Macy'S Outdoor Furniture

I remember the first time I saw the Macy's outdoor furniture section — it was like stepping into a summer dream. The colors were vibrant, the materials looked durable, and every piece seemed to whisper, 'This is where you’ll relax.' But the prices? They were steep. That’s when I realized I didn’t need to buy a set from Macy’s to have a beautiful outdoor space. Instead, I could build my own, and with a few smart choices, I could make it look just as good as the store’s offerings.^[2]

As a DIY enthusiast, I’ve always believed that the best outdoor furniture doesn’t come from a store shelf — it comes from your own hands. Building your own outdoor furniture can save you hundreds of dollars, let you customize every detail, and give you a sense of pride that you can’t get from any store-bought piece. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional carpenter to do it. With the right tools, materials, and a little know-how, even a beginner like me can create something that looks like it belongs in a luxury patio.^[3]

I’ve spent countless hours in the Macy’s outdoor furniture section, studying the designs, materials, and price tags. But instead of buying, I started sketching my own ideas and experimenting with different materials. It wasn’t long before I had a small, but functional, outdoor table that looked just like the ones I saw in the store — and at a fraction of the cost. The lesson? With a little planning, creativity, and the right resources, you can build your own outdoor furniture that rivals even the best of Macy’s.^[4]

Materials and Budget: How Much Can You Save?

As of September 2026, one of the biggest advantages of building your own outdoor furniture is the cost. I spent just $40 on the materials for my small outdoor table, including wood, screws, and stain. That’s roughly a third of what a similar table costs at Macy’s, and I had full control over the design and finish.^[1]

By shopping around at local hardware stores and online retailers, you can find high-quality materials at a fraction of the price. I found my wood at a local lumber yard, where I got a better deal than I would have at a big-box store.

You can also repurpose old materials to cut costs even further. I used leftover wood from my garage project to build a side table, and it turned out just as good as any new piece I could have bought.

Part of our Budget outdoor furniture refresh guide.

Tools and Setup: What You’ll Need to Get Started

The tools needed for this project are minimal, making it ideal for beginners. I used a circular saw, a drill, a screwdriver, and a few clamps. I also had a table saw for cutting larger pieces, but if you don’t have one, a circular saw works just fine.

Setting up your workspace is also simple. I used my garage floor as my work area, and I laid down a tarp to keep the wood from getting dirty. It’s important to have a flat, stable surface to work on to avoid any mistakes.

If you’re not used to working with tools, take the time to read the manuals or watch a few tutorials before you start. I watched a YouTube video on how to assemble a similar table, and it helped me avoid a few beginner mistakes.

A little preparation goes a long way in DIY projects.

Related: Outdoor furniture refresh budget tips

Design and Planning: How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Set

Before you start cutting any wood, it’s important to have a clear plan. I sketched my design on paper first, making sure the measurements fit the space I had in my backyard. I also considered the height and width of the table to ensure it was comfortable for seating.

You can find free designs online or use a template from a DIY blog. I found a simple table design on Pinterest and modified it to fit my needs. It’s important to choose a design that’s easy to build and doesn’t require too many complicated steps.

Once you have your design, measure and mark all the pieces before cutting. This helps avoid mistakes and ensures all the parts fit together properly. I used a measuring tape and a pencil to mark each piece before cutting it.

“I remember the first time I saw the Macy's outdoor furniture section — it was like stepping into a summer dream.”— Patioreborn editors

Related: Budget outdoor furniture refresh for small spaces

Cutting and Assembly: Step-by-Step Instructions

Cutting the wood is the first step after planning. I used my circular saw to cut the pieces to the measurements I had marked on my sketch. I took my time to make sure each cut was straight and accurate.

Once all the pieces are cut, it’s time to start assembling them. I used a drill to attach the legs to the table base and then used screws to connect the other parts. It helped to have a helper to hold the pieces in place while I worked.

After assembling the main structure, I added the tabletop and attached the sides. I used clamps to keep everything in place while the glue dried. It’s important to take your time with each step to ensure everything is secure.

Related: Budget outdoor furniture refresh mistakes to avoid

Finishing Touches: Staining and Sealing for Longevity

Once your furniture is assembled, it’s time to add the final touches. I used a wood stain and sealant to protect the wood and give it a nice, finished look. I applied two coats of stain and let it dry completely before adding the sealant.

I used a brush to apply the stain and sealant, working in the direction of the wood grain. I made sure to cover all the surfaces and let each coat dry before applying the next one. It took about two hours for each coat to dry.

After the sealant was applied, I let the furniture sit for a few days to cure. This helped ensure the finish was completely dry and protected the wood from the elements. Now, my table looks just like the ones I saw in the Macy’s store, but at a fraction of the cost.

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Tips for Customization: Making It Your Own

One of the best parts of building your own furniture is the ability to customize it. I added a few decorative elements to my table, like a painted border and some wooden handles, to make it look more like a store-bought piece.

You can also choose different colors and finishes to match your home’s style. I used a darker stain on my table to give it a more rustic look, and it blends well with my outdoor decor.

If you want to make your furniture look even more like something from Macy’s, consider adding cushions or a glass top. I added a simple cushion to my table, and it made it more comfortable and stylish.

Your DIY furniture can be as unique as you are.

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Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Furniture in Great Shape

Once your furniture is finished, it’s important to maintain it properly. I clean my table regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and grime. It’s also a good idea to reapply the stain and sealant every few years to protect the wood.

If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, you may want to cover your furniture during the off-season. I use a waterproof tarp to cover my table when it’s not in use, and it helps keep it in good condition.

Taking care of your furniture is a small investment that can pay off in the long run. With proper maintenance, your DIY pieces can last for years and look just as good as any store-bought furniture.

Macy'S Outdoor Furniture