Okay, let me walk you through this little project I did recently. It started pretty simply, really. I had some leftover birch timber from another build, just sitting there in the workshop. Nice pieces, too good to waste. At the same time, the kids were needing some extra seating in their hangout space, something sturdy but comfortable.

Getting Started

So, I looked at the timber, thought about comfort, and the idea sparked. Why not make a small bench or stool using this birch? To make it comfy, obviously needed cushions. I had a couple of old, firm square ones that were the right size. Then, thinking about the kids’ room, the basketball theme came to mind. Seemed like a fun touch.

Here’s what I pulled together:

• The birch timber pieces
• Two square cushions
• Some basic hardware: screws, sandpaper
• Tools: saw, drill, measuring tape, sander
• For the theme: Orange fabric (canvas worked well), black fabric paint

The Build Process

First up was tackling the birch. I measured out the pieces needed for a simple, sturdy frame. Planned for four legs and supports to create a base where the cushions could sit. Got the saw out and made the cuts. Took my time here, making sure everything was square. Then, lots of sanding. Birch sands down really nicely, but you want it smooth, no rough edges or potential splinters, especially for something kids will use.

Once the pieces were smooth, I started assembling the frame. Just used wood screws. Nothing fancy, just focused on making it solid and stable. I designed the top frame with a slight inner lip, thinking it would help keep the cushions from sliding off easily.

Next, the cushions and the basketball look. I took one cushion that would be the main seat. Got the orange canvas and cut it to cover the top and sides neatly. This was the tricky part: using the black fabric paint to freehand the lines of a basketball onto the orange fabric. Needed a steady hand for that! Let it dry completely. Then I attached this cover securely to the cushion. Could have sewn it, but ended up using some strong fabric adhesive and folding the edges tightly underneath.

The second cushion I left plain, maybe for back support if placed against a wall, or just stacked.

Finishing Up

With the frame built and the main cushion decorated, it was just a matter of putting them together. Placed the plain cushion on the frame first (if using two), then the basketball-themed one on top. The lip I built into the frame helped hold them reasonably well. Checked it for stability, made sure it didn’t wobble. It felt pretty solid.

And that was basically it. Turned out pretty cool, actually. A unique little seat. The natural look of the birch wood is great, the cushions make it practical, and the basketball detail adds that bit of fun I was hoping for. It wasn’t a complicated build, just took a bit of time and care. Happy with the result, and it cleared out some of that leftover timber. Job done.