Flower boxes can be a charming addition to the outside of your home. Sure, you can buy a flower planter at most local stores, but where’s the fun in that? You can build one at about the same cost and make it into a fun, family project!
You’ll need the following supplies and tools:
- 4 x 4 x ¼ pressure-treated plywood
- Electric Screwdriver
- Screws
- Drill with ¼ inch drill bit
- Sander
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Saw
- Plastic Liner
- Potting Soil
- Plants or flowers
- Any paint or stencils to customize your planter
Step 1: Determine the Size of Your Flower Box
Before you begin building any outdoor planter, you have to determine the size. First, decide where you want the box to go or, if you are planning on making multiple boxes, where they will each be placed. Next, measure the length of the area where the flower box will be resting. Now, consider how wide you want the flower box to be and how deep. For this example, make a flower box that is 10-inches long, 5-inches deep, and 4-inches wide.
Step 2: Measurements
With your measurements now being known you are ready to transfer them to the plywood. First, use your ruler and carefully draw out the following dimensions (we’ll be using our example measurements):
- 2 10-inch long by 5-inch wide pieces (Long Sides)
- 1 10-inch long by 4-inch wide piece (Bottom)
- 2 5-inch long by 4-inch wide (Short Sides)
Step 3: Cutting and Preparing the Pieces
Before you begin cutting, remember to follow all safety procedures and do not allow children to use tools unattended. First, use your saw and begin cutting out all of your pieces. Next, sand them down to remove any rough edges and imperfections. Now, test fit each of the pieces together to see if they are a good fit. Continue on otherwise sand the pieces again until they make a nice fit.
Step 4: Assembling Your Flower Box
With the dry run down you can now assemble the flower box. First, lay your bottom panel down then attach the long side panels to it. Next, attach the short ends to the flower box. Finally, drill five rows of three small holes each in the bottom of the flower box.
Step 5: Customizing Your Flower Box
Now you can customize your flower box. First, paint the box any color you want but use exterior paint unless your flower box will be inside. Next, use stencils or a fine paintbrush to make designs on the outside of the flower box. You can also antique the box with white paint then scuffing it with sandpaper and a hammer.
Step 6: Planting
First, line the flower box with plastic planter liners that you have cut and trimmed. Next, fill the planter halfway with potting soil. Now, transplant your plant from the store container to the flower box. Next, cover the roots with about an inch of potting soil. Finally, water the plants and enjoy your custom flower box!
Instructions courtesy of www.DoItYourself.com
