We followed this guide https://www.handymanwire.com/articles/gardenbenchplans.html. This is my first real project since moving out on my own, and my first time ever doing a (carpentry) joint. I’m overjoyed with the results!
I’m very ignorant with regards to lacquer, varnish, stain, sealant etc., any guidance in that area would be very helpful.


A lovely, fine, solid bench it is!
Maybe tung oil? It’s natural, relatively inexpensive, and works.