How to build a modern Adirondack chair // Outdoor Woodworking Plans

Learn how to build a modern Adirondack or outdoor chair for your patio and add modern outdoor seating to your backyard! Thanks to Bernzomatic for sponsoring this video, check out the TS8000 torch bit.ly/2ycz1ZE & MAP gas bit.ly/2Y9MYHm I used on this project! #sponsored
I have plans available for this project! (Plans coming soon, subscribe to be notified when they're live) : bit.ly/craftednewsletter
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📦 Materials Used On The Adirondack Chair (affiliate):
🔹 Rockler Zip Driver Screws : www.rockler.com/robertson-squ...
Thermally Modified Ash : bit.ly/ashevillehardware
CA Glue and Activator : amzn.to/30xmTP3
Brad Nails : amzn.to/30D77lV
Wood Glue : amzn.to/32LKFc5
1 ¼” Pocket Hole Screws : amzn.to/2LGo6Qu
10’ of ¾” Copper Pipe : amzn.to/30ZdL6a
4 Copper Elbows : amzn.to/2LI5Y8U
2 Copper End Caps : amzn.to/2LFEL72
🛠 Tools Used On The Outfeed Table (affiliate):
🔥 TS8000 bit.ly/2ycz1ZE
🔥 MAP gas bit.ly/2Y9MYHm
🔸 Powermatic 209HH Planer : bit.ly/209HH
🔸 Powermatic PJ-882HH Jointer : bit.ly/PJ882HH
🔸 Powermatic PM1500 Bandsaw : bit.ly/PM1500
🔹 Rockler Countersink Bit Set : amzn.to/2XGRfNd
🔹 Rockler Plug Cutter : amzn.to/2SGli6B
🔺 Infinity Tools Super General Saw Blade : bit.ly/supergeneralblade
Soldering Kit : amzn.to/2JRqsdh
Table Saw : amzn.to/2WrrNMm
Push Stick : amzn.to/2XIvgFq
Miter Saw : amzn.to/2TeGdgO
Speed Square : amzn.to/2XMF5CE
Magnetic Screw Holder (for my impact driver) : amzn.to/2xGYPwD
Cordless Drill : amzn.to/2wOFM2S
Pocket Hole Jig : amzn.to/2UWT0oi
Sander : amzn.to/2oHOmg7
Brad Nailer : amzn.to/30s8Fij
Japanese Pull Saw : amzn.to/2S9Zdgu
Block Plane : amzn.to/2V2D7h1
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Adirondack Chair Build Process:
I broke the Ash boards down into rough lengths at the miter saw and bandsaw. Next, I started working on the metal framework. I cut the 3/4” copper tubing pieces to length.
Next, I applied flux to the end of the tubing. To solder copper, you want to heat up the joint until the flux melts and then basically wipe the solder across the tubing until it melts and flows into the joint.
After finishing soldering, I could get back to working on the wooden portion of the chair. I started by ripping the arms and legs to final width at the table saw. I then cut the boards to length using my crosscut table.
Next, I could get to work on the joinery for the chair. I went with pocket holes.
The next pieces to work on were the back legs, which have a parallel angle of 20 degrees cut on each end, and I made these cuts over at the miter saw.
Next, I marked the location of the back leg on the front and back sides of the front leg.
After pre-drilling the holes through the front leg, I clamped the back leg in place using my t-track table and drove the screws.
I could mark out where I needed to cut a flat spot on the back legs. I could then cut to my line using the jigsaw, and I cleaned up the cut with my low angle block plane. With that, the main structure of the chair was assembled, so I could attach the copper base.
Next, I could get to work on the back panel. This is a simple assembly of four boards connected with two perpendicular cross supports at the top and bottom of the panels.
Next, I needed to get the back panel attached to the back legs. I lifted the panel into place and added the screws.
With the back panel installed, I could work on attaching the last parts of the chair, the seat. I started by adding the front seat slat. After clamping the board in place, I drove in the pocket screws.
Next, I could get the copper base removed for finishing. I used a file to remove any excess solder around the joints. I used a self-etching primer and then sprayed on a few coats of flat black paint.
I wanted to plug all of the screw holes using a plug cutter. After cutting the plugs, I popped them out with a flathead screwdriver and added the plugs to the holes with wood glue. I trimmed them flush with my Japanese pull saw.
With that, all that was left was sanding. I sanded the chair up to 180 grit, making sure to break all of the edges. I also hand sanded between all of the slats.
And with that, all that was left to do was reattach the metal base.

