In this guide, we will explore how to construct beautiful and functional cedar planter boxes, a project created by PatriotDIY. These boxes are perfect for adding a touch of greenery to your outdoor space, and they are designed to be simple enough for beginners.
Materials Needed:
- Cedar fence pickets
- Exterior wood glue
- One-inch pocket hole screws
- One-inch brad nails
- Wood screws
Tools Required:
- Table saw
- Miter saw
- Pocket hole jig
- Drill
- Clamps
- Brad nailer
- Sandpaper
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Start by selecting your cedar fence pickets. These pickets are typically 5.5 inches wide and 5/8 of an inch thick. To ensure a smooth finish, sand down the rough surfaces of the pickets.
Step 2: Cut the Boards
Set your table saw to cut strips that are one and three-quarters inches wide. Use this setting to rip down your cedar boards. After ripping, take the boards to the miter saw to cut them to length as per the dimensions listed in the plans linked below.
Step 3: Drill Pocket Holes
Now it’s time to create pocket holes in your stretcher pieces. Set your drill bit to half-inch material and drill two holes on each end of your stretchers using the Kreg 720 Pro pocket hole jig.
Step 4: Assemble the Sides
Lay out the pieces for each side of the planter. Each side will consist of two legs and two stretchers. Measure up one and a half inches from the bottom of each leg to mark where the bottom stretcher will go. Align the top stretcher with the top of each leg. Use clamps and squares to hold the pieces together while fastening with the one-inch pocket hole screws.
Step 5: Attach Backer Pieces
Cut backer pieces for each side and attach them to the two larger sides using exterior wood glue and brad nails. Follow this by countersinking and fastening them with one-inch wood screws. Be cautious not to drive the screws too far through the wood.
Step 6: Complete Side Assembly
Once the larger sides are assembled, attach the shorter sides using the same method of exterior wood glue and pocket hole screws.
Step 7: Add Bottom Slats
To provide support and a base for your potted plants, install three evenly spaced bottom slats. Fasten these with wood glue and one-inch screws.
Step 8: Attach the Top Cap
Cut the strips for the top cap at a 45-degree angle on each end. Assemble the top cap by drilling pocket holes and fastening with wood glue and screws. Attach the top cap to the planter using brad nails, ensuring even overhang all around.
Step 9: Final Touches
Your planter boxes are now complete! You can choose to leave them in their natural cedar color or paint them to match your outdoor decor.
This project is not only cost-effective but also adds a stylish element to your garden. For those interested in building these planter boxes, detailed plans are available here.