Build a Slipper Chair - Toddler Sized!

09|08|11

I built a full-sized slipper chair, but didn't document my upholstering process. Instead of building another full-sized chair (that I don't need), I built one for my 18 month old! Now I'll share the plans, so you can build one, too!

For upholstering instructions, visit my blog at ladygoats.com

Estimated Cost

$10-$20, depending on fabric/foam choices

Dimensions

Tools

Circular Saw
Jig Saw
Drill
Eye Protection
Hearing Protection

OPTIONAL:
Kreg Jig

Lumber

1 - 2 x 3 x 8
1 - 2 x 2 x 8
1 - 1 x 3 x 8
1 - 3/4" Ply or MDF @ 9 1/2" x 9 1/2"

OPTIONAL:

Instead of the Ply or MDF, you could use the remaining 1 x 3 (cut 4 - 8" pieces) as your seat. There will be a slight gap between boards, but as log as it's evenly spaced and you use 2" foam, it won't be noticeable.

Materials

1 - 1" x 12" x 12" foam (about $2 @ Hobby Lobby)
1 - 2" x 12" x 12" foam (about $3 @ Hobby Lobby)
4 feet of fabric, at least 24" wide.
1 1/4" Screws
2" Screws
Wood Glue
Paint or stain for the legs

Cut List

(A) 2 - 2 x 3 @ 19 1/2" (back legs)
(B) 1 - 2 x 3 @ 8" (back, bottom apron)
(C) 1 - 2 x 2 @ 8" (back, top apron)
(D) 2 - 1 x 3 @ 8" (back supports)

(E) 2 - 1 x 3 @ 9 1/2" (sides of seat)
(F) 2 - 1 x 3 @ 11" (front & back of seat)

(G) 2 - 2 x 2 @ 5 3/4" (front legs)

(H) 2 - 2 x 2 @ approx 7" (seat supports)

(I) 1 - 3/4" Ply or MDF @ 9 1/2" x 9 1/2"

OR 4 - 1 x 3 @ 8"

Instructions

The chair is going to be assembled in two parts. The first part will be the back of the chair, and the second part will be the seat. These two parts will not be permanently attached until after they are fully upholstered.

Step 1

Mark one of your back legs (A) as shown in the image below. Cut it out using either a jig saw or circular saw, and use that as your template for the other leg.

After both legs are cut, clamp together and sand them until they're evenly matched.

Step 2

Attach your top and bottom aprons (B & C boards) as shown. You can either drill through the sides of the legs, or use pocket holes.

Step 3

Attach your back supports (D) as done in the previous step. Placement doesn't have to be exact. Just eye-ball it and try to get it evenly spaced.

Step 4

Build your seat. Use your (E) and (F) boards to build a box, putting the longer boards on the OUTSIDE of the shorter ones, as pictured.

You can either drill through the outside edges, or use pocket holes.

Step 5

Attach your front legs. Measure 3/4" down from the top, and screw into the seat through the legs, using 2" wood screws.

Step 6

Measuring 3/4" down, again, place your seat supports (H) in place.
Screw using 2" screws.

Step 7

Dry fit your chair. DO NOT GLUE! Measure 4" up the back legs, and that's where the bottom of the seat will be. Screw into place and check for level. If everything is good here, move on to the next step.

Step 8

Insert your seat. You can either screw it into the seat supports, or use pocket holes along the perimeter. I found this easier to do while both components were still attached.