I am SO excited how this project turned out. I had been looking for a bench with storage for my front door. Same old story…everything was either blah or way too expensive. I saw a headboard repurposed into a bench on Pinterest, so I summoned up the determination/motivation to make one myself. I searched for a long time on Craigslist until I found just the right headboard/footboard combo.
It was so filthy when I got it, I spent a long time cleaning it with a damp sponge and used a vinegar/water mix. The fancy wooden appliques were cracked, peeling up, and some were broken off completely. I glued them down and clamped what I could. I didn’t want to take it to a professional woodworker and spend a lot of money replacing the missing pieces, so I bought some Sculpey Clay, molded my own pieces, and baked them. I glued those pieces on. Now…how will that hold up over time? I have no idea. I’m crossing my fingers and hoping for the best! Next I used a LOT of outdoor caulk to fill in all the little cracks and gaps. The bench is covered by a roof overhang, so it will get some protection from the elements. My hope is with all the caulk used and several layers of outdoor paint it will last a good long while. I’ll try to remember to update next summer!
I cut the footboard in half and used each side for an armrest. I wanted a bench with storage, so I built a frame out of 2×4’s, covered it with 3/4″ plywood and used a piano hinge for the lid. Also, since the headboard and footboard are old antique wood, I made sure all the weight is on the new seat/storage area. I think I caulked, painted and retouched like 10 times after it was all said and done. Finally, I used a black outdoor stain and brushed it into all the details and wiped it with baby wipes to give it an antique look.
RUGGY DIY 
Your posts are so amazing!
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Was the black outdoor stain the only thing you used to achieve the overall color of this bench? It’s beautiful!
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Thank you! I used a solid gray outdoor paint as the main color, and then antiqued it with black stain.
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Just beautiful! Do you have the instructions for making the box part?
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Wow…..it is stunning! I would love to find something similar that I could use for a front porch swing.
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how deep did you make the bench? I’m trying to find your measurements. This is beautiful!
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Love this color grey.. all the greys i pick out has a blue undertone,which i hate..do u know the name of this grey?
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I just purchased a headboard/footboard to make my own bench. I looked through Pinterest for hours checking others ideas and pointers before starting mine. Your bench is one of my favorites so far. It is beautiful. You did a wonderful job.
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Wow this is amazing!! I love all the shading you did on the bench. Can you explained how you were able to get this look. Please and Thankuou!! When ever I try to do this it ends up looking nothing like your beautiful piece. So if you have any tips or suggestions I would love to here them. Thanks so much!
Ashlee
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I have the exact same headboard and footboard! I have been looking for a idea on how to make a bench out of it….. I think yours is perfect! You did I great job on it. How did it hold up to the weather with the outdoor paint?
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It has spent 2 winters outside under a covered porch and it is holding up perfect! No change 🙂
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