This step by step woodworking project is about how to make a planter box . This article features detailed instructions for building a 36″ wide planter that requires basic materials and tools. I have designed the plans to keep the expenditures under control and to involve the least amount of work possible. If you are looking for a simple garden project, make sure you check out these plans.
When buying the lumber, you should select the beams with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the firewood shed won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day.
Projects made from these plans
Planter Box Plans
Cut & Shopping Lists
- A – 4 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 36″ long, 4 pieces – 11″ long BOX
- B – 2 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 34 1/2” long BOTTOM
- C – 8 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 13″ long LEGS
- D – 2 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 37 1/2″ long, 2 pieces – 14″ long TRIMS
Tools
Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses
Time
One day
How to make a planter box
The first step of the project is to build the two frames for the planter box. Cut the components out of 1×6 lumber at the right dimensions. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the short components and insert 1 1/4″ screws into the perpendicular slats. Alternatively, drill pilot holes at both ends of the long slats and insert nails into the side slats. Add glue to the joints and make sure the corners are right-angled.
Next, you need to attach the bottom slats to the frames. Drill pilot holes and insert 2″ screws into the slats. Alternatively, you could drill pocket holes along the edges of the bottom slats and insert 1 1/4″ screws into the frames.
In addition, you need to join the bottom slats together using 2 1/2″ screws, after drilling pocket holes. This will add more rigidity to the frame, so you can add more weight to the planter box.
Build the legs out of 1×3 lumber. Cut the components at the right dimensions and clamp them together, as described in the diagram. Add glue to the joints and make sure the edges are flush. Drill pilot holes and insert 1 1/4″ galvanized screws to lock the components together tightly. Alternatively, you can use 1 1/4″ brad nails and glue.
Next, secure the legs to the planter box, as shown in the diagram. Align everything with attention and add glue to the joints. In addition, drill pilot holes and insert 1 1/4″ screws into place. Drill the screws through the inside of the planter box into the legs.
Fit 1×2 trims to the top of the planter box. Cut both ends of the trims at 45 degrees and lock them to the structure using finishing nails and glue. Leave no gaps between the components and smooth the edges with sandpaper.
One of the last steps of the woodworking project is to take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, fill the pilot holes with wood putty and smooth the surface with 120-grit sandpaper. fit landscape fabric to the interior of the planter, to protect it from decay.
Top Tip: If you want to enhance the look of the project and to protect the wooden garden table from decay, we recommend you to cover the components with paint or stain.
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