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How to make your own camping lounger

camping lounger at the beach

Overview

Fancy a new project in time for your next camping trip? Why not make your own stylish leaning lounger chair to laze on under the stars or at the beach, with this step-by-step D.I.Y. guide. These comfy beach chairs are the ultimate in camp-friendly seating, and the instructions here make two foldaway backs from one panel. Open each leaner with the hook facing back, place the cushion’s short side against it and tie through the holes to secure.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Mark panel and cut

    Mark an 1800mm x 450mm timber panel in half and half again to cut four equal square pieces using a circular saw with a straightedge. Sand the cuts with 180-grit abrasive paper, rounding them over to match the factory edges.

    A wooden panel with a ruler measuring the side. A pencil is marking a line in the middle.
  2. 2

    Drill tie holes and apply oil

    With the factory edge as the top, make two cushion-tie holes on the fronts, marking 20mm in from the base corners to drill with an 8mm bit. Sand and wipe away dust. Apply two coats of oil with a clean cloth, leaving to dry after each.

    A panel of wood with a hole drilled in the corner.
  3. 3

    Secure hinges and carry handles

    Place the tops together, best sides down, to secure 50mm hinges 40mm in from the sides with 16mm screws. Secure carry handles at the centre of the top edge of the fronts.

    Tip: Use a 2mm bit to pre-drill all hardware, tightening the supplied screws by hand with a screwdriver.
    A panel of wood with a metal ruler and a hinge placed on top
  4. 4

    Position, check and secure cabin hook

    With the assembly sideways, mark the edge of the front, 100mm down from the top, to secure a cabin hook. Mark the edge of the back, 100mm down from the top, to position the plate, checking the hook fits smoothly before securing. Add the cushion and you’re done making your very own camping lounger!

    *Timbers vary by region; contact your local store for further information.

    A person using a drill to screw in a cabin hook to the side of a wooden panel
  5. 5

    Keep in mind…

    • Always wear the recommended safety gear to use power tools. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when using cutting tools and sanding. 
    • If spray-painting, wear eye protection, a mask and gloves. Work outside or in a well-ventilated area. Cover nearby areas with a drop sheet to avoid overspray. 
    • For maximum protection from moisture and UV damage, choose marine grade plywood, stainless-steel hardware and exterior finishes. 
    • Take care when setting up the lounger chairs to avoid getting fingers trapped in the hinges.  

     

  6. 6

    Planning your next camping trip?

    Here’s how to go from camping to glamping on a budget.

    Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

     

    Photo Credit: Belinda Merrie, Sam van Kan

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.