This project is by GarageSaws. This DIY project not only enhances your gardening experience but also adds a beautiful touch to your outdoor space.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To start building your cedar herb stand, gather the following materials:
- One piece of 5/4 x 6 x 12 cedar
- Two pieces of 5/4 x 4 x 12 cedar
- Eight cedar pickets
These materials will allow you to create a sturdy three-tiered stand. The total cost for these materials was around $102, which is reasonable considering the increase in lumber prices over the past few years.
Step 2: Cut the Legs
The next step is to cut the legs of the herb stand. You’ll want to make them approximately four feet tall, but you can adjust the height according to your preference. For this project, the legs will be cut as follows:
- Two legs at 43 inches
- Two legs at 26 inches
This setup allows for a tiered design with a stable structure. If you want a different height, simply adjust the lengths accordingly.
Step 3: Prepare the Shelves
Next, you’ll need to cut the shelves. For this three-tiered herb stand, you will require four shelves, each measuring 36 inches in length. To achieve this, set up a stop block at 36 inches and cut away.
Step 4: Build the Boxes
Now, it’s time to create the boxes that will hold your herbs. These boxes will be made from the cedar pickets. Start by cutting the pickets to create the front, back, and bottom of each box. The dimensions for the lengths should be slightly less than the shelves to ensure a proper fit.
For the width, you will cut them at 34 and 5/8 inches to accommodate the side end caps. Make sure to give yourself an extra eighth of an inch for play. This will ensure the boxes fit snugly on the shelves.
Step 5: Make the Angled Cuts
Each box will need angled cuts for a polished look. Start with a 22.5-degree angle on each picket. This angle will give your herb stand a professional appearance. After cutting the first piece, use it as a pattern for the remaining pieces to ensure uniformity.
Step 6: Assemble the Legs and Shelves
With all the pieces cut, it’s time to start assembling the legs and shelves. Begin by pre-drilling holes into the legs where the shelves will be attached. This will make the assembly process smoother.
Once pre-drilled, align the shelves with the marks and secure them using screws. Be sure to use at least two screws per shelf for added stability. This step is crucial for ensuring the herb stand can support the weight of the plants.
Step 7: Attach the Legs
Once the shelves are secured, it’s time to attach the legs. Ensure everything is aligned properly and clamp them in place. This will help keep the structure stable while you drill in the screws. You might want to add three or four screws to each leg for maximum stability.
Step 8: Construct the Boxes
With the frame of the herb stand complete, turn your attention to the boxes. Pre-drill the sides and assemble them carefully to avoid splitting the wood, as the pickets are only 5/8 thick. Mark your lines to ensure you stay on the inside of the cut.
Step 9: Secure the Boxes to the Shelves
After constructing the boxes, place them onto the shelves. They should fit snugly, allowing for movement based on sunlight exposure for the plants. Secure each box by driving screws from the bottom into the shelves and from the side into the legs for added support.
Step 10: Final Touches
Finally, cut a support bar that will run between the back legs to reinforce the structure. This can be made from leftover wood or a new piece, depending on your available materials. Attach this with screws for additional stability.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully built a cedar herb stand that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This project not only provides a fantastic way to grow herbs but also enhances your outdoor space.
Feel free to customize your herb stand with paint or additional features to make it uniquely yours. Happy gardening!