This project was built and designed by Marcus from Salty Woodworking. His approach to simple planter boxes has turned into a woodworking business that consistently generates steady income.
Planter boxes are practical, easy to customize, and in high demand for both residential and commercial customers. Marcus explains how he started with a single box and grew it into a reliable side hustle.
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Why Planter Boxes Work
The starting point was a basic 13×13-inch planter box. It was compact, easy to make, and sold quickly at around $40 each.
As interest grew, customers began requesting larger and more custom sizes. This opened up the opportunity to raise prices and expand the product line.
Marcus now builds and sells three primary styles of planter boxes, giving customers multiple options to choose from. Offering a small product range helps streamline production while still meeting varying preferences.
Keeping Costs Low with Smart Material Choices
Cedar is Marcus’s preferred material because of its natural resistance to rot and outdoor elements. It holds up well over time and gives the planter boxes a premium appearance.
For beginners or cost-conscious builders, pressure-treated lumber is a solid alternative. It’s more affordable and still durable enough for many applications.
Depending on local pricing, it’s possible to build a planter box for as little as ten dollars in materials. This makes the profit margin on each box attractive, even when selling at a competitive price.
Tools and Setup
This is a beginner-friendly woodworking project that doesn’t require an extensive tool collection. A simple saw, either a miter or circular saw, will handle all the necessary cuts.
To assemble the boxes, Marcus uses a brad nailer or screws, depending on the design and available tools. Other basic tools like a tape measure, speed square, and safety gear round out the setup.
Running the boards through a planer can give the wood a cleaner, more refined finish. While not required, this extra step helps the product stand out and may allow for a higher sale price.
Cutting and Assembly
After cutting the wood to size using a basic cut list, assembly begins by building the side panels first. The boards are glued and fastened together to form a sturdy box frame.
Once the sides are complete, the bottom boards are added and secured in place. A top rim is often included as the final detail, giving the box a more finished and professional look.
Adding a rim also helps strengthen the structure and protects the upper edges from splitting over time. The clean lines and tight joints give the box a quality appearance that appeals to buyers.
Final Touches Before Selling
Drilling several holes in the bottom of the planter provides necessary drainage. This is especially important if the boxes will be used for vegetables, herbs, or flowers.
Marcus recommends adjusting the number or placement of holes based on box size and intended use. Small finishing touches like this go a long way in improving function and customer satisfaction.
Some builders choose to stain or seal their boxes, depending on the market and customer preferences. In many cases, leaving the wood natural highlights its character and cuts down on production time.
Why This Is a Profitable Project
Planter boxes are easy to produce in batches and quick to customize based on customer requests. Marcus has shown that even a small product line can yield consistent returns when paired with the right marketing and presentation.
Clear product photos and a few local listings can help attract steady buyers. With repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals, this small project has turned into a steady business for Marcus.
Want to See the Full Build?
Get Marcus’s plans here: https://www.saltywoodworking.net/projects/how-i-make-1000-a-week-woodworking/.