Ideal for almost any room in the house, this handsome blanket chest and seat combines simple country styling with plenty of storage under a hinged bench seat. In the bedroom, it holds extra bedding, pillows and clothes. In the family room or den, it keeps board games, toys, video games or DVDs out of sight. In the hall, it’s great for boots and umbrellas. And no matter where you put it, an extra seat is always welcome.

The chest calls for 18 board feet of lumber (we used oak, but other woods will work just as well), a sheet of matching veneer plywood, molding, dowel pins, hinges, nails, glue and finish. It requires mostly straight cuts, and the few curved cuts are traced from full-size patterns.

Even beginners will be able to complete this project. First, the rectangular chest section is assembled using glue and nails. Next, the back rest, arm supports and arm rests are assembled and attached to the chest. Finally, install the lid, add trim pieces and finish as preferred.

The blanket chest and seat measures about 48 inches long by 19 inches deep by 36 inches tall at the back.

The Blanket Chest and Seat plan, No. 789, is $9.95 and includes step-by-step instructions with photos, traceable patterns, construction diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule.

A package of three blanket chest plans, No. C74, is available for $21.95 and includes this chest project and two others. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2.00. Prices include postage and handling. Please allow about four weeks for delivery (for first-class postage, add $1 per item up to $3 maximum).

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o Lewiston Sun Journal, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409. To order by credit card, call 1-800-828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the Web at u-bild.com.