3 Replies

Hi Mike,
There are any number of woods that will work,a big part of the strength factor will have to do with what dimensions of material you use,design and joinery, Some of the most command woods used are oak,cherry,maple,poplar,it has a lot to do with what you want it to look like .

woodworking classes, custom furniture maker

It doesn’t so much matter what wood you use, but how far apart the supports/legs are. A six foot span is a lot, for any species of wood, especially if you are putting 3 adults on it. I have a large elm bench at my kitchen table that has about 4’ span between legs; the bench is 2 1/2" thick.

Rob, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

The more important question is what will the finish be? If painted a 3/4 plywood would do as long as the framing is right. Draw out some plans and post on here, different folks can give you some good helpful input.