How To Make A Zero Gravity Chair
Have you ever tried a zero gravity chair? These chairs are designed to recline at a specific angle that distributes your weight evenly, creating a sensation of weightlessness. It’s like floating on air! I had the chance to try one at a friend’s house, and I immediately fell in love. But, being the DIY enthusiast that I am, I decided to try and make one myself.
Step by Step Guide
Materials:
- 2 wooden boards, 30 inches long and 5 inches wide
- 2 wooden boards, 50 inches long and 5 inches wide
- 2 wooden boards, 23 inches long and 5 inches wide
- 2 wooden boards, 36 inches long and 5 inches wide
- 1 wooden board, 30 inches long and 2 inches wide
- 1 wooden board, 50 inches long and 2 inches wide
- 2 wooden dowels, 24 inches long and 1 inch thick
- 16 wood screws, 2 inches long
- 8 wood screws, 1 inch long
- Sandpaper
- Stain or paint
- Outdoor fabric, 60 inches long and 50 inches wide
- Outdoor foam, 60 inches long and 50 inches wide
- Thread and sewing machine
Instructions:
- Sand all the wooden boards until they are smooth.
- Stain or paint all the wooden boards and let them dry completely.
- Take two of the 30-inch boards and two of the 50-inch boards and screw them together to form a rectangle. Repeat with the other two 30-inch and 50-inch boards.
- Take one of the rectangles and attach one 23-inch board to each of the shorter sides, about 5 inches from the top. Repeat with the other rectangle.
- Take one of the rectangles with the 23-inch boards attached and attach one of the 36-inch boards to each of the longer sides, about 5 inches from the bottom. Repeat with the other rectangle.
- Take the remaining two 36-inch boards and attach them to the inside of the rectangles, about 5 inches from the top. These will be the arms of the chair.
- Attach the wooden dowels to the inside of the rectangles, about 10 inches from the top. These will be the supports for the fabric.
- Cut the outdoor foam to the same size as the rectangles, and cut the outdoor fabric to the same size plus 6 inches on each side. Sew the fabric together on three sides, leaving one of the longer sides open.
- Slide the fabric over the wooden frame and attach it to the wooden dowels with the 1 inch screws.
- Attach the 2-inch wide boards to the bottom of the chair legs to stabilize the chair.
- Enjoy your new zero gravity chair!
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Use high-quality outdoor fabric and foam so that your chair lasts longer.
- Choose a stain or paint that complements your outdoor decor.
- Make sure all the wooden boards are sanded smooth to prevent splinters.
- Measure twice, cut once!
- Add a headrest for extra comfort.
- Make multiple chairs and create a seating area in your backyard.
- Invest in a good sewing machine for the fabric.
- Try different angles for the recline until you find the most comfortable one.
- Use a waterproof cover to protect your chair during rainy seasons.
- Experiment with different colors and patterns for the fabric.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Customizable to your taste and needs
- Less expensive than buying a pre-made zero gravity chair
- A fun DIY project
Cons:
- Requires a certain level of woodworking and sewing skills
- Might not be as sturdy as a pre-made chair
- Requires some time and effort to make
Personal Review and Suggestion
Making my own zero gravity chair was a challenging but rewarding experience. The chair turned out great, and I love using it to relax in my backyard. My suggestion would be to take your time when making the chair and to not rush the process. Also, invest in high-quality materials to ensure that your chair lasts longer. Overall, I highly recommend trying to make your own zero gravity chair!
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular foam and fabric instead of outdoor materials?
A: It is not recommended to use regular materials as they might not withstand outdoor weather conditions and might deteriorate faster.
Q: What angle should the chair recline at?
A: The chair should recline at a 30-degree angle for optimal weight distribution.
Q: How much did it cost to make the chair?
A: The cost of making the chair will vary depending on the quality of the materials used and the tools available. On average, it can cost between $50-$100.