DIY Camping Folding Stool: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 09/05/2025

Camping is a fantastic way to reconnect with nature, but hauling heavy gear can quickly dampen the spirit of adventure. One often-overlooked item that adds significant weight to your pack is a camping stool. Why struggle with uncomfortable rocks or damp ground when you can have your own portable seating solution? This guide will show you how to construct a sturdy yet lightweight folding camping stool entirely from readily available materials, saving you money and making your next trip significantly more comfortable. Forget expensive store-bought options; with a little DIY ingenuity, you can craft a custom stool perfectly suited to your needs.

Building your own camping stool is easier than you might think, requiring only basic tools and materials. This step-by-step guide will walk you through each stage of the process, from selecting the right wood to the final assembly, ensuring even beginners can achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing result. Let's get started and create the perfect companion for your next outdoor adventure!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Ash wood
  • Dowels
  • Crosscut sled
  • Drill press
  • Forstner bit
  • Bobbin sander
  • Disc sander
  • Router table
  • Round over bit
  • Random orbital sander
  • Bandsaw
  • Miter gauge
  • Auxiliary fence
  • Oak wood
  • PVA wood glue
  • Japanese saw
  • Tongue oil
  • Leather
  • Stanley knife
  • Rivets
  • Rotary punch
  • Setting tool
  • Mallet
  • Side cutters
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use appropriate safety glasses when using power tools like saws or drills. Wood splinters and flying debris can cause serious eye injuries.
  • Ensure all screws and joints are securely fastened before using the stool. A poorly constructed stool can collapse under weight, leading to injury.
  • Inspect the finished stool thoroughly before each use. Check for any loose screws, cracks in the wood, or other signs of damage that could compromise its stability.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wood

    • Rip the ash wood into two pieces.
    • Cut the wood to length using a crosscut sled.
    • Cut dowels to size using the crosscut sled.
    Cut dowels to size using the crosscut sled.Cut dowels to size using the crosscut sled.Cut dowels to size using the crosscut sled.
    Prepare the Wood

  2. Prepare the Joints

    • Mark and drill holes for the dowels.
    • Widen holes using a bobbin sander to accommodate dowels.
    • Round over the ends of the wood pieces using a disc sander and router table.
    • Cut slots on the bandsaw to accommodate wedges for locking the dowels.
    Cut slots on the bandsaw to accommodate wedges for locking the dowels.Cut slots on the bandsaw to accommodate wedges for locking the dowels.Cut slots on the bandsaw to accommodate wedges for locking the dowels.
    Prepare the Joints

  3. Prepare the Wedges

    • Cut wedges from oak wood.
    Cut wedges from oak wood.
    Prepare the Wedges

  4. Assemble the Stool

    • Assemble the stool by gluing and wedging the dowels in place.
    • Trim the wedges flush using a Japanese saw.
    Trim the wedges flush using a Japanese saw.
    Assemble the Stool

  5. Finishing Touches

    • Sand the stool down.
    • Apply three coats of tongue oil.
    • Cut and attach the leather seat using rivets.
    Cut and attach the leather seat using rivets.Cut and attach the leather seat using rivets.
    Finishing Touches
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Tips

  • Cut slots for wedges in the opposite direction of the wood grain to prevent splitting.
  • Use contrasting color wedges for aesthetic appeal.
  • Make the legs slightly longer for improved comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong type of wood

Reason: Softwoods like pine are prone to splintering and warping, especially when exposed to moisture.
Solution: Opt for hardwoods like oak or maple for greater durability and resistance to weather.

2. Incorrectly attaching the hinges

Reason: Poorly aligned or loosely attached hinges can lead to a wobbly or unstable stool.
Solution: Ensure hinges are precisely aligned and securely fastened with appropriate screws and glue.

3. Ignoring proper sanding and finishing

Reason: Rough surfaces can cause discomfort and unfinished wood is vulnerable to damage.
Solution: Sand all surfaces thoroughly and apply a protective sealant or paint for weather resistance and a smooth finish.

FAQs

What type of wood is best for a DIY folding camping stool?
Hardwoods like oak or ash are durable and strong, but softer woods like pine are easier to work with for beginners. Choose a wood that's appropriately treated for outdoor use to resist moisture and rot.
What tools do I need to build this stool?
You'll need basic woodworking tools such as a saw (hand saw or circular saw), drill, screwdriver, sandpaper, measuring tape, and clamps. A jigsaw might be helpful for more intricate cuts, depending on your design.
How much weight can my DIY stool support?
The weight capacity depends on the wood type, dimensions, and the strength of your joints. A well-built stool using appropriate materials should comfortably support an average adult's weight (200-250 lbs), but always test it gently before placing significant weight on it.
Building your own camping stool can be a rewarding project, offering customization and cost savings. But if DIY isn't your thing, or you're looking for inspiration before you begin, you might want to check out our review of the best red camping stools on the market. This will give you a great sense of different styles and features to consider whether you’re crafting your own or buying one ready-made. Now, let's get started on your own personalized folding stool!