DIY Scaffold Board Garden Sofa Build – Step-by-Step Guide with L-Shape Sofa & Coffee Tables Plans

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to transform your outdoor space, a DIY scaffold board garden sofa is the perfect project. I originally designed an outdoor corner sofa using Iroko hardwood, which looked beautiful but came at a very high cost. To make this project more accessible, I created a budget-friendly version using scaffold boards and treated timber, affordable, durable, and still stylish.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to build a stunning L-shaped outdoor sofa with matching coffee tables using sustainable and cost-effective materials. With just a few tools and some basic supplies such as scaffold boards, 2×3” timber, gravel boards, screws, wood glue and protective wood oils, you can create a seating area that looks custom-made without the premium price tag.

The paid step-by-step scaffold board sofa build guide includes detailed plans for both left-hand and right-hand L shape designs, plus two coffee tables to complete the set. The finished sofa measures around 2.7m x 2.8m, with coffee tables sized 1.2m x 88cm and 60cm x 88cm. Best of all, the entire build can be completed in just one day, making it the perfect weekend DIY project.

Whether you want to save money on outdoor furniture, love working with reclaimed materials, or simply want a unique, handmade feature for your garden, this DIY scaffold board outdoor sofa project has you covered.

---

Download Your Step-by-Step L-Shaped Sofa Plans

To make the build even easier, I’ve created a digital download build guide available for just £8. The guide includes step-by-step instructions, detailed 3D drawings, cut lists, materials lists, and tools lists so you can follow along with confidence. What makes this download especially useful is that it covers both the left-hand and right-hand L-shape sofa designs, along with the two matching coffee tables.

It’s also fully printable, so you can keep a copy by your side while working — perfect for quick reference on the job. Instead of figuring things out as you go, you’ll have everything clearly laid out, saving you time and making the whole project stress-free, even if you’re fairly new to DIY.

---

Find the Correct Cushions

This sofa is designed to fit the following cushions, although custom cushions and pads can be used depending on your preference.

• Seat Pads – 120cm x 80cm x 15cm         (x3)
• Back Pads – 120cm x 40cm x 15cm        (x3)
• Back Pad – 60cm x 40cm x 15cm            (x1)
• Selection of scatter cushions

Recommendation: POKAR Euro Pallet Quilted Pillow – Set of 8 – £170

Alternative: POKAR Euro Pallet Pillows Water-Resistant Cushions Set of 8 – £260

Design your custom seat pads and cushions here: Lokex Custom Size Bench Cushion, Waterproof and Non-Slip Outdoor Garden Bench Cushion

---

Essential Tools for Building a DIY Scaffold Board Garden Sofa

Having the right tools makes this DIY garden sofa project much easier, safer, and more precise. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item is important:

• Electric Mitre Saw (230mm cut length) – This is essential for cutting the scaffold boards and timber accurately at precise angles. It ensures all pieces fit perfectly, especially for the joints and angled leg cuts. My budget-friendly recommendation: Evolution R210SMS+ Sliding Mitre Saw
• Cordless Drill & Driver (or Impact Driver) – Used to drill pilot holes and drive screws quickly. A powerful driver ensures screws go in straight without splitting the wood, saving time and effort. My budget-friendly recommendation: DEWALT 18V Cordless XR LI-ION Combi Drill & Impact Driver Twin Pack DCZ298S2T
• Orbital Sander – Sanding scaffold boards is a big task, and an orbital sander makes it fast and smooth. Proper sanding prevents splinters, improves the wood’s finish, and helps the preservative and UV oil absorb evenly. My budget-friendly recommendation: DEWALT 18V XR Brushless 125mm Sander
• Electric Jigsaw (40mm cut depth) – Essential for cutting notches in boards for the legs and creating any angled or custom cuts. A jigsaw allows precise curves and adjustments where a mitre saw can’t reach. My budget-friendly recommendation: Dewalt DCS331N 18V Jigsaw Cordless
• Tape Measure, Pencil, and Set Square – Accurate measurements are critical for a level, balanced sofa. These basic tools ensure every cut and join is precise.
• Pocket Hole Jig (Kreg System recommended) – This allows strong, hidden joints in the legs and supports without visible screws. Pocket holes make assembly easier and give your sofa a professional finish. Kreg R3 Master System With SK04 Pocket Hole Screw Starter Kit

Tip: Investing in quality tools pays off with cleaner cuts, safer construction, and a finished product that looks like it was made by a professional. Even if you don’t own all the tools, many can be rented from hardware stores or borrowed for a one-day build.

