How to build a walnut-look 12-cubby bench — 60" × 18" × 18"

Cut list

Step by step

1. Prepare the panel surfaces

   Identify the precut panels and sand their exposed edges before assembly.

   • Label the matching inner and outer layers with pencil.
   • Check the 10 dividers against the 7 1/8" opening height.
   • Sand the exposed edges with a hand block and 120-grit paper.
   • Ease the seating edges with 180-grit paper.
   • Reserve clean, unfinished surfaces for every glued contact.

2. Attach sides and lower dividers

   Fasten the inner sides and lower dividers through the underside of the inner base.

   • Mark six equal openings, each 8 7/8" wide.
   • Set each inner side 3/4" inward from its base end.
   • Clamp the sides and lower dividers square on the inner base.
   • Drill countersunk clearance holes through the base and pilots into the panels.
   • Drive 3 of the 2" screws into each upright from below.

3. Install the middle shelf

   Glue the middle shelf onto the lower dividers and screw its ends through the inner sides.

   • Spread glue over the five lower-divider top edges.
   • Seat the middle shelf against all five dividers.
   • Clamp the shelf with 7 1/8" clearance below.
   • Drill clearance holes through the sides and pilots into the shelf ends.
   • Drive 3 of the 2" screws through each side into the shelf.

4. Align the upper dividers

   Glue the upper dividers onto the middle shelf directly above the lower dividers.

   • Transfer the lower-divider positions onto the shelf top.
   • Spread glue along the five upper-divider bottom edges.
   • Clamp each upper divider directly over its lower partner.
   • Check each upper opening against the 8 7/8" width.

5. Fasten the seat core

   Screw the lower seat layer to the inner sides and all five upper dividers.

   • Mark the upright centerlines on the lower seat layer.
   • Clamp the seat layer flush with the base ends and front.
   • Drill countersunk clearance holes and matching upright pilot holes.
   • Drive 3 of the 2" screws into each supporting upright.

6. Laminate the thick perimeter

   Glue the outer seat, bottom and side layers onto the completed inner carcass.

   • Spread a continuous thin glue film over each mating panel face.
   • Align the outer bottom layer with the inner bottom layer.
   • Clamp the outer side layers against the inner sides.
   • Clamp the outer seat layer over the lower seat layer.
   • Leave the laminations clamped for the full labeled cure time.

7. Attach the bracing back

   Screw the full rear panel to the carcass and every divider to resist sideways racking.

   • Place the cured bench face down on padded supports.
   • Mark every shelf and divider centerline on the back panel.
   • Clamp the back flush with all four outside edges.
   • Square the carcass against the rectangular back panel.
   • Drill countersunk clearance holes and panel-edge pilot holes.
   • Drive the 1 1/2" screws along the marked contact rows.

8. Finish and place the bench

   Apply the walnut finish, allow it to cure fully, and check the completed bench on a level indoor floor.

   • Fill visible countersinks with stain-compatible wood filler.
   • Sand filled areas smooth with 180-grit paper.
   • Apply medium walnut stain to all exposed wood faces and edges.
   • Apply clear protective coats according to the product instructions.
   • Allow the finish to cure fully before indoor use.
   • Check the bench for rocking and loose joints on its intended floor.