DIY Folding Chair Plans: Build a Space-Saving Wood Chair Anyone Can Make

There's something satisfying about building a piece of furniture that folds flat when you're done with it. No permanent footprint, no clutter — just lean it against the wall or slide it into a closet until you need it again. This DIY folding chair is one of those builds: simple, sturdy, and genuinely useful, whether you need extra patio seating for guests, a compact chair for a small balcony, or your first "real" woodworking project. If you've never built furniture before, this is a forgiving place to start — the cuts are straight, the joints are simple, and you'll have a finished chair in an afternoon.

Materials You'll Need

Hardware & extras:

• Wood screws (1½" to 2")
• Wood glue (optional, for extra strength at joints)
• Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
• Handle — metal or wood (optional, makes carrying easier)
• Outdoor paint or stain (optional, for weather protection and finish)

Tools Required

• Circular saw or miter saw
• Drill and drill bits
• Measuring tape
• Screwdriver
• Sander or sanding block
• Clamps
• Square or straight edge
• Pencil and safety goggles

Skill Level: Beginner Build Time: 2 to 4 hours Material Cost: $23–$39 (varies by local lumber prices and materials you may already have on hand)

Finished Dimensions

Once assembled, the chair measures 19.5" wide x 24.43" tall, with an 11.95" seat area. Folded flat for storage, it stands 29.95" tall — easy to tuck against a wall or lay in the trunk of a car.

How to Build It: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Assemble the Backrest

Lay out your slats and attach them to the frame, then install the horizontal brace across the back. Keep the brace positioned so the frame stays square — check for square frequently as you go, since a slightly off-angle backrest will throw off the whole chair later. Use galvanized or stainless steel screws for every joint on this build, since it will likely live outdoors.

Step 2: Assemble the Seat

Same process as the backrest: install the slats first, then the brace underneath to hold everything square. This piece will carry the sitter's weight, so make sure the brace is snug and the screws are driven straight.

Step 3: Assemble the Chair

This is where the two pieces come together. Connect the backrest and seat frames using the leg pieces so the chair can pivot open and closed. Here's a nice detail from the plan: you can adjust how far back the chair reclines by trimming the rear legs. A slightly shorter rear leg gives a more laid-back angle; a longer one keeps the backrest more upright. Start with small trims and test the angle before committing to a final cut.

Step 4: Fold and Finish

Test the folding action to make sure the chair collapses flat and opens smoothly. If you want to make it easier to carry, add a small handle or cutout to the top of the backrest — a nice beginner-friendly upgrade that makes a real difference in everyday use. Finish with sanding, then paint or stain to protect the wood and match your outdoor space.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Store-Bought

A comparable folding wood chair at a home goods or outdoor furniture store typically runs $60–$120+, depending on the finish and brand. Building this one yourself costs roughly $23–$39 in materials — meaning you can save anywhere from about 35% to over 70%, plus you end up with a chair sized and finished exactly the way you want it.

Build Your Own Folding Chair Today

If you've been wanting a low-cost, beginner-friendly project that actually earns its keep — extra seating you can store away when you don't need it — this folding chair delivers. Grab the full plan with the complete cutting diagrams and step-by-step photos, and use code BUILDIT20 for 20% off:

👉 Get the DIY Modern Folding Chair Plan

Also check these outdoor seating plans:

• 2-in-1 Convertible Ladder Chair
• Cedar Leopold Bench Plans (2x8)
• Adirondack Chair Plans
• Outdoor Bar Cart Plans