Simple One Board Viking Chair

Build a classic Viking chair using one 2×10 board and a few basic tools. This simple two-piece chair breaks down flat, stores easily, and works well for camping, fire pits, or backyard seating.

Materials

– 1 2×10 board, at least 72″ long
– Optional leather, nylon, or webbing straps
– Screws for optional back straps
– Sandpaper

Tools

– Circular saw
– Jigsaw or handsaw
– Drill
– Tape measure
– Pencil
– Speed square

Steps

Cut the 2×10 board so you have two 36″ pieces.
For the seat piece, measure 12″ up from the bottom and mark a horizontal stop line.
From each side edge, measure in 1 3/4″ and mark straight vertical cut lines from the top down to the 12″ stop line.
Cut along both vertical lines with a circular saw, stopping just before the 12″ mark. Finish the cuts with a jigsaw or handsaw so you do not overcut the seat notch.
For the back piece, measure and mark two horizontal lines at 12″ and 13 1/2″ from the bottom.
Measure in 1 1/2″ from each side edge to create the slot layout for the seat to slide through.
Drill holes at all four corners of the slot, then use a jigsaw to cut out the opening.
Test fit the seat into the back piece and adjust the slot or seat edges as needed until the chair locks together. A little wiggle is ok.
Sand all cut edges smooth, especially around the seat notch and back slot.
Optional: Cut or round the front corners of the seat so they are more comfortable, then add two straps to the back for carrying or storage.

Notes

Stop the circular saw cuts just shy of the 12″ line to avoid cutting too far into the seat.
A jigsaw gives better control when finishing the notch and cutting the back slot.
Test fit before sanding too much material away.
Any leftover board can be used to make a small matching tablet or iPad stand.
Assumption: This build uses a standard 72″ long 2×10 board cut into two equal 36″ pieces.

Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes