Classic Upholstered Chair

Mark and cut the back legs, insetting the front cut (where the leg connects to the side aprons) by 1/4" to account for the rounded edges on 2x4 stock. Make as many cuts as possible with a circular saw, finishing the interior cuts on the back with a jigsaw. Practice the cut on a scrap piece of 2x4 first. Once cut, lay both legs together and check that the top, bottom, and front sides all match — the other edges matter less. Sand the cuts smooth.

Attach the side aprons to the back legs, flush to the bottom of the front cuts, checking that the two leg pieces still line up — a mismatch here means a crooked chair.

Attach the front legs to the side aprons, tops flush, checking the chair parts still line up.

Attach the front and back aprons, predrilling carefully. Pocket hole screws and glue work well here, tops flush.

Attach the seat back top piece.

Attach the seat back boards, using pocket holes from the back or predrilled screws from the legs.

Attach the base side supports — these add considerable strength to the chair.

Attach the base center support to the sides. Add the corner braces for extra strength, with glue.

Spray-glue the foam cushion to the plywood seat top. Lay the fabric face-down on a table with the seat top on top of it, foam side down. Staple the fabric carefully to the underside of the seat, tucking corners neatly. Attach the finished seat to the cross supports with 2" screws or pocket hole screws.

Sand every exposed wood surface and paint or stain as desired.