I hope everyone is enjoying the start of Summer. I feel like I'm barely making my way through these last few days of school, but today is the last day and maybe I'll be able to take a breath (probably not), one can dream, right? One thing I look forward to during the summer months is just being outside at all times. We eat as many meals as possible outdoors and just love hanging around. We are hoping to do a pretty big makeover to the outside of our house, but things like hot water heaters and furnaces keep breaking along with other random electrical problems in our little foreclosure house. So since I can't regrade the yard and have new landscaping put in right this second, I'll just focus on all the fun little decor parts - like this DIY Planter.
How to Build a Planter
This planter is a great way to get introduced to some of my favorite tools, like the Kreg Jig and a miter saw. Seriously.. those might be my all-time favorites! They make everything so much more fun in woodworking! The good news is that I will be giving away a fun little gift package from Kreg Jig at the end of this post, so when you are done taking a little peek at the tutorial here, don't forget to enter!
| Supplies: | Tools: (contains some affiliate links) |
| - (4) 1x4's @ 8' - (1) 1x2 @ 8' - (2) 2x4'a @ 8' - Rope - Wood Stain - Waterproof Sealant | - Miter Saw - Impact Driver or Drill - Nail Gun - Kreg Jig  - Clamps - Wood Glue |
| Cut List: |
| - (12) 1x4's @ 36" - (4) 2x4's @ 36" - (8) 1x4's @ 10 ½" - (2) 1x2's @ 10 ½" - (4) 1x2's @ 14 ½" |
Prepare to Build the Planter
After you cut your pieces we are going to get started with the pocket holes. You might want to measure as you go after you build the main frame just because measurements can get slightly off. We will start things off by building the sides which means adding your pocket holes where you see all the x's. Each 1x4 will have 3 pocket holes, with the exception of 4 that will need pocket holes going both directions in order to attach the 2x4's. (The 1x4 with 6 pocket holes- 3 need to point one direction and the other 3 need to point the opposite direction of those.) We will be making two of these sides.
In order to get the proper space between the 1x4 & 2x4 I simply used a scrap 1x4 to create a flat surface in order to install the wood screws into the pocket holes, and it makes a nice surface with the clamps. So it will be flush with one side of the 2x4 and the other side will have a ¾" lip. Repeat for the second side.
With the remaining 1x4's you need to create the opposite legs using pocket holes. Then attach all 3 sides together with the pocket holes on the inside. You might have to use a shorter bit to get the screws in to the pocket holes.
Assemble the Planter
Once you have the main frame built, you just need to add the outer frame pieces. I attached the frame using wood glue and my nail gun to hold it in place.
Add Rope Detail to the Wooden Planter
To add the rope detail, drill 4 holes in each corner appropriate to the size of your rope. I tied a knot on the inside of the planter to keep the rope in place.
The last step will be to add the support base to hold up your plant. To do this I attached my 1x2 rails and supports 8" from the top and attached with wood glue and finishing nails.
Now all that's left is to finish and seal your new planter. Make sure you are using an outdoor sealant to keep your wood protected and let it dry completely before using.
Michelle@DandelionPatina
Your woodworking projects always amaze me! I just found an old tool box that had the same rope design on it. So, cool! It looks gorgeous.
Linda @ Mixed Kreations
What a beautiful planter! You did a wonderful job. I like how you added the rope and gave it a twist. Looks beautiful on your porch with the pretty fern.
I am right there with you about trying to update/remodel then something else breaks or needs fixing before you can get back to your original plan. Happens to us all the time.
Thanks for the chance to win the Kreg Jig.
Jill @ The Rozy Home
This is a great planter! I have a bit of a planter obsession and this one is now apart of it. Good luck with the contest!
Jason @ VacuumsGuide.com
Ahh, I just missed this! It looks so nice, I think I may go ahead and build one from what I've been storing in my garage. I'm not proficient in woodworking but I think I can handle this project.
Mila
I love it! Such a neat idea 🙂 I'm getting more and more into wood.
Lisa Ellsmere
Give it a shot!
