Make Use Of Tree Logs With A Backyard DIY That's Great For Hosting

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If you're tired of patio furniture that rusts, warps in the sun, or costs more than a weekend getaway, it might be time to look at one overlooked backyard resource: tree stumps. What looks like yard waste after a tree removal job can actually become a surprisingly charming outdoor seating area — the kind that feels both grounded and effortlessly stylish. Instead of tossing or grinding down those leftover logs and stumps, you can repurpose an old tree stump in your yard into a nature-inspired bistro table and give it a fresh purpose right where it stands. And if you happen to have a few extra logs on hand, these easily double as rustic stools to round out the space without much added effort.

Tree stump furniture works especially well in yards that feel a little too "finished." The irregular shapes, visible grain, and weathered textures soften hard landscaping and add warmth and character where metal or plastic chairs fall short. Not to mention, this kind of setup is also quite practical; it won't blow over in wind, it doesn't need seasonal storage, and it blends seamlessly into the landscape year-round. If you want a cozy place for your morning coffee or a rustic alternative to a patio bistro set, stump furniture creates an inviting focal point with minimal work. And the best part? Instead of spending hundreds — or even thousands of dollars — on a new patio set, a DIY stump bistro table can be made for little more than the cost of a few basic tools and supplies you may already have on hand.

Once you've chosen a sturdy stump and any extra logs for seating, the first step is to let the wood dry before treating it. Freshly cut stumps hold a lot of moisture, and trying to repurpose them too soon can lead to cracking, warping, or fungal growth. Depending on where you live and whether there's been rainfall recently, it can take a couple of months to a year to air dry the wood, so patience is key. A moisture meter can help you determine when the wood has dried as much as possible. After the wood has dried, remove the bark (for example, with a hammer and a chisel) and allow to dry for a few more weeks.

The next step will be to prepare your wood surfaces. A stump's natural flat top can serve as your tabletop, but you can also choose to add a separate slab. Sand the wood to smooth and remove any rough patches and apply an outdoor-friendly stain or sealant such as Nordicare Sealing Wood Teak Oil to protect it from moisture, sun, and other outdoor elements. It may also be wise to leave the underside unsealed to allow moisture to escape. Treat extra logs the same way to create matching stools.

Finally, if you've cut it from the ground, arrange your stump table and stools in a welcoming spot in your backyard, like under a shaded tree or near a stone fire pit perfect for summer entertaining. If the stump is still rooted, you can just arrange the stools around it. Add cushions for comfort or hang string lights across your yard and you've got a rustic, functional, and eco-friendly backyard seating area perfect for hosting cocktail nights or casual gatherings.