---

DIY Garden Sofa Materials – Scaffold Boards & Timber Guide

Material	Quantity	Info	Avg. Price
Scaffold board (3.9m)	8	38mm x 225mm	£35 each
Green treated board (4.8m)	2	22mm x 150mm	£12.50 each
3×2” C16 treated timber (4.8m)	4	45mm x 70mm	£16 each
Screws 63mm	70	Box of 200	£17
Screws 50mm	50	Box of 200	£16
Screws 100mm	2	Box of 10	£5
Wood preserver	1L	Outdoor treatment	£15
UV Protective Oil	0.75L	Wood finish	£28

Estimated total cost: £450

---

Step 1: Cutting and Preparing the Scaffold Boards

1. Remove the metal band ends from the scaffold boards with a flat-head screwdriver or chisel. Recycle or discard these.
2. Cut each board to the lengths below using a mitre saw at 90°:

Board	Cut Length	Quantity
A	1900mm	4
B	2083mm	4
C	1200mm	4
D	600mm	4

3. Cut out leg notches on boards A and B using a jigsaw.
4. Sand all boards thoroughly: 80-grit → 120-grit → 240-grit.
5. Treat with wood preserver, then UV protective oil to extend longevity.

Product Recommendations: Barrettine Wood Preserver (£15) and Osmo UV Protective Oil (£28).

---

Step 2: Constructing the Bench Legs

1. Cut the 3×2” C16 timber pieces for the legs (mitre saw set at 8°).
2. Drill pocket holes at the ends of pieces B & C.
3. Apply wood glue and secure pieces using 50mm screws to assemble 4 standard legs.
4. For the corner leg, cut additional pieces E & F, join with glue and screws, and attach to one of the full legs with 100mm screws.
5. Sand and treat all legs for outdoor durability.

---

Step 3: Assembling the Sofa

1. Align the legs and attach the scaffold boards with 63mm screws from underneath (4 screws per board).
2. Repeat for both benches and slide them together to form the L-shape.
3. Cut and attach the back support boards (green treated timber) using 50mm screws, inserted from behind so they are hidden.
4. Ensure all wood is sanded, preserved, and UV treated before completing assembly.

---

Step 4: Building the Coffee Tables

1. Cut 3×2” timber pieces for the table legs (mitre saw at 8°).
2. Drill pocket holes in pieces A & B, then join with wood glue and 50mm screws.
3. Attach legs to the scaffold board tops using 63mm screws.
4. Repeat for the second coffee table (sizes: 1.2m x 88cm and 60cm x 88cm).

---

Flexible Layouts for Your Corner Sofa and Coffee Tables

One of the best things about this L-shaped corner sofa and coffee tables design is its flexibility. The modular benches and tables can be rearranged to suit your specific outdoor space, whether it’s a small patio, decking, or a larger garden area.

The two coffee tables aren’t just for holding drinks; they can also be combined with the benches to create a large daybed, perfect for lounging, reading, or even napping in the sun.

I specifically designed the smaller table to be easily movable, so I could open my double doors fully without obstruction (see image). This adaptability makes the setup practical, stylish, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Benefits of Modular Design

The modular design of this DIY corner sofa and coffee tables offers more than just style—it provides real functionality for any outdoor space. By allowing you to move the benches and tables independently, you can adapt the layout to suit patios, decks, or garden areas of any size. This flexibility also lets you create different seating arrangements for entertaining, or combine the pieces into a large daybed for relaxation. Modular outdoor furniture like this not only maximises comfort but also makes your garden setup highly practical and personalised, giving you the freedom to change the configuration whenever you like.

---

Additional Tips for Longevity and Comfort

• Cover or store the sofa during winter or extended wet weather.
• Treat all end grains carefully to prevent moisture damage.
• Thick back cushions enhance comfort; scatter cushions improve style and relaxation.
• Join the two benches underneath with a small timber strip for added stability.
• Consider premium timbers like Iroko, Oak, or Teak for a refined finish.
• Modular tables allow flexible arrangements; corner placement can even create an outdoor daybed.

Ready to Build Your Own Garden Sofa?

Don’t wait, grab your printable DIY scaffold board sofa build guide for just £8! With step-by-step instructions, detailed 3D drawings, cut lists, and materials lists, it’s everything you need to create a stunning L-shaped sofa and matching coffee tables in just one day. Download your guide now and start building your dream outdoor space today!

Conclusion

Creating your own DIY scaffold board garden sofa with coffee tables is a cost-effective way to add style, comfort, and function to your outdoor space. With just a few materials and tools, you can build a durable, modular seating area in one day. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, these plans make the process straightforward and enjoyable, and with the digital guide, you’ll have everything laid out clearly to ensure a smooth build.