Mandy
Beautiful! Where did you get the rope from?
Katie
Thank you Mandy. I believe I bought it at Lowes. It is the rope where you pay per linear foot, I found it over by the chains : )
Kayla
Just wondering what type of wood sealant you used for the DIY planter?
Tammy
Can you tell me what colour stain you used for your planter? Thank you !!!
Emily @ The Benson Street
What an adorable planter! Thanks for sharing at the Monday Funday Party!!
Katie
Thanks so much Emily! : )
Malissa - Southern Sawdust
OH I love this! I need something tall and narrow for our front porch and this looks like a perfect fit. The rope is a very nice touch as well. Thank you for sharing!
JimmySloan
This is a great planter! I have a bit of a planter obsession and this one is now apart of it.
DavidLee
What a beautiful planter! You did a wonderful job. I like how you added the rope and gave it a twist. Looks beautiful on your porch with the pretty fern.
Mark
need more 1 x 4 x 8's on your supply list
David Chambers
I've made two similar planters last year but in other shapes and without the rope. It's a cool idea with the rope! I think I'll add it to my planters. Thanks for sharing and interesting blog
Bob Dunn
Loved this, we have what used to be a lovely Green Mountain boxwood in front of our home but it's been slowly fading away in the old keg. Just forwarded this link to my wife. It would fit great with the rustic look of the new birdbath we just had installed.
Quick question - what kind of wood did you use for the one in the picture?
Katie
Thanks so much Bob! : ) I just used regular pine from Home Depot, and sealed it with an outdoor sealant. Good luck and I hope it works out for you!
Deniel
this type of planter can be used for a garden theme coffee shop. So lovely 🙂
Robet Nguyen
Thanks for sharing at the Monday Funday Party!!
Nathan @ Cordless Vacuums
Nice designs. They're really good.
Nathan @ Cordless Vacuums
Those planters are good. I'm considering getting one but I'm not too sure.
Fallon
Hey I’m confused because your list and your cuts don’t match up?
Katie
Hey! I'm sorry for the confusion! This is an older post, and I'm not sure I'm seeing what doesn't match up. If you can direct me to what part is giving you trouble I can get it fixed for you asap! Thanks!!
miniwick
I'm not that good in wood making . but made it look easier to make. and the one which you showcased in article perfectly suits to my house exterior in front.
Jackie
Hi Katie! Thank you for posting this, I’m excited to start making it!! The only change needed is the wood quantities. We need 6 of the 1x4’s @ 8 ft to make the project as is. Thanks again!!
Katie
Hey Jackie! Thanks so much for letting me know that! I'll definitely take a look and make some updates 🙂 Good luck with your project! would love to see how it turns out!!
Glenn J. Blackwell
Ahh, I just missed this! It looks so nice, I think I may go ahead and build one from what I’ve been storing in my garage. I’m not proficient in woodworking but I think I can handle this project.
Ben
Great DIY project! Thank you
Rachael Macry
Awww, That's a really nice guideline. I think I can do it. Thanks
Jolly
This is a really good post and I got a lot of good tips from your valuable post. Thank you very much.
Photography Prof
It's useful. thanks
Glenn J. Blackwell
This is a really good post and I got a lot of good tips from your valuable post.
Michale
it's really a resourceful and helpful content.Like it
Zain Nadeem
This is a really good post and I got a lot of good tips
Robert Myers
I've made two similar planters last year on my small coffee shop.this type of planter can be used for a garden theme office, workplace & coffee shop. So lovely.
Anyway, thank you for the great information.
Curtis
Your supply list is not accurate, this project requires more wood. You also didn't add the screws you used and beginners will have trouble figuring that out.
stephen
This is a really good post beautiful planter. Thanks for sharing
Kevin Bowen
Where do you find plastic containers to fit these planters?
Gerard Hansen
This planter tutorial is great. It will help us during cleaning our wood furniture. I would love to share it. Good luck.
