DIY Planter Bench Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about diy planter bench plans. This article features detailed instructions for building an outdoor bench with two planters. The bench is build almost entirely from 2×4 lumber, except for the top trims and for the seat which require 1×6 lumber.  Take a look over the rest of our woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project 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. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

DIY Planter Bench

Bench with two planters plans

     

DIY Planter Bench Plans

Building-a-planter-bench

Cut & Shopping Lists

• A – 48 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 15″ long, 2 pieces – 8″ long PLANTERS
• B – 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 84″ long, 5 pieces – 12″ long, 2 pieces – 14 1/2″ long, 2 pieces – 8″ long FRAME
• C – 3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 53″ long SEAT
• D – 8 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 17″ long TRIMS

• 12 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
• 3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 8′
• 200 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws
• 50 pieces of 1 1/4″ screws
• 200 pieces of 2″ brad nails
• wood glue, stain/paint

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One day

Related

• Planter bench plans

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Building a planter bench

First layer

First of all you need to assemble the planters for the bench. Cut the components from 2×4 lumber at 15″. However, if you want to make the planters smaller or larger, you can adjust the size of the slats.

Second layer

Next, you need to attach the second layer to the bottom slats. Align the edges, making sure the corners are square. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ galvanized screws to make sure the joints are rigid.

Building the planters

Continue adding more layers to the planter, till you get to the desired height. Adjust according to the wanted height of your seat.

Building-the-seat-frame

Use 2×4 lumber to build the frame for the bench. Cut the components at the right size. Drill pilot holes through the long components and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the supports. Make sure the corners are square and add waterproof glue to the joints.

Fitting the seat frame

Attach the seat frame to the planters. Align the edges with attention, drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock the components together tightly.

Fitting the side planter

Continue building the planter on one side of the bench. Add the 2×4 components and lock them into place with 2 1/2″ screws. Add waterproof glue to the joints.

Frame-under-the-top-trims

On the opposite planter, you need to build a small frame and attach it into place. This frame will support the top trims. Drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to assemble the frame. Make sure the corners are square. Fit the frame to the set and lock it into place with 2 1/2″ screws.

Fitting the top trims

Use 1×6 lumber for the top trims. However, you need to adjust the width of the trims to 4 1/2″. Cut both ends of the slats at 45 degrees and lock them into place with 2″ brad nails.

Attaching-the-seat-slats

Use 1×6 slats for the seat of the bench. Use 2″ brad nails to lock the seat slats into place.

Planter Bench Plans

After assembling the planter bench, you should take care of the finishing touches.

DIY Planter Bench Plans

Fill the holes with wood putty and let them dry out for a few hours. Smooth the surface with 100-220 grit sandpaper and remove the residues with a damp cloth.

Top Tip: Apply a few coats of paint or stain to the components, to enhance the look of the project.

This woodworking project was about diy planter bench plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.

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