Basic counter stools are a reasonably simple piece of carpentry. If you want to build you own counter stool, it can take as little as one afternoon of your week, and you’ll have a fulfilling, useful furniture piece to add to your kitchen or bar. The sense of accomplishment is well worth it. That’s aside from the fact that you get to design the counter stool, top to bottom, all by yourself.
In designing your own counter height stools, you need to decide a few things.
1. What wood and finish would you like?
A simple and common choice is oak. Oak is sturdy, attractive, and relatively inexpensive. Do you prefer a dark finish, medium finish, or natural finish? Cherry is another popular and beautiful choice. Perhaps you’ll even consider painting your wood counter stools another color entirely.
2. Do you want these to be swivel counter stools?
Kitchen counter stools don’t need the swivel feature. For some, their slim frame is convenient enough. But the swivel is an added benefit. You’ll decide if the extra effort is worthwhile.
3. What kind of seat, wood or upholstered?
A shiny wood finish looks beautiful, so you may not need upholstery. On the other hand, a leather counter stool is very comfortable and a cinch to clean. The leather is durable, as well. Other fabrics are an option as well. You can even sew or buy removable cushions, if you like.
If you decide on a wood seat, you may also consider seat styles. Some people consider a saddle dish seat more comfortable.
4. Does your counter stool have a back?
Backless counter stools are obviously less work to build, and are stylish enough. They’re great for slipping under the counters, and save even more space. For long stretches of sitting, many people prefer stools with a back, however. Backs also have different versions, like the curved or spindle back.
5. How tall is your stool?
This is one of the most important considerations. Counter height bar stools may sound like a standard height in and of itself, but in fact, the right height depends on the counter you are sitting at! Nine to thirteen inches is usually the space you’ll want between the counter and the top of your seat. Don’t mess this one up!
Details of your design may address seat shape, painting, and wood carving. The basic questions are here, however…find a template, and enjoy that build!
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