Milos Stojakovic
I love projects that involve recycled wood. These crafts usually have a lot of character and are always unique and special in some way. A planter box is one of the many things you can make out of leftover pieces of wood from previous projects or from boards salvaged from old fences or barns.
Helena
Hello Katie,
Many thanks for this article; i was looking a tutiral for a project this summer. It will really help me.
Helena
James Young
Hey Katie,
Great tutorial here on the planter. I've built some smaller ones before, but this one looks pretty BIG ha. I do have a spot on my patio where I think this could work also. And I love how you color coded those steps to make it easier to see which wood pieces go where. Definitely nice when looking at a 2D picture. Thanks!
Jennifer
Wow. This is so easy I think even I could build one. A planter like this would be perfect for our front entry way. Thanks for the DIY tutorial
Chris
Amazing tutorial. SO simple and easy information! Thanks for sharing step by step Guide.
sara jennifar
Really nice idea, love it. Thanks for sharing nice tips.
Wade
Hi Katie, thanks for the planter idea. I built one like and it looks great. However, I am wondering what type of pot you put In It. I was looking for a 10x14 rectangular pot to fit down In The planter but can’t seem to find one. Any suggestions?
Sage
The illustration looks optical illusion. Thank you for the great tutorial
Thanks
Sage
outdoorballpro
I’m not that good in wood making . but made it look easier to make. and the one which you showcased in article perfectly suits to my house exterior in front.
Floormost
Thanks for sharing. This is a really good post beautiful planter.
PalandSmith
Just quick look at your tutorial and It's nice sharing.
Thanks
James
Yeah the material needed doesn't match up with the cut list for 1x4s. At 96 inches, you can only get 2 cut and if needing 12 total, that would be 6 1x4s needed and maybe run with 84 inch to cut down on scraps. I'm doing this build now and looking forward to the finish
kathy
nicely done
fernando
Wow, very detailed and helpful tutorial. It was very helpful. Thanks for sharing
Florence G. Bernal
You should create Modern Shelves or some kind of room decoration, trying to find ways to make my bedroom have more of a modern look. Awesome article!
William
Love this DIY tutorial. Such a great reading article for me to get ideas of DIY activity. Thank you for sharing this article.
Donna m Tracey
Just rushed out today to get my curb side order materials and your cuts are not correct.
I'm short wood. I love this planter thou - nice job. I'm now going to build it
at 30" high.
Katya Nick
Beautiful designs, I will try to make one for my house. Thank you for motivating, with this wonderful post.
Elica
Wonderful tutorial. I really love this reading. Thank you for sharing this wonderful DIY plater tutorial article.
kinza
This is really too good DIY planter tutorial thanks sharing this article and help us
Emma Watson
I am really impressed with the design. A wonderful piece of art, it is an amazing way to improve the outdoor decoration. You really made my day.
Belle
Such a great idea. Thanks for sharing.
Loria
That looks awesome! I really like how strong the wood grain is underneath the paint. Cool texture
Elizabeth Ann Maher
The Supply list needs to be corrected. This project requires six 1x4x8, not four as indicated.
Sarah Jemin
Thanks for sharing this amazing idea about planter. I like how you added the rope and gave it a twist.
Flora J. Rose
This DIY Planter Tutorial is a fantastic guide for plant enthusiasts! Clear and concise steps make crafting these planters a breeze, while the creative design ideas inspire a touch of nature in any space. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this tutorial offers a fun and rewarding project to showcase your green thumb.
Lizette
This DIY Planter Tutorial is a green thumb's dream come true! With clear instructions and easy-to-follow steps, even beginners can create stunning plant displays. Crafting these planters not only adds a personalized touch to my space but also brings the joy of nurturing life. From design inspiration to the final product, this tutorial is a fantastic guide for anyone looking to elevate their gardening game.
deva
It's inspiring to see how crafting planters can enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing a sense of fulfillment and connection to nature. This guide seems like a great resource for exploring new gardening endeavors with ease.
Chopta Chandrashila
An excellent step-by-step guide that makes creating your own planter both fun and easy—perfect for adding a personal touch to your space!