[@NitroMaxOriginal]

I really appreciate it when mistakes/errors/bad materials/poor choices/etc etc are included. It helps us make better decisions with our own projects. THANK YOU

[@craftedworkshop]

For sure, I always try to include my mistakes where I can!

[@jeanluisindriagolugo232]

This was great, thanks, been searching for "free woodworking plans projects patterns" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - Yanathew Wood Waggler - (should be on google have a look )? It is a good exclusive guide for building amazing sheds and your own wood work projects minus the hard work. Ive heard some decent things about it and my colleague got cool success with it.

[@tifanyjones8154]

Not certain about the points made but ,if anyone else wants to uncover football result predictions try Jadonite Top Sports Buddy (just google it ) ? Ive heard some super things about it and my buddy got cool success with it.

[@robertgunshows2341]

@@craftedworkshop s

[@jennieanddavis]

I really like the frame underneath that supports/arranges the wood. That's a great idea to help hold minimalist designs together. I'll have to keep that in mind for future designs that need a little more backbone. Great video, as always!

[@ozoolydie2071]

Very nice but the copper would look better without the matte black, I think the raw copper looked good

[@jrmyphts]

I agree, after a few seasons the patina of the copper would look so good with the graying of the wood.

[@poisonformymind]

I've been needing some nice chairs for my porch so I might have to give this one a shot. Good build!

[@David-xu3yk]

This turned out really nice! I appreciate you showing the issues you came across and how you got around them. I didnt know about solder being pulled by the heat. You learn something new every day!

[@ggreen3651]

Cool that you also showed the "mistake" with the aluminium.

[@JesseHires]

Izzy Swan has a great video on making your own dowels. Might help you get a better color match on projects like this when plugging the pocket holes.

[@craftedworkshop]

I'll check it out!

[@mikesparks3398]

i like the fact that you tell when you jack something up..or change something around, or something just didn't work out right. !!!

[@siddhrajdhadhal8372]

Probably the best looking wood on all these KZbin videos.

[@filmthatbuild]

Man!!! encountering a problem on every woodworking project made me like to give up, but you nailed it! I had documented all my mistakes into a video build film, I hope I can achieve same level of expertise like yours someday hehe

[@NirvanaWoodWorksbyJanie]

that thermally modified ash looks gorgeous! Definitely going to have to check it out now. We have a few outdoor furniture and projects we have been meaning to tackle. Thanks for sharing!

[@colinyoung3685]

This reminded me of the Muskoka chairs I saw in Canada, had to do a bit of digging apparently this style predates the Muskoka (1905, and 1940's respectively) and directly provided the inspiration.

[@Frannocom]

HI copper soldering 101, clean the parts add flux, THEN heat from one side, when the flame turns GREEN on the other side add the filler materiale.. That's it :)

[@sagguharjit88]

Dear Sir It's simply gorgeous chair. Plugs were seamlessly fitted.

[@jimnachman3640]

Nice project!! Love the chairs. You can also twist the end of the tube inside a piece of sandpaper to rough up the end. You get a more uniform finish on the end of the pipe.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks Jim, and good tip!

[@PneumaticAddict]

GORGEOUS chair man! 👏 And now I'm off to find thermally treated wood...

[@keatonvandergreft4896]

You deserve more subscribers then you have.

[@bmwflyfisher]

Big tip for the Japanese saw on the plugs. Get a 90# compression (high gloss) business card (gun show, craft show, ect.). Lay this down and let your saw ride on this versus the surface wood. You will have to use a Block plane before sanding, but it only takes 2-3 swipes. You don't get the saw blade tear out on the surface wood. In other words, cut and work the plug not the facial wood.

[@bg73]

I like the way this design has lots of straight and angular edges, no curves

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks, me too!

[@ssgtdolan]

Using the torch to sear after sous vide, I guess I'm not the only one!!! Glad to know!!!

[@BuildItWithJose]

Straight forward and descriptive! Excellent job on putting this together.

