the traced shape out, cutting about 1/2” inside the traced line so the plywood piece is not visible from the sides when attached.

Apply glue generously to the firewood piece underside.

Use a staple gun, nail gun or screws to attach the plywood piece to the underside of the stump. Keep fasteners around outside of plywood piece, avoiding center area where legs will be attached.

Use a compound miter saw, set to 20 degrees off square, to cut the legs. You will need three legs per stool, each leg cut 12” long, long point to short point measurement, ends cut parallel at 20 degrees off square.

Drill two pocket holes on one end of each of the legs, with the pocket hole jig set for 1-1/2” thick stock. The pocket holes should be drilled on the long end of the angle cuts.

Insert screws in the pocket holes and place the legs on the stool underside, equally spaced in between.

Attach legs with 2-1/2” pocket hole screws and wood glue.

Test the stools to make sure they will support adequate weight and are stable and sturdy.

Turn the stool upside down and paint the legs.

The best part of a handmade project is the unique customizations.  Use a paint markers to personalize the stool top.

The stool top should be coated with a clear poly. Several coats are recommended to fully seal the bark and end grain.