“DIY outdoor projects can be a fun and fulfilling way to spend the dog days of summer in the Pacific Northwest.”
These eight DIY summer projects—hammocks, dunk tanks, lanterns, and more—will help you make the most of Seattle’s sunny season.
Here at Dunn Lumber, we believe DIY outdoor projects can be a fun and fulfilling way to spend the dog days of summer in the Pacific Northwest. They’re also cost-effective and endlessly customizable, allowing you to get your backyard just the way you like it, whether you’re hosting friends, dreaming up kid-friendly activities, or looking to relax with your family.
Want to build a slip-and-slide that fits your outdoor space perfectly—and has fun features your kids (and you) will love? Looking to create a relaxing place to read or nap in the shade? Hoping to add some stylish and functional touches to your outdoor dining setup? Check out these summer DIY ideas for some inspiration.
How To Make a Slip and Slide
Slip and slides are a fun way to cool off on a hot summer day, and when you build your own, you can add whatever features you’d like. Our Dunn Lumber DIY version includes PVC arches that spray water and a splash pool at the end.
How To Build a DIY Dunk Tank
Dunk tanks are a fun addition to barbecues at the park, family reunions, backyard hangouts with friends—or that one week every summer where Seattle gets so hot that getting soaked is a necessity. In this creative DIY project, you’ll build a dunk tank that pours water onto the dunk-ee below.
How To Make a Hammock and a Hammock Stand
At Dunn Lumber, we know it’s important to take time to recharge, and what’s a better way to do so than with a hammock, some shade, and a great book? In these tutorials, you’ll learn how to create your own hammock big enough for two, as well as a sturdy hammock stand—no trees needed.
Make your own hammock and hammock stand
How To Make a Lounge Chair
Adirondack chairs are a summer staple and have a rustic backyard charm—but sometimes you want to recline even more and, well, lounge. This DIY chaise lounge chair is unique, adjustable, and comfortable.
How To Make a DIY Patio Cooler Stand
Backyard summer fun in Seattle always goes better with an ice-cold beverage. Level up your cooler game by building a DIY patio cooler stand, complete with features like a cupboard, space for a serving tray, and a bottle opener.
How To Make a Wooden Lantern—and DIY Citronella Candles
Just because the sun is setting doesn’t mean your day has to end. DIY wooden lanterns are a great option for adding ambiance to your outdoor oasis. Want to keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy the cooler temperatures? Craft your own citronella candle (or 10) and stay bite-free with a style that suits you.
Make your own wooden lanterns and citronella candles
