How to Build a Wooden Planter

A wooden planter is a functional and ornamental plant container ideal for outdoor use. Properly placed, a wooden planter can accentuate and highlight the areas around your house and make it more attractive. Making a wooden planter is easy with the following materials and steps.

Step 1 - Come up with a Wood Planter Design

The first step is to determine the type and size of wood planter you want. Wood planters can be of any size and shape which all depends on the location where you want your wood planter placed, as well as your ingenuity. Come up with a wood planter design that blends with your surroundings for a seamless architecture or a radical design that accentuates your home. Put the design on paper.

Step 2 - Determine the Type of Wood that you Want to Use

You can use any type of wood materials for your wooden planter such as hardwoods like cedar, cypress, teak or wood composites like particle board and plywood. Hardwoods are known for their durability and resistance to outside elements but are expensive while cheap plywood or particle board can be made durable by either painting or staining the wooden planter. Depending on your preference and its availability, choose the type of wood materials that you want to use for your wooden planter.

Step 3 - Measure the Dimensions

After choosing the design and the wood materials for your wooden planter the next thing to do is transfer the dimensions of the side and bottom pieces into your wood materials using a meter stick ruler and pencil. Make sure that your measurements are accurate.

Step 4 - Cut the Dimensions

After marking the dimensions on step three the next thing to do is cut the wood materials to its appropriate shape and size using a hand saw. Wear your safety glasses and working gloves at this time.

Step 5 - Attach the Side Pieces Together

Using a wooden glue, attach the side pieces first. Make sure the pieces are well aligned at the edges. Do not use too much glue. For a more durable wooden planter you can also use small nails to secure the side pieces together. Allow the glue to dry before nailing the side pieces together. You can also use wood screws as an alternative.

Step 6 - Assemble the Bottom Pieces

After assembling the side pieces together, attach the bottom pieces by nailing them at the bottom part of the side pieces. Align the edges of the bottom pieces to each side of the side pieces before hammering the nails in. Make sure the bottom pieces are properly nailed and can fully support the weight of the dirt and the plant it will hold later on.

Step 7 - Paint and Line the Wooden Planter (optional)

Paint or stain your wooden planter with the color of your choice. Painting your wooden planter does not only make it more attractive but more durable as well. You can also choose to line your wooden planter using a garden thrash bag.