This project was built and designed by Marcus from Salty Woodworking. It’s a simple and cost-effective planter box that shows how basic materials can be turned into a profitable woodworking product.
Planter boxes are a favorite among buyers looking to improve their outdoor spaces. They’re easy to make in batches, require minimal tools, and offer a great return on investment—making them a strong option for woodworkers interested in selling their work.
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Why Planter Boxes Are a Smart Project
Cedar fence boards are the main material used for this build, making the project accessible and affordable. These boards are typically available at big box stores and can be purchased in bundles, bringing the cost per box down significantly.
Because of their durability and resistance to rot, cedar boards are a popular choice for outdoor builds. Customers love the natural look and longevity, and woodworkers benefit from the ease of working with softwood.
Basic Tools and Setup
To get started, only a few tools are required: a circular saw or miter saw for cutting, an impact driver or nail gun for assembly, and wood glue for added strength. This low barrier to entry makes the project ideal for beginners or anyone operating out of a small shop.
Marcus lays out the process in a way that’s efficient for repetition. Once the first box is built and measured, future batches can follow the same pattern using stop blocks or measured templates.
Cutting the Panels to Size
The panels for the planter box include two longer sides and two shorter sides, all cut from the cedar fence boards. Marcus recommends cutting one piece first and using it as a template for the rest to ensure uniformity.
He also cuts corner posts that serve as the legs, giving the planter box height and structure. These are attached flush to each corner and are usually about 16 inches tall, though this can be adjusted depending on customer preference or design goals.
Assembly Tips for Strength and Speed
Assembly starts with attaching the longer sides to the legs using glue and nails. This ensures that the structure remains strong and aligned throughout the build.
Once both long sides are attached, the shorter end panels are installed the same way, closing the box and forming the main body. Attention to alignment at this stage makes the rest of the project easier.
Adding the Base and Drainage
The base is formed by cutting additional boards to fit inside the bottom of the box. These are attached directly to internal supports or ledges and spaced slightly apart to allow for airflow and drainage.
Drilling holes into the base is an essential step for any planter. Without them, water would collect in the bottom, damaging the wood and potentially harming plant roots. Marcus uses a drill to create evenly spaced holes that allow excess water to escape.
Decorative Rim and Final Touches
To elevate the design, Marcus adds a decorative rim around the top edge of the planter. These trim pieces are cut to overhang the box slightly and are mitered at the corners for a cleaner finish.
This simple addition improves both the visual appeal and the sturdiness of the top edge. It’s a minor cost increase that can boost the perceived value of the planter significantly.
Pricing and Profit Potential
One of the biggest advantages of this project is the high profit margin. With materials coming in around $18 per box, and a selling price around $40 or more, each build offers a solid return.
For woodworkers looking to earn extra income, these boxes can be produced quickly in small batches. With some practice, several planters can be completed in an hour, multiplying potential profits.
Selling Locally and Online
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, and local craft fairs are ideal for marketing planter boxes. Marcus recommends taking high-quality photos, showcasing the planters with real plants to give buyers an idea of how they’ll look in use.
He also encourages offering custom sizes or finishes to increase appeal. Pricing can vary based on your market, but a good rule is to aim for three times the cost of materials to account for labor, tools, and profit.
Scaling Your Woodworking Side Hustle
As demand increases, Marcus suggests reinvesting some profits into better tools. Upgrading from a circular saw to a sliding miter saw, for instance, can dramatically improve speed and accuracy.
Adding tools like a laser engraver or branding iron can also give your products a custom touch, helping your work stand out and command higher prices.
A Simple Project with Strong Returns
This planter box project is proof that profitability doesn’t require complexity. With just fence boards and basic joinery, you can create a functional product that sells well and builds your reputation as a maker.
It’s also an enjoyable project—quick to produce, easy to personalize, and satisfying to see in use. Whether you’re selling locally or just want a nice addition to your own yard, this is a build worth trying.
Get Marcus’s plans here: https://www.saltywoodworking.net/projects/3-picket-planter/.