Get Comfortable: 8 creative seats made by woodland sawyers

Check out these 8 DIY woodworking projects for the perfect place to sit.

Seating is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor living area. Whether you are hosting guests or just enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, comfortable and stylish areas to sit can make all the difference. With some basic tools and knowledge, there are endless possibilities for creating your own custom furniture to showcase in your house or in your outdoor space. Looking for some inspiration? Well, make yourself comfortable, take a load off, and settle in, because here are 8 sawyers who decided to use their portable sawmills to create some charming seating for their properties.

A Porch Swing; When a Hobby Becomes Profitable

Jordon started his woodworking journey by building small wood projects with store-bought wood, but since he acquired his HM126 portable sawmill, he has been able to expand his skills and imagination. Not only is he creating wood projects to improve his own family's life, but he now sells custom woodworking projects, as well.

 "What started as a hobby has turned into a full time gig. I’ve always wanted to work for myself and the sawmill was the best purchase to get that going."

This beautiful porch swing is a great example of how with a little practice and the right basic tools you can craft something truly impressive.

An Electric Bench; Using Your Creativity

Brad proves that a bench does not have to be basic. He dreamt up this creative bench design and then using diamond willow and spruce that he milled on his HM126 portable sawmill, he made it a reality. Sitting on circular log legs is a beautiful bench-top with what looks like bolts of lightening spreading through it. This was achieved using a wood burning process called "wood fracking" or "fractal burning". Perhaps not for beginners, but a fun detail for practiced adults.

An Outhouse; Treating Yourself to Creature Comforts

When you’re out in nature and “nature calls” it’s nice to have somewhere comfortable to answer. Eric milled some red oak lumber on his HM126 portable sawmill and built himself the ultimate outhouse. No need to paint this project, the elegance of the natural wood is more than enough. The deep red colour of the wood looks beautiful among the plants and trees and with a spacious throne and separate shower, it's as pretty inside as it is on the outside.

A Rocking Chair; Letting the Wood Shape the Project

Ted created a rocking chair that is as much a work of art as it is a functional piece of furniture. He mills a variety of lumber on his HM130MAX portable sawmill. Note that the live edge lumber fits neatly together, Ted's projects often incorporate the unique shapes and textures of the wood. The deep hues of the walnut, the vibrant patterns of the myrtle wood, and the warm earthy tones of juniper come together in perfect harmony. Just like the blends of wood, his blend of skill, passion, and a deep appreciation for the materials have transformed this lumber into something special.

A Pair of Camping Chairs; Using What You Have

A cozy woodworking session with a hot drink in hand is the perfect way to spend a chilly day in New York. Brian dug through his collection of lumber, milled on his HM126 portable sawmill, to craft his next project. With warmer weather on the brain, he landed on a matching pair of sleek, comfortable deck chairs. Having access to his own free supply of lumber made this project both simple and cost-effective.

"Having the HM126 makes hardwood lumber affordable".

"The Punisher" Chair; Making It Uniquely You

When designing a wood project, crafting something as simple as a deck chair can be as unique as the person who creates it. Martin took his Adirondack chair to the next level by customizing it to resemble “The Punisher” logo.  After constructing it with lumber from his HM130MAX portable sawmill, he used fire to char the surface of the wood giving it an edgy almost battle worn finish that ties in perfectly with the "Punisher" theme.

A Backed Bench; Upcycling a Fallen Tree

Chuck came up with the design for this adorable bench and immediately knew he wanted to use some of his air dried cedar lumber for the project. He likes to mill eastern red cedar on his HM126 portable sawmill because it's known for its rich colour, aromatic scent, and resilience. Not only is it inexpensive, but for Chuck there is something special about transforming a fallen tree into a piece of furniture that can be enjoyed by his family for years to come.

"Without [my HM126] none of what I have built would have been possible"

Double Deck Chairs; Harvesting From Home

Jean-Guy created a stunning tandem deck chair with a useful table in the center using lumber from his HM130MAX portable sawmill. He carefully milled the wood from a cedar tree he harvested right from his own land, transforming it into a beautiful double bench. The project is a perfect blend of craftsmanship and personal connection to the land, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood while making his outdoor space feel more inviting.

So next time you are thinking of upgrading the furniture around your home, consider creating it yourself. You can save time and money by using lumber from your own wood stash rather than having to buy if from a store. Completely customize it to your own taste by embracing the natural beauty of the wood, painting it your favorite color, or even burning a design! The pride of ownership is hard to beat when you use home-sawn lumber to make something for your house. Why not take your woodworking skills to the next level and create something truly special from the free natural resources in your own backyard? The possibilities are truly endless! If you would like to see more inspirational wood project examples, check out the Woodland Mills Product Owners & Community Facebook group where sawyers post ideas, tips, photos, and free woodworking plans.