This woodworking project was built and designed by Drew Fisher from Fisher’s Shop. For more practical and creative woodworking ideas, be sure to visit his YouTube channel, Fisher’s Shop.
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Why Build These Planters?
With warmer weather approaching, adding new planters is a fantastic way to enhance the beauty and functionality of your garden. Drew’s series of simple yet stylish planter designs offers versatility, making it easy for anyone to transform their outdoor space.
Each of these planter designs requires only basic lumber available at most home improvement stores. Thanks to straightforward construction methods, these projects are accessible to woodworkers of all skill levels.
The Four Planter Designs
Drew created four distinct planter styles to suit a variety of gardening needs: a raised bed planter, a tri-level corner planter, a standalone planter with a trellis, and a railing planter. Each design emphasizes simplicity and ease of construction, making them ideal for weekend builds or even small-scale woodworking businesses.
These versatile designs accommodate various garden spaces and plant types, offering practical solutions whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or decorative flowers. Each project can be customized further based on your personal gardening style or available outdoor space.
1. Raised Bed Planter
The raised bed planter stands securely on robust legs made from sturdy lumber, providing generous planting space and accessibility. Drew’s design intentionally avoids complicated joinery, relying instead on straightforward pocket hole construction for quick and easy assembly.
This planter offers ample space for planting multiple types of plants or flowers. It’s an ideal solution for gardeners who want a convenient and attractive raised bed without complicated construction methods.
2. Tri-Level Corner Planter
The tri-level corner planter cleverly fits into corner spaces, maximizing the use of otherwise underutilized areas of your garden or patio. Its stepped design not only saves space but also adds visual interest and depth.
Built primarily from standard-sized lumber, Drew uses pocket hole joinery to make the assembly process fast and straightforward. The playful, multi-level look provides gardeners with the opportunity to creatively display a variety of plants in one compact area.
3. Standalone Planter with Trellis
This standalone planter incorporates a trellis, making it ideal for climbing plants such as beans, cucumbers, or flowering vines. Drew designed it using sturdy materials like 2x4s and simple slats, ensuring both durability and ease of construction.
The trellis is securely attached to the planter, allowing plants to grow vertically and creating a beautiful focal point. This design effectively combines aesthetics with functionality, providing gardeners with multiple planting options in one structure.
4. Railing Planter
The railing planter provides a versatile solution for adding greenery to decks, balconies, or porches. Drew’s design cleverly adapts to various railing sizes and types, making it suitable for most outdoor spaces.
Constructed from affordable lumber, this planter uses concealed pocket hole joinery, offering a clean, professional finish. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for those with limited outdoor space, turning railings into functional gardening areas.
Construction and Assembly Tips
One of the key features of these planter designs is their easy-to-follow construction. Drew uses pocket hole joinery extensively, allowing builders to create strong joints quickly and efficiently without specialized tools.
To achieve a professional look, Drew also demonstrates using a pocket hole plug cutter. This simple tool allows woodworkers to conceal joinery points, creating a cleaner, finished appearance on all visible surfaces.
Finishing Touches and Protection
To prolong the life of each planter, Drew recommends adding vinyl feet to elevate the wood off the ground, protecting it from moisture and rot. Lining the planter interiors with weed fabric further ensures proper drainage and soil retention, contributing to the planter’s longevity.
Once fully assembled, consider staining or painting the planters to match your personal style and outdoor decor. Proper finishing helps protect the wood from weathering and enhances the visual appeal of your garden space.
Why You’ll Love These Planters
Building these planters provides not only practical gardening solutions but also offers a rewarding woodworking experience. Each design is approachable for beginners yet customizable enough to appeal to seasoned DIYers looking for quick, sellable projects.
With minimal materials and straightforward methods, these planters can easily be replicated or adapted. They’re an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their outdoor space, start a small woodworking business, or simply enjoy a satisfying weekend project.