[@alibilginarslan8161]

Would love a version of this with wood only and without the metalwork

[@samuelbelschner5124]

Hey Jonny !!! This Chair is so nice.... i Show it a Friend here in Germany. And now i Must build it for him 😜🤟🏻

[@jimmylum8708]

Very good

[@robw7856]

Woah exactly what I was planning on building next

[@jeffsanphy1226]

A couple tips. Just torch the stickers and they wipe right off with rag. Once you finish the solder joint hit it with the flux brush while its still hot. It will be bright and shiny.

[@jrburns100]

Good old bbq smelling Viking ash! Love working with that stuff

[@danglecier9462]

Great information. To simple as in flat for my liking.

[@ArturoMendezC]

Nice design, look so comfortable!

[@IEnjoyCreatingVideos]

Nice adirondack chair Johnny! Thank you for sharing it with us. 👍👌😎JP

[@grantking6100]

Beautiful I’m definitely going to try this

[@tubelife70]

I noticed that you were using your DeWalt "impact driver" to install the pocket screws. I'd been doing the same for several years (also with mixed results depending on the material) I'd be willing to bet you use the impact driver because your Kreg step drill bit stays in you regular drill driver through the process or is loaded with other drill bits :) Well, I finally found a step drill bit that has a quick change hex shank and now I use the impact driver for drilling the holes and my regular DeWalt drill driver with a stop clutch setting of 6 to drive in the screws. I've never had a problem with over driving pocket screws ever since. P.S. I really like the design and the look of this chair. Its a winner in my opinion! Thanks for sharing :)

[@FredMcIntyre]

Awesome work Johnny! 😃👍🏻👊🏻

[@nualln]

I'm definitely going to check out thermally modified ash. I thought it was walnut at first!

[@kedvinm7550]

THIS MAN MAKES EVERYTHING SO COMPLICATED, A REGULAR PEOPLE WITH OUT ANY KNOWLEDGE OF MAKING A SEAT CAN'T MAKE THIS CHAIR, HE'S NO TEACHING ANYTHING HE'S ONLY BRAGGING ABOUT IT. NOBODY HAVE THIS KIND OF TOOLS EXCEPT IF YOU'RE A PRO LIKE HE IS.

[@jcruz1033]

“This wood is great and perfect for outdoor because it’s thermally treated.” “This wood sucks cause it’s brittle due to being thermally treated and splits all the time.” 🤣🤣 Hey...it’s a gorgeous 🪑. I would still buy it.

[@hryshchenko_fam]

Wow it’s amazing Adirondack chair. Love it

[@GlassImpressions]

I love the design, could use 5/4 stock and avoid the supporting structure?

[@enjoywood707]

Perfect job👍

[@nopasanada2613]

gorgeous

[@doyonfamily366]

Nice Finnegan Speed shirt!

[@zachjohnson41]

I like the look of this one better than your last. Like seeing your progression, man.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks man, me too! Gotta keep improving!

[@JustPerfectM]

The design is really modern and beautiful!❤️ But what if I want to make it without metal, using only wood... Is that possible? How would you strengthen the seat? Thank you 😊

[@tecairsolutions3847]

I'm surprised no one replied to this question

[@douglasmorrison6394]

a tip to avoid splitting for pocket holes would be to either wiping some wax or some soap on the screw or to even take the point off the screw. ive never had any problems after I found these solutions for me to prevent it

[@philz9835]

Johnny, have you ever tried using wax when driving screws into hard wood? I usually keep a cheap candle around to use on screws for when I'm doing oak or other similar hard wood work. Sometimes, rarely, I'll do it on my mesquite as well (I usually dont like screws in my mesquite projects). Forgot to say that is a really designed chair. It's an awesome look.

[@LonghornWorkshop]

Turned out great.

[@chadgraham8145]

Your projects are always so Cleannnnnnn

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@timdyck8492]

I seen this on fb woodworking enthusiasts ,it said modern day Adirondack ,wow with the shop this guy has u think u’d put a little curve and style to it ,looks like something I’d build when I was 6

[@vikhes121]

Really cool. I have learned a lot from watching your videos. Can you build these chairs with simple tools? I am just starting my woodworking journey and do not have a lot of tools.

[@coog7896]

I was thinking the same thing. I too am just starting out, bought my first Miter saw and I have a couple of other tools (circular saw, jigsaw, impact drill, etc) that I will be trying out before I start buying too much, lol. I'm a big guy (6'3" and 350+ lbs) so I was thinking of making something comfortable like this but I will be making it more "Heavy Duty." Good Luck with your journey!

