Build Your Own Planter

Do you want to add a handmade touch to your outdoor space? This wooden planter is a fun and simple project that you can finish in a single weekend. You don’t need special skills, just a few tools and a bit of time. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to build your own planter using wood, screws and a splash of creativity. It’s perfect to grow fresh herbs, flowers or small vegetables, and you can paint or stain it to fit your style.

• Measuring tape

• Pencil

• Square

• Hand saw or circular saw

• Drill

• Sandpaper (80 or 120 grit)

• Sandpaper block or electric sander

• Paint brush

• Paint tray

• Protective gloves

• Protective glasses (if you’re using the circular saw)

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• Lumber (1x6):

  • 4x 14 ½” (width)

  • 4x 16” (length)

  • 2x 11 ¼” (base)

• Lumber (1x3):

  • 2x 12 ¾” (base support)

  • 8x 16” (legs)

• Wood screws (1 ¼” inch)

• Stain or Paint

Not in the mood to cut the wood yourself? Head to your local Kooyman store where they can cut the lumber to the exact sizes for you!

Start by measuring and marking all your pieces. You’ll need both 1x6 and 1x3 lumber, cut to the following sizes:

• 1x6 lumber:

  • 4 pieces of 14 ½” (width)

  • 4 pieces of 16” (length)

  • 2 pieces of 11 ¼” (base)

• 1x3 lumber:

  • 2 pieces of 12 ¾” (base support)

  • 8 pieces of 16” (legs)Use a hand saw or circular saw to cut everything. If you prefer, ask your local Kooyman team to cut the pieces for you.

Lay two 16” pieces of 1x6 flat and place two 16” leg pieces vertically on each end, on the outside edges. Make sure everything is flush.
Screw them together with four screws on each side. Repeat this step to make two identical side panels.

Turn your side panels upside down, so the legs point up.
Attach one 12 ¾” base support between the legs at the bottom. Use one of the 14 ½” width pieces to help you get the spacing right while attaching.
Then screw the base support in place.

Now connect the other 16” leg pieces to the shorter sides of your planter. Place them on the outside of the width side and screw them in securely.

Take the 14 ½” pieces and fix them above the base support, on the inside of the legs. These pieces form the shorter sides of your planter box.

Repeat this on both ends.

Lay the two 11 ¼” base pieces across the base support. It’s fine to leave small gaps between them. This helps with water drainage.

Use sandpaper (80 or 120 grit) to smooth down all edges and surfaces. You can use a sanding block or an electric sander for faster results. This makes your planter safer and ready for paint or stain.

Now the fun part. You can keep the natural wood look, apply a wood stain, or paint it any color you like.
Use a brush and paint tray for a smooth finish. Don’t forget to wear gloves and let it dry before placing it outside.

Ready to give your outdoor space a fresh update? Grab your materials and start building today. And if you have enough time, why not build two? You can place them at your front door for a welcoming look. Visit your nearest Kooyman store or browse online for everything you need. You’ve got this!

Want more DIY projects? Follow Kooyman on social media for updates on live workshops, and check out our blog for more ideas, tips, and tricks!

Ready to get started? Watch the full video above and follow the steps!