How to Build a Chest Without a Bench

Cutting the Pieces for the Chest

1). Cut two 2x4-foot rectangular pieces using the circular saw for the bottom and the lid.
2). Cut out two 1-foot 10 1/2-inch by 3-foot pieces. These are the end pieces.
3). Cut out two 3x4-foot pieces for the long sides.
4). Sand rough edges off all cut pieces. Apply wood stain or paint and allow to dry.

1). Stand the two 4-foot side pieces on the long sides on edge, parallel to one another, two feet apart. Insert the end pieces on edge on a short side between them, forming a 2x4-foot by 3-foot-deep rectangular frame. Drive five 1-1/2-inch screws through the ends of the 4-foot pieces into the two shorter sides. Equally space out the screws from top to bottom.
2). Align a 2x4-foot piece over the frame and attach it for the bottom of the chest. Drive a 1-1/2-inch screw down through it around the edges into the frame and space the screws 6 inches apart. Stand the completed portion of the chest on the bottom.
3). Attach the two hinges on the other 2x4-foot piece on one of the 4-foot sides. Use 5/8-inch screws and fasten one 4 inches inwards from each 2-foot end with the hinge portion just hanging over the edge of the board.
4). Screw the other halves of the hinges into a 4-foot top edge of the chest so the lid aligns correctly over the chest when it is closed.