DIY Counter Bar Stools with Joana Bianchi

DIY Counter Bar Stools with Joana Bianchi

DIYer Joana Bianchi created these stylish barstools with the help of our Simpson Strong-Tie hardware. Not only do they look cool, but they add a bit of extra seating at her kitchen counter. This project is a great way to furnish out your kitchen without breaking the bank. 

Joana Bianchi with her DIY countertop bar stools
Joana Bianchi with her DIY countertop bar stools

Some DIY projects surprise me, and this DIY stool build was one of them. These padded, elaborate barstools were a project I didn’t think I could make for the longest time. I’m glad I finally decided to take on the challenge, though, because with Simpson Strong-Tie® parts they were easier than I expected and they turned out great!! 

Material and Cut List

For each stool I cut 2x2s with the following measurements: 

  • 8–12″ pieces 
  • 2–30″ 
  • 2–42″ 
Cut wood for the DIY countertop bar stools
Cut wood for the DIY countertop bar stools

Hardware needed:  

Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® APRTA Rigid Tie® angles and Outdoor Accents 1 ½" Connector screws 
Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® APRTA Rigid Tie® angles and Outdoor Accents 1 ½” Connector screws

For the seats: 

  • Foam 
  • Batting 
  • Black marine vinyl

    DIY counter bar stool cushioned seat
    DIY counter bar stool cushioned seat

The main star of these stools is the striking black powder-coated hardware. I used Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® APRT Rigid Tie angles to connect the chair frame together and create a perfect 90° angle.

Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® APRTA Rigid Tie angles
Simpson Strong-Tie Outdoor Accents® APRTA Rigid Tie angles

Additionally, to make the chairs, I upholstered the seat with foam, batting and black marine vinyl that I stapled to the scrap plywood.

Seat cushion for the DIY counter bar stools
Seat cushion for the DIY counter bar stools

All in all, I want to thank Simpson Strong-Tie for their support in letting me DIY projects with their Outdoor Accents decorative hardware to furnish my whole house, including my sofa bed and bedframe.

Completed DIY Counter Bar Stools built with Simpson Strong-Tie hardware
Completed DIY Counter Bar Stools built with Simpson Strong-Tie hardware

This line of hardware brings both style and structural strength to anything I build. So I always know that whatever I build using their hardware is built to last. To be honest, I love incorporating their products in everything I build, and their hardware always ends up making my life much easier!

Joana Bianchi in the process of making her DIY counter bar stools
Joana Bianchi in the process of making her DIY counter bar stools

Now you tell me, did you like this project? What would you like to see next? Maybe I can try to do it next year! 

Author: Joana Bianchi

Joana Bianchi is a DIY influencer who works with Simpson Strong-Tie on various projects.