How to Build a Storage Bench from Scratch

Why Build a Storage Bench?

A storage bench is one of the most functional pieces of furniture you can add to any room. It provides seating, hidden storage, and a finished look — all in one piece. At the foot of a bed, in an entryway, or in a mudroom, a well-built storage bench earns its space every single day. Building one from scratch costs $60–$120 in materials versus $200–$500+ for comparable retail options, and you get exactly the size and style you need.

Tools & Materials You'll Need

Tools

• Drill/Driver: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
• Circular Saw: DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Circular Saw
• Orbital Sander: DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander
• Pocket Hole Jig: General Tools Pocket Hole Jig Kit
• Brad Nailer: Metabo HPT Brad Nailer
• Staple Gun: YEAHOME T50 Heavy Duty Staple Gun Kit — for upholstered lid option
• Clamps: WORKPRO Bar Clamps Set
• Tape measure, speed square, level, pencil

Materials

• 3/4" plywood — for the box sides, bottom, and lid
• 1x4 or 1x6 pine — for face frame (optional, for a furniture-quality look)
• Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue
• Wood Screws Assortment Kit — 1-5/8" and 2" sizes
• Brad Nails
• Piano hinge or two butt hinges — for the lid
• Lid support hardware (soft-close lid supports recommended)
• Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grit)
• Wood stain and polyurethane, or paint
• Furniture feet or casters
• Optional upholstered lid: GoTo Foam 2" Upholstery Cushion + fabric + staple gun

Standard Storage Bench Dimensions

• Length: 36–48" (to fit at the foot of a queen or king bed)
• Depth: 16–20"
• Height: 17–19" (standard bench seat height)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cut All Plywood Pieces

Cut the following from 3/4" plywood:

• 2 side panels: bench height x bench depth
• 1 front panel: bench length x bench height
• 1 back panel: bench length x bench height
• 1 bottom panel: bench length x (bench depth minus 1.5" for front/back panel thickness)
• 1 lid: bench length x bench depth

Step 2: Drill Pocket Holes and Assemble the Box

Drill pocket holes along the edges of the bottom panel and side panels. Assemble the box: glue and screw the front and back panels to the side panels first, then attach the bottom panel from inside using pocket hole screws. Check for square by measuring diagonally. Let dry.

Step 3: Add a Face Frame (Optional)

For a furniture-quality look, add a face frame from 1x4 pine around the front and sides of the box. Glue and nail the face frame pieces flush with the box edges using your brad nailer. This hides the plywood edges and gives the bench a solid wood appearance.

Step 4: Build and Attach the Lid

The lid is a piece of 3/4" plywood cut to the bench dimensions. Attach it to the back of the bench box using a piano hinge (runs the full length) or two butt hinges. Install soft-close lid support hardware on the inside — this prevents the lid from slamming and keeps it open while you access storage.

Step 5: Upholster the Lid (Optional)

For a padded seat, cut upholstery foam to the lid dimensions. Spray-adhere foam to the lid top. Wrap with a layer of batting, then your chosen fabric. Pull taut and staple to the underside of the lid every 2–3". Fold corners neatly and staple flat.

Step 6: Sand and Finish the Box

Sand all exterior surfaces from 80 to 220-grit. Apply stain and 2–3 coats of polyurethane for a natural wood look, or paint for a clean modern finish. If the lid is upholstered, finish the box before attaching the lid.

Step 7: Add Feet or Casters

Attach furniture feet to the bottom corners to raise the bench slightly and protect floors. For a mobile bench, use locking caster wheels instead.

Storage Ideas

• Extra blankets and pillows (bedroom bench)
• Shoes and boots (entryway bench)
• Sports equipment and bags (mudroom bench)
• Toys and games (living room bench)
• Seasonal items and linens

Pro Tips

• Use soft-close lid supports — they make the bench feel premium and prevent lid damage.
• Line the interior with cedar planks or cedar paper to protect stored linens from moths.
• Add a handle to the front of the lid for easy opening.
• Use 3/4" plywood throughout — thinner plywood will flex and feel cheap under sitting weight.
• Pre-finish the interior of the box before assembly for easier painting.

Estimated Cost & Time

Materials: $60–$120 (more with upholstered lid). Time: 6–8 hours. A weekend project with daily-use payoff.

Final Thoughts

A storage bench is one of the most practical DIY furniture projects you can build. It solves a storage problem, provides seating, and looks great doing both. Build it to your exact dimensions and finish it to match your existing furniture — the result will look like a custom piece that cost three times as much.