DIY Frame Step-By-Step

Build a window seat, ready to decorate to match you scheme, with our guide

➤Measuring tape
➤Pencil & spirit level
➤Saw & square edge tool
➤Timber for the frame (around 2in x 4in)
➤Sheet of 18mm MDF
➤Drill & wood drill bit
➤Wall Plugs
➤Tongue-and-groove cladding

1. Start by making the frame that will form the front of the seat. Measure across the bay, slightly set back from the front edge to allow for the thickness of the tongue and groove. Cut two pieces of timber this length, with their ends shaped to sit flush against the side walls.

2. Measure the hight you want the seat to be (remember to allow for the depth of the foam cushion). Cut shorter lengths of timber to fit between the long lengths at right angles to create a ladder frame to the height you need. Space these short lengths evenly and fix in place with long screws.

3. Draw a line with a pencil and spirit level round the three bay walls at the height of the front frame. Cut pieces of timber with shaped ends as appropriate to fit neatly round the walls. Use screws and wall plugs to attach the timber to the wall with the top edge at the pencil line.

4. Make a U shape from timber where the back piece is flush with the one screwed to the walls, and two cross pieces joint it to the front frame. Add shorter ‘legs’ at the back corners for support. Screw the U-shapped piece to the back wall timber, then to the front ladder.

5. Cover the seat front with tongue and groove. The top edge should be slush with the frame. Add decorative moulding if desired.

6. Make a template for the top surface (overlap the front edge slightly for a  neat finish) then transfer to 18mm-thick MDF and cut out. Screw the board to the timber frame.