How to replace wood on stools for outdoor use?

[AlisonWonder]

Hello community. I picked up these stools from a footpath giveaway - the twisty metal bases remind me of the little chairs people make from the wire around champagne corks. They are in a state. The existing seats are screwed in and peeling off in layers from water damage. I plan to repaint the bases, replace the seats, and sit them under a tree in the garden. How would you recommend I do the seats, and which wood is best for the elements? I have a woodworker friend who I think will help with the sawing if I can bring the right materials. Thank you for any advice.

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @AlisonWonder 

Yeah the weight is something I hadnt really thought of either. I still like the idea of Merbau and will sketch it up after Mornos when my work day slows a little But having a top heavy stool is something to factor in.

Dave

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @AlisonWonder 

Just did a couple of sketches, I actually dont think it will be too heavy on top anymore, It will be heavyish but maybe 1 and a half times the marine ply Not that Im trying to sell the idea

So we have the top of the seat with its cross supports with existing holes in the metal.

We will reuse these holes and use countersunk bolts to hold the two pieces of timber across the seat. (so the heads of the bolts will sit flush, alternativly you could use timber screws up from underneath and no need for a bolt.) 

Note - pre drill the screw holes with a pilot drill.

These merbau pieces are run at an angle to the metal cross on top of the seat.

Once the two pieces have been bolted/screwed to the seat, then we add 4 ish of timber slats between the two base supports, screw them in.

You will end up with a square top, its ok but if you wnat round then the next steps are for you.

As you have two seats (handy) you can then turn the empty one upsidedown and in pencil mark out where the metal ring is on the top of the seat. (Green dash line) Then you can expand that ring with another one (pink dash)

Using a jigsaw then cut the merbau to fit a little larger (pink ring) so you end up with an overlapping edge.

Note you may need to mark the pieces first, then remove to cut. plus the two rails may need to be marked seperatly (due to thickness of the timber)

Dave

[AlisonWonder]

@Dave-1 Thank you. I'm so grateful that you've done this and I'm glad I came to the community. I will show you when the stools are finished (or partway through if I have questions!). Thank you again.