[@jmakes3745]

I hate to make comments like this especially when I know how competent and talented a designer and maker you are but I couldn't help but feel slightly confused by this project, and would love to hear more a bit more your thought process! In my opinion, the pocket holes give the impression of wanting to create something that was simple and accessible however to me aluminium/brass brazing is quite a complicated and technical process. I'd completely understand why you'd compromise on this if it was the only way to get the desired strength or look. However, the most beautiful aspect of copper (the colour and patina) is hidden behind the wood and a layer of paint, and I couldn't work out what its achieving structurally (e.g. allowing the seat to be cantilevered etc) as there are a lot of similar designs out there made entirely out of wood. I hope you don't take this the wrong way I just am generally curious if there is something I'm completely overlooking not understanding :)

[@crisvega7588]

He mentioned that he doesn't upkeep outdoor finish, so likely painted avoid rusty copper down the line? Maybe?

[@emostorm7]

@@crisvega7588 copper doesn't rust I don't think

[@crisvega7588]

@@emostorm7 that's right, brain fart, I should have said tarnishes.

[@thecardinalcrew8959]

I’m with you. I don’t understand the purpose of the added cost and trouble of working with the copper when wood could have been used and accomplished the same thing, only stronger.

[@WelcomeToJ]

Dude, this was a pleasure to watch. Great project, great to see the work flow in your new space, and beautiful wood (I really really like its appearance)!

[@collinsalex2342]

The subjects covered in this woodworking website *TopFineWoodworking. Com* varies from wood types to tool types and uses. A few other subjects range from the various kinds of wood along with their distinct levels of difficulty when it comes to managing them. If you are still a beginner in wood working, then you will find this book very beneficial.

[@Heatsauce70506]

cool, great for summer drinks. haha

[@RMCdesignz]

great project never came to mind to use Cooper.

[@mandem9319]

JUST what I needed for coming weekend! Was looking for a nice project :-)

[@craftedworkshop]

Nice! Have fun

[@collinsalex2342]

This woodworking book is really detailed, *TopFineWoodworking. Com* ! With the aid of this plan, I was able to use words, drawings, real images and different diagrams. It is really an informative product. I am presently making furniture together with my brother and thanks to this product, I feel like helping him is possible.?

[@lisakelley9451]

That wood is beautiful! It Nice innovations on a classic design!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thank you very much!

[@jrmyphts]

I have never used this product before, you kept mentioning how brittle it was. My outdoor furniture gets a lot of use, I would be afraid this would not last too many years.

[@tmelvin9728]

I like the metal frame idea. Nice fsm shirt btw

[@smithblyth3548]

Really nice!

[@DanHughesNC]

That looks really nice.

[@OoLIK3AB0SSoO]

Scotch bright works great to clean up your copper pipe ends too!

[@TJSWOODWORKINGSHOP]

Awesome project my brother I love it,Very nice job and video see you later take care :)

[@AlikKra]

Спасибо, отличное видео, великолепная работа.

[@Masaki_1337]

Кажется он немного с медью и припоем накосячил :)

[@AlikKra]

@@Masaki_1337 он медь везде сует)

[@johnwhitley2898]

Great chair with that interesting choice of wood!! I wonder how it would take linseed oil..... Thanks again!!

[@SmartLifeEnthusiast]

How did you decide on the inclination and size of this chair? I guess sitting height, backside height and with have certain standard measurements? But what about the inclination?

[@doubledarefan]

John Malecki made the same clamp mistake. Next time, use the Fireball square, but with spacers between it and the workpieces. I think the copper would look cool with a few coats of clear lacquer or clear enamel.

[@teckbugz1278]

Nice work!

[@diycentral]

Super clean! Good info about the thermally modified woods 👊 I'm not sure if I missed the reasoning behind the metal frame. Is it for strength? That design (no rear vertical support) is the way I prefer to make traditional adirondack chairs and has always been more than strong enough.

[@Lejackal]

Glad to know I’m not the only one who uses their torch for both making and cooking LOL

[@craftedworkshop]

It’s great for searing steak!

[@jhh70]

Awesome look to old favorite

[@exxekhan]

Very nice design. What is the dimension of the lumber 1x6? The arms and legs are just the right size and proportion that I'm looking for.

