Building a $6 Planter from Fence Pickets
This planter is a game-changer for anyone looking to make money from woodworking. With just three fence pickets, you can create a beautiful, large planter box that rivals those found in big-box stores - at a fraction of the cost.
A Planter for Growing Your Woodworking Profits
I'm excited to walk you through every step of creating these planters, showing you that high-cost materials aren't necessary to produce something both beautiful and valuable. This project is close to my heart, as it embodies the spirit of creativity and resilience in the face of challenges. So, grab your tools, and let's get started on this exciting journey together. Trust me, you don't want to miss this!
Key Features
Affordability: Build each planter for less than the cost of a single 2x4.
High Profit Margins: Sell these planters at a competitive price, ensuring a handsome profit for your efforts.
Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or as a staple in your garden center offerings.
What You’ll Need
Materials:
3 fence pickets (choose the best quality you can find)
Screws or nails suitable for outdoor use
Wood glue (optional for added strength)
Tools:
Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
Drill
Sandpaper or an orbital sander
Measuring tape and square
Step-by-Step Directions for Building the Planter
Step 1: Preparation
Sand down your pickets to remove any rough spots or splinters. This step ensures a smooth finish and prepares the wood for cutting.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
Here’s what you’ll need to cut from your pickets:
Legs: Cut 8 pieces to 2” x 16”.
Side Panels (Frame A & B): Measure and cut boards according to desired size, ensuring Frame A is slightly larger to accommodate Frame B.
Bottom Boards: Cut to fit within the frame for soil containment.
Trim Pieces: Will be cut with a bevel and miter at 7 degrees and 45 degrees respectively.
Step 3: Assembling the Frame
Wall Frame A & B: Place wall boards one inch from the bottom of the frame. Pre-mark screw placements half an inch from the top and bottom, planning for three screws per board.
Pre-drill all holes using a drill bit set to the depth of 1 inch to avoid going through the material.
Assemble Frame A by fastening the walls to the frame with 1-inch screws. Repeat for the second Frame A.
Prepare Frame B similarly but wait to fasten until later for
Step 4: Joining the Components
Lay one Wall Frame A flat, attach Wall Frame B on the sides using pocket hole screws. Repeat for the second set.
Install the final Wall Frame A on top and secure all sides together.
The sidewalls are then attached, utilizing the pre-drilled holes and ensuring everything fits snugly due to the precise cuts made earlier.
Step 5: Adding the Trim
Cut trim pieces at 16 and a quarter inches from tip to tip, maintaining the 7-degree bevel and alternating 45-degree miter cuts.
Pre-drill and attach the trim pieces using 1.25-inch deck screws, ensuring each piece aligns perfectly at the corners for a clean finish.
Step 6: Installing the Floorboards
Place three floorboards (or more, depending on preference) inside the frame, spaced for drainage if necessary.
Some choose to line the planters with felt for a cleaner look or to facilitate easier plant maintenance.
Explore More
Explore my comprehensive guide and step-by-step blueprint for this planter on Etsy, offering a unique blend of style and functionality. Our straightforward instructions are perfect for makers of any experience level, giving you the tools to enhance your garden with an iconic piece that stands out.