How to Build Large Wooden Planters with Fence Pickets

Brady Hommel has created a fantastic guide for building large planters that are both stylish and functional. These planters are perfect for enhancing outdoor spaces and can be built using just five fence pickets for about $10 in materials.

Materials Needed:

  • 5 Fence Pickets (1.97 each)
  • Gorilla Glue or other exterior-grade adhesive
  • Wood screws (1 inch or 1.25 inch recommended)
  • 1-inch Brad Nails
  • Thompson Water Seal (optional for finishing)
  • Rope (optional for handles)
  • Sandpaper (80 grit recommended)

Tools Needed:

  • Miter Saw
  • Orbital Sander or Sanding Mouse
  • Brad Nailer or Hammer
  • Paint Brushes
  • Pencil and Measuring Tape

Step 1: Sand the Pickets

Start by using an orbital sander with an 80 grit pad to smooth the surface of the fence pickets. This step is crucial as it helps the stain adhere better and allows for a stronger glue joint. If you don’t have an orbital sander, a sanding mouse can be a cost-effective alternative.

Sanding the fence pickets

Step 2: Cut the Pickets

Next, take two of your pickets to the miter saw and begin cutting them down to size. To maximize material, follow these cutting lengths:

  1. Cut two pieces at 24 inches.
  2. Cut seven pieces at 22 inches.
  3. Cut one board at 16.25 inches.
  4. Cut two boards at 13.5 inches.
  5. Cut three boards at 12.25 inches.
Cutting pickets to size

Step 3: Rip Cuts

For the rip cuts, take your three 24-inch pieces and set your saw fence to 2 inches to cut four pieces. Then adjust to 1.375 inches to cut additional pieces as required. Label your pieces to keep track.

Making rip cuts on the pickets

Step 4: Assemble the Panels

Start by taking two of the leg cuts (2 inches wide and 24 inches long) and two cross-section pieces. Mark where you will attach the cross-sections and use glue and brad nails to secure them. Repeat this process for all four side panels.

Assembling the planter panels

Step 5: Add the Uprights

Now it’s time to add the uprights. Use a quarter-inch spacer to evenly space the uprights on each panel. Ensure the tops are flush and secure them using glue and brad nails.

Adding uprights to the panels

Step 6: Attach Top Trim Pieces

Glue and nail the top trim pieces onto the panels. If there’s any overhang, that will be cleaned up during the final sanding.

Attaching top trim pieces

Step 7: Create the Bottom Floor

Measure and cut pieces for the bottom floor of the planter using leftover scraps. This will provide support for the pot that will rest inside.

Preparing the bottom for the planter

Step 8: Add Decorative Handles (Optional)

To make the planters easier to move, consider adding handles. Cut pieces from the leftover pickets and attach decorative rope handles to them.

Adding handles to the planter

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Apply a coat of Thompson Water Seal for added durability. This step is optional, but it helps protect the wood from the elements.

Applying finish to the planter

Step 10: Pricing and Selling

For pricing, consider the cost of materials and the size of the planter. Brady suggests starting at around $100 for these large planters, but ultimately, it’s up to you to determine pricing based on your local market.

With these steps, you can create beautiful, large planters that are perfect for your home or for selling.

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