[@TheDboardman]

Next time you use pocket holes on hardwoods use some paste wax on the screws. I usually put a liberal amount on the threads and then drive it home. It gives the screw enough lube to go in without splits.

[@avgFloridian]

Looks like you had as much luck aluminum brazing as I did. I'll definitely be revisiting that process, when it's appropriate, but I switched to fasteners for my project. When you're cleaning the outside surface of the copper pipe, it's easier to use abrasive cloth than the brush. It comes in a roll.

[@coloringoutsidethelines9755]

Nice job pulling it all together - 5/4 boards will be less split-prone when using the super-cooked wood and look more proportional for what you are building (so much so, maybe you wouldn't need the metal supports) - also, ash is more likely to split anyway (i.e. baseball bats). Where's the cup holders bro - drill 3.5" holes, ease the edges w/ a round-over bit and make bent copper U-strips screwed to the under side of the arms to support the bottom of the cups/cell phone - just say'n. Or, just put black plastic cup holder inserts recessed flush into the top surface of the arms. ;^P Keep up the good work!!

[@EduardoTorresDeMadera]

Very good video. Just wondering if using those copper pipes as legs to build a Bench will be enough to hold 1-2 persons.

[@michaelwelch442]

Woodworking skills are on point. Searing a steak with a torch after Sous vide? No no no no no

[@lee85gavaz]

Very goooooood

[@jeffforbes3772]

Very nice build sir, I've never seen that type of wood before, is it expensive?

[@MrLedav1]

Very Nice projet . J aime 👍

[@phuocle864]

Which wood should I choose the best weather resistant to make this chair? I intend to use Teak wood whether it is suitable? Should I choose the best Cedar or Teak?

[@gregaschweiger1041]

Great video

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks Gregor!

[@donnygrahambuilds]

Man! Definitely a cool build, but that Ash looks like a real pain to work with. Good opportunity to test and push your skills though. Nice work m’man!

[@crumbsnatcher74]

would cumaru be a nice alternative wood for this project as well?

[@angeljorel5124]

Got a hammer Half box of nails Glue And a couple 2 by 4s... think am ready for this project 🤣

[@SecretStashBrosBuilds]

Nice man

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@luisgerena6649]

I’m curious as to why you went with pocket holes for the seat slats instead of cleats underneath.

[@duendex5]

Genuily curious about the copper reinforcement, it seems a lot of extra overhead and money compared woth regular Adirondraks . Is this added after testing without the reinforcement and finding the structure weak? Ive always been told this chair design is specifically made to be sound and sturdy with nothing more than wood, hence the diagonals.

[@fidelis231]

nice Finnegan Garage Shirt!

[@pauldejesus9644]

nice chair

[@antonyzambrano6449]

I do not understand so much work with those tubes if they are going to be unseen .. enough with the same structure of wood so simple. . apparently those tubes are made of copper and to avoid so much fatigue for me it's only fine what pure wood..👍 No entiendo tanto trabajo con esos tubos si van a pasar desapercibidos ... lo suficiente con la misma estructura de madera tan simple. . Al parecer, esos tubos están hechos de cobre y para evitar tanta fatiga para mí, está bien lo que es puro madera..👍

[@manilikeever]

Pretty amazing work I want to your student...

[@nicholaskellam7767]

I like the chair... does that copper pipe actually provide any support tho?

[@bradrichey6397]

Another benefit of working with thermally modified wood is the smell. Cutting it makes your shop smell like a campfire.

[@rossburke9991]

Where's the plans? I will definitely spend a couple bucks on it. Probably go redwood or cypress though the ash was cool

[@garethrooza9717]

Great Build! turned out really Nice - is there any reason why you did not use any water resistant wood Glue?

[@BoTTanker]

Where can I get the plans for this chair the one in the store looks different

[@hecbern4274]

Have you try to work with ipe?

[@1ianjoy]

This chair looks awesome, but I've got no experience with metalwork. How would one go about building this without the metal?

[@bg73]

Next item on your shopping list - a tig welder :)

[@craftedworkshop]

Hah, I've got one 😂

[@bg73]

"facepalm"... why didn't you use it? :)

[@pauldejesus9644]

do you have to brace it

[@BarryFromEastenders]

Is thermally modified pretty much very heavy shousugi ban treatment?