Dell from Dell’s DIY shares a detailed guide on how to create beautiful tapered cedar planters that can enhance any outdoor space. Below is a step-by-step tutorial on how to make these planters, including materials and tools needed.
Materials and Tools
- Exterior wood glue
- Stainless steel brad nails
- 1/2″ non-slip feet
- Silicone glue mat
- Silicone glue applicator kit
- Table saw
- 10-inch sliding miter saw
- Cordless 18 gauge brad nailer
- Digital angle gauge
- 15″ square plastic planter insert
Step 1: Gather Materials and Cut the Layers
The project begins with Dell discovering some cedar wood, which he salvages to use for the planters. He starts by measuring the plastic insert that will go inside the planter and sets the miter saw to an 8-degree angle. To save time, he cuts one side of the top layer on all four boards first.
Next, Dell flips the board and transfers the measurements to the long side, which will become the top of the planter. He makes sure to mark guidelines to ensure accuracy in cutting.
Step 2: Cut the Middle and Bottom Layers
Following the same process, he cuts the middle layer using the top layer as a guide. He avoids using a measuring tape, opting instead to mark everything in place to maintain accuracy.
For the bottom layer, he uses the middle board as a guide and makes the necessary cuts. Once all three layers are cut, he prepares to add bevels to the top and bottom layers.
Step 3: Add Bevels and Assemble the Layers
Dell sets the bevel angle using a digital angle gauge and applies it to the bottom edge of the bottom layer and the top edge of the top layer. With everything ready, he begins assembling the planter using brad nails and exterior wood glue.
The bottom layer is assembled first, making sure the beveled edge is flat on the surface. He continues working around, gluing and nailing until the layer is complete.
Step 4: Build the Face Frame
With the three layers assembled, Dell moves on to building the face frame. He cuts four pieces of wood for the right styles and measures the angles carefully to ensure a good fit.
After cutting the right styles, he moves to the left styles, making sure the left style is wider to cover the edge of the right style. All cuts are made with precision to ensure a snug fit.
Step 5: Add the Top Cap and Finishing Touches
Next, Dell adds a top cap with 45-degree mitered corners. This addition gives the planter a polished look, covering the edges of the face frame and the top layer.
He then installs rubber feet to provide grip and prevent the wood from sitting directly on the ground, which can lead to deterioration.
Step 6: Support the Plastic Insert
To ensure the plastic insert sits level, Dell constructs a simple stand using leftover scraps. This design allows the weight of the soil and plants to be transferred directly to the ground, rather than putting pressure on the sides of the planter.
Final Thoughts
Dell leaves the planters in their natural cedar finish, but he encourages creativity, suggesting that they can be stained any color that fits the owner’s style. This project not only enhances outdoor spaces but can also be a profitable venture for beginner woodworkers.
For detailed plans and links to the materials used, check out Dell’s website.