If you're looking to infuse a touch of rustic elegance and craftsmanship into your home decor, then embarking on a DIY project to create a woven bench is the perfect choice. This hands-on endeavor combines both artistry and functionality, allowing you to breathe new life into a simple wooden coffee table.
With the right tools and a dash of creativity, you can transform this unassuming piece of furniture into a stunning woven bench that will become a focal point in your space. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of crafting, this guide will walk you through each step, from disassembling the coffee table to weaving the intricate pattern of ropes. Get ready to unleash your inner artisan and craft a woven bench that's not just a piece of furniture but a work of art to be proudly displayed in your home. Let's dive into this rewarding DIY adventure and create something truly extraordinary!
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Here's the "Before" pic:
![](https://sftimes.s3.amazonaws.com/7/a/6/a/7a6ae34d4312b7f8df6811748ed32811.jpg)
Materials
The materials you'll need for this project depend on what kind of furniture you're transforming, but you'll need a table with a removable top. A table with an insert for a removable glass top would work perfectly.
The materials you'll need for this project depend on what kind of furniture you're transforming, but you'll need a table with a removable top. A table with an insert for a removable glass top would work perfectly.
Wooden coffee table with removable top (around 4'x2')
Scissors
Screwdriver
1/2-inch staples
1/2-inch nylon rope (~ 200 feet) - You can use different colors as you see fit
Pneumatic staple gun
Torch or fire source (for melting rope ends)
Paint (optional)
Scissors
Screwdriver
1/2-inch staples
1/2-inch nylon rope (~ 200 feet) - You can use different colors as you see fit
Pneumatic staple gun
Torch or fire source (for melting rope ends)
Paint (optional)
Instructions
1. Start with the wooden coffee table, remove the top.
2. Unscrew the top by locating and removing screws underneath.
3. Optionally, scuff up the table's finish, apply primer, and paint.
4. Measure and cut rope lengths (length depends on bench size used), melt the ends.
Why? Begin by burning the edges of the nylon so they don't unravel. You'll then secure the cords to the table and meshes them together, creating a tight "net" that is strong enough to be used as a bench.
5. Staple ropes to the apron, three times each.
6. Pull ropes tightly around, trim excess, and staple on the opposite side.
7. Weave longer ropes over and under, securing with staples.
8. Alternate weaving pattern for the second set of ropes.
9. Flip the bench, staple ropes along the underside for security.
10. Display your bench on the porch, in the garden, or as an entryway addition.
Pro Tip: This technique is effective and you can vary up the weave pattern on different projects.
Here are a few "After" pictures:
We did this project a couple of times on a few different benches!
![](https://sftimes.s3.amazonaws.com/b/9/3/1/b931c021050913df63ebe89c0ba0b80a.jpg)
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Another version of project:
![](https://sftimes.s3.amazonaws.com/8/9/a/3/89a35bc32949cae73c706d1322aa5738.jpg)