Jackson Reed
A breakfast nook is a great way to add functionality and improve the flow of a compact kitchen. It eliminates the need for space behind chairs, allowing the table to be placed closer to the corner and freeing up floor space. Building a breakfast nook is a DIY project that can be completed in a few weeks, but it requires careful planning and a lot of measurements. The process involves removing any obstacles, such as baseboards and electrical devices, before assembling the table base and frames, and then adding plywood facing and trim for a polished look. The final steps include sanding and staining or painting the nook to enhance its visual appeal and protect the wood surfaces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | 2x4s, 1x4s, 3/4” plywood |
| Tools | Kreg jig, table saw, Milwaukee “drywall” gun, sander, glue, 23-gauge pin nailer, hammer, miter saw, pocket hole system, screws, wood glue, construction screws, nail gun, polyurethane coating |
| Steps | Measure the area, cut the wood to size, assemble the frame, attach plywood to the frame, add trim, sand, stain or paint, add a protective coating |
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What You'll Learn
Measure and cut plywood pieces
To assemble a breakfast nook, you will need plywood to attach to the benches. Begin by cutting two plywood pieces, each measuring 24 inches square, to mirror the dimensions of the tabletop. You will need to cut two additional square pieces measuring 18×18 inches. Affix the longer pieces to the fronts of the bench frames and attach the two side pieces to the left and right of each bench using nails.
Next, cut four 1x4s, each measuring 18 inches long, and wrap two pieces around each corner. Nail them into place to finish the two outside edges of the seats made of plywood. Cut a piece of plywood to match the top dimensions of one of the benches. Now, cut the foam rubber to fit, and then cut the polyester upholstery batting to accommodate the top, allowing an additional 2 inches to extend over the sides.
Before you start, it is recommended that you make the cuts for each section, rather than making all the cuts at the beginning. This is because you may need to make some adjustments as you go, depending on the level of your floors and walls.
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Assemble the frame
To assemble the frame of your breakfast nook, you will need 2x4s, 1x4s, and 3/4” plywood.
First, measure the area where the bench will be installed and decide on a comfortable height. Cut your 2x4s to size, keeping in mind that you will need to make vertical holes for your screws. If you have a baseboard, you can choose to leave it and work around it or remove it. If you leave it, you may need extra boards to fill in any gaps.
Next, assemble the rectangular supports for your frame. You will need (36) 20” pieces and (16) 17.5” pieces. Create two pocket holes in each end of the 17.5” pieces. Lay out two 20” pieces and sandwich a 17.5” piece between them at either end to form a rectangle, then screw the pieces together using pocket hole screws or a combination of wood glue and long construction screws.
Once the frame is built, do a quick assembly to check the seating height and dimensions. The design should allow for 3/4” plywood to cover the back and two sides of each frame. Attach the plywood to the frame with screws and fill in the holes with wood filler. If you prefer, you can choose not to cover the back of the frame to save on weight and cost, especially if it will be placed against a wall.
Finally, add a decorative trim to the borders of the benches. Cut four 1x4s, each 18 inches long, and wrap two pieces around each corner, nailing them into place.
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Secure the bench to the wall
When securing the bench to the wall, it is important to ensure that the bench is sturdy and can withstand daily use. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to secure a breakfast nook bench to the wall:
First, determine the location of the studs in the wall. Studs are the vertical wooden frames that provide structural support, and you will want to secure your bench to these studs for a sturdy installation. Use a stud finder or locate them manually by knocking on the wall and listening for solid sounds, then mark the stud locations with a pencil.
Next, decide on the height of your bench. Measure and mark the desired height on the wall, ensuring it is comfortable for seating. Cut the bench's support pieces to size, typically made from sturdy 2x4 lumber. These support pieces will be attached between the studs and will bear the weight of the bench.
Now, attach the support pieces to the wall. Hold each piece against the wall, aligning it with the stud marks, and drive long screws through the wood and into the studs. Use a level to ensure the supports are straight and even.
After the supports are securely attached, you can fix the bench frame or top to these supports. Again, use screws appropriate for the type of wood and the weight they need to bear. Make sure the bench is level and securely fastened to the supports.
Finally, for added security and a polished look, consider adding trim or molding along the edges of the bench. This will conceal any gaps and give your breakfast nook a finished appearance.
Securing the bench to the wall is a crucial step in building a safe and stable breakfast nook. Always ensure your measurements are accurate, and use the appropriate screws and fasteners for a sturdy installation.
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Add a finished look with trim
To add a finished look to your breakfast nook with trim, follow these steps:
Firstly, decide on the type of trim you want to use. You can use an old piece of trim and outline it on the side pieces, cutting it out to fit without destroying the corner. Alternatively, you can use 1 x 4 #1 pine to add a decorative trim around the borders of the benches.
When adding the trim, use a 23-gauge pin nailer to nail from the front, and screws to screw the trim in from the back for a tighter finish. On the corners, you can miter the material the long way and build tight corner blocks for consistent dimensions.
If you are planning to paint your breakfast nook, you can be a little loose with the corners and fill them up later. However, if you are using a stain, ensure that your seams and gaps are tight as wood filler may not work well with the stain.
Finally, to hide the ends of the trim, cut them at a 45-degree angle.
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Stain, paint, and seal the wood
When it comes to staining, painting, and sealing the wood, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, if you plan to paint your breakfast nook, you can be more flexible with the corners, as any imperfections can be filled in later. However, if you plan to stain the wood, it is essential to ensure that all seams and gaps are tight, as wood filler may not provide a satisfactory finish.
For staining, it is recommended to sand the wood to a fine grit, such as 220 grit, to create a smooth surface. You can then apply a stain of your choice, such as a walnut stain, to achieve the desired colour and finish.
If you prefer painting, you can simply paint the wood with a colour and finish of your choice. It is important to use a suitable paint designed for wood surfaces.
To seal and protect the wood, a protective coating can be applied. A polyurethane coating, for example, will safeguard the wood from wear and tear and provide a polished and durable finish. This step will enhance the longevity of your breakfast nook while also adding an elegant touch.
Additionally, if your breakfast nook includes drawers, it is essential to ensure they are properly installed and can slide freely. This may involve making adjustments and re-drilling holes if necessary.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need plywood, 2x4s, 1x4s, screws, a Kreg jig, a table saw, a Milwaukee "drywall" gun, glue, a 23-gauge pin nailer, and sandpaper.
First, cut the 2x4s to size and use a Kreg jig to make vertical holes for your screws. Then, build the frame and attach the plywood with screws. Next, attach the frame to the wall using screw hooks. Finally, sand the plywood and add any desired finish, such as a walnut stain.
To make a breakfast nook bench, cut two plywood pieces that mirror the dimensions of the tabletop. Apply glue and secure one side with screws. Locate the midpoint on the tabletop and the top of the bench, and fashion two brackets from two-by-fours. Attach the brackets to the underside of the tabletop and the upper surface of the bench. Finally, slide the column over the brackets and secure it with screws or nails.
It is recommended to make cuts for each section rather than for the whole project at once, as your walls and floors may not be level. Additionally, remove any baseboards or millwork in the area before starting assembly. If you plan to work in your breakfast nook, consider adding an outlet to the side.
