Outdoor Daybed with Canopy Posts

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on both ends of each horizontal board. Attach to the legs with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws. Build two identical side panels.

Pocket holes can be filled with plugs or exterior wood filler if any end up visible in the finished piece.

Drill two pocket holes on each end of every horizontal board — three per end on the 2x6 apron boards, which carry more of the structure's weight than the 2x4s. Attach to the legs with 2-1/2" pocket hole screws, keeping every pocket hole on the inside faces where they stay hidden.

Attach the 2x2 back trim pieces to the back side of the daybed with 2-1/2" self-tapping exterior screws, flush to the back edge.

Attach the back slats to the 2x2 trim with 2-1/2" screws — you can also drive them from outside the leg for extra hold.

Complete the back by capping it with another course of 2x2 and a 2x4 cap, using the 2-1/2" screws throughout. This finishes the back into a real privacy panel rather than open framing.

Attach the 2x4 cleats inside the 2x6 front and back aprons with 2-1/2" screws, spaced roughly every 8".

Measure the actual opening between your two 2x6 aprons — treat 39" as a starting estimate, not a fixed number. Cut the slats to fit from your 2x4, 2x2, and 2x6 offcuts, lay them on the cleats, and screw down with 2-1/2" screws.

Sand and finish the whole daybed. String a curtain rod, sail shade, or drape between the four tall posts for the canopy.