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Carpentry Pro Framer

Wooden Compost Bin Plans

—

by

Taylor Balthazar
in

Materials and Tools

To build a durable compost bin, you'll need:

Wood:

  • Two 12-foot and three 10-foot untreated cedar boards
  • One 12-foot and one 10-foot 2×4 board
  • Two 12-foot 2×2 boards

Cut these into:

  • 15 pieces of 2×6 at 3 feet
  • 2 pieces of 2×6 at 3 feet 3 inches
  • 14 pieces of 2×4 at 3 feet
  • 2 pieces of 2×2 at 3 feet
  • 2 pieces of 2×2 at 1 foot 3 3/4 inches
  • 2 pieces of 2×2 at 3 feet 1/2 inch
  • 3 pieces of 2×2 at 2 feet 9 inches

Hardware:

  • 15 feet of 3-foot tall hardware cloth
  • #8 2-1/2-inch deck screws
  • #8 1-inch wood screws
  • 3×3-foot piece of corrugated polycarbonate
  • Clear silicone sealant
  • Gate handles, door hinges, latch post safety hasps
  • Flat corner braces and T-plates

Tools:

  • Cordless drill with 1/8" drill bit and driver bit
  • Circular saw
  • Staple gun and staples
  • Carpenter's square
  • Diagonal pliers
  • Pencil and tape measure
  • Fence post driver

Double-check your materials list before starting to ensure a smooth building process.

An organized display of materials and tools needed for building a compost bin, including cedar boards, hardware cloth, screws, and various carpentry tools

Building the Bin Frame

Start by assembling the side panels:

  1. Lay out five 3-foot 2×6 boards evenly spaced.
  2. Place three 3-foot 2×4 boards between them for support.
  3. Ensure all boards are square and flush.
  4. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting.
  5. Secure the 2x6s to the 2x4s using 2-1/2-inch deck screws.
  6. Repeat for the opposite side panel.

Build on a flat surface to ensure the sides are perfectly aligned when stood upright. This foundation sets the stage for a sturdy compost bin that will serve you well for years to come.

A person assembling the side panel of a compost bin, with evenly spaced cedar boards and support beams

Securing and Adding Features

  1. Install hardware cloth:
    • Tip side panels upright.
    • Roll out hardware cloth inside panels.
    • Staple securely every 3-4 inches along edges.
    • Pay extra attention to the bottom panel for critter prevention.
  2. Fit doors with hinges:
    • Align door panels flush with bin's front.
    • Mark hinge positions and pre-drill holes.
    • Secure hinges with screws.
  3. Install latches:
    • Position on front doors, about 3 inches from top and bottom.
  4. Secure the lid:
    • Use corner braces to attach polycarbonate panel.
    • Ensure snug fit over the top for easy removal and protection.

These steps will create a functional compost bin that keeps critters out while allowing for proper aeration and easy access.

A close-up view of someone installing hardware cloth and hinges on a compost bin frame

Position and Installation

Find an ideal location for your compost bin:

  • Level and accessible spot
  • Near kitchen and garden
  • Partial sun
  • A few feet away from structures

To install:

  1. Drive fence stakes into each corner using a post driver.
  2. Ensure the bin is stable and level.
  3. Check that doors open smoothly and stay aligned.

Your compost bin is now ready to transform kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

A fully installed wooden compost bin in a garden, with stakes driven into the ground at each corner

You've built a practical compost bin that will help reduce waste and nourish your garden. This project is a step towards a more sustainable backyard and reflects your commitment to environmental stewardship. Enjoy watching nature turn scraps into valuable soil for your plants!

  1. Environmental Protection Agency. Composting At Home. 2021.
  2. Rynk R. On-Farm Composting Handbook. Northeast Regional Agricultural Engineering Service. 1992.