This project was built and designed by Stan Sullivan. It’s a thoughtfully designed compost bin that balances form and function, making it a useful yet attractive addition to any backyard.
Stan walks through each part of the build in a practical, no-frills way, showing how a simple structure can turn yard waste and kitchen scraps into rich, usable compost. Built with weather-resistant materials and careful planning, this bin is made to last for years of sustainable gardening.
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Why Build a Compost Bin?
A compost bin provides an easy way to reduce household waste while improving your garden’s soil. It takes leftover produce, yard trimmings, and organic debris and converts them into nutrient-dense compost.
Stan’s approach goes a step further by considering aesthetics too. Instead of an eyesore hidden behind the shed, this compost bin is neat and visually appealing—something you could place proudly near your garden or patio space.
Gathering Materials and Planning the Layout
Stan uses durable wood to build this bin, ensuring it holds up against outdoor weather. While he doesn’t dive deep into a materials list in the video, the structure includes pressure-treated or naturally rot-resistant lumber, galvanized screws, and hardware cloth for airflow and pest control.
Before building, Stan emphasizes the value of setting out all your tools and components first. This keeps the process moving and minimizes the chance of mid-project interruptions.
Building the Side Frames
The first major step is constructing the side frames. Each piece of lumber is cut to size, then assembled with screws to form strong, square sides. Stan opts to countersink the screws, giving the final product a cleaner look and preventing rust from exposed fasteners.
While he’s careful about measurements, Stan doesn’t stress perfection. His goal is to make a bin that works well and still looks good from a few feet away—especially when friends and family are in the yard.
Adding the Interior Panels
Once the side frames are ready, Stan builds the interior panels. These dividers segment the bin into multiple composting sections, allowing waste to break down at different rates.
This setup is more efficient than a single-bin design because you can turn one section while letting another rest. Stan uses one panel as a template for the others, making the process faster and helping ensure symmetry.
Each panel slides into place easily thanks to precise cuts and a straightforward layout. With the side frames and interior walls installed, the bin starts to take on its final shape.
Assembling the Doors
To make composting practical, access is key. Stan’s door design includes a frame that fits snugly over the interior panel sections, providing full access to each compartment.
These framed doors are not only functional—they’re also neat and well proportioned. It’s a subtle detail, but one that makes the overall project feel finished and intentional.
Installing Hardware Cloth for Ventilation
Stan lines the interior with hardware cloth, a metal mesh that provides airflow while keeping pests like rodents and raccoons out. He prefers hardware cloth to chicken wire for its stiffness and ease of installation.
This step can be done before or after the main assembly depending on preference. Stan chooses a stage where it’s most convenient and accessible, and the result is a strong, breathable compost system that doesn’t require constant maintenance.
Final Assembly and Outdoor Readiness
With all the pieces in place, the bin is fully assembled and ready for use. At this point, Stan makes sure all hardware is secure, doors swing smoothly, and everything sits flat and level.
The final result is more than just functional—it’s tidy, clean, and fits well in a backyard setting. It’s the kind of compost bin you’d want guests to see, especially if your outdoor space is already well-kept.
Long-Term Benefits and Takeaways
One of the best parts of this project is the long-term payoff. A good compost system reduces what goes in the trash while helping your garden grow. With Stan’s design, you don’t have to trade looks for utility—you get both.
His build is approachable for weekend DIYers but structured enough to offer real benefits for years. Whether you’re already composting or thinking of starting, this is a solid upgrade from simple plastic bins or loose piles.
Get Stan’s plans here: https://www.simplyeasydiy.com/2015/04/diy-compost-bin.html.