Materials and Tools
For your wooden planter bench, you'll need cedar or pressure-treated lumber, deck screws, and plastic planting containers. Cedar offers natural durability, while pressure-treated wood resists rot effectively.
Essential tools include:
- Miter saw for precise cuts
- Drill for assembly
- Sanding block for smoothing edges
- Tape measure
- Square
- Spirit level
Cedar fence pickets work well for lining planter interiors, offering a charming look without excessive cost. Remember safety gear: goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands.
Building the Planter Boxes
Start by cutting cedar fence boards to your desired length using a table saw. Build the frame with pressure-treated wood posts for corners, providing stability.
Position fence boards precisely, overlapping them for an appealing look. Secure boards to posts with deck screws, drilling pilot holes first to prevent splitting. Use a spirit level and square to ensure everything is straight and neat.
After assembly, sand the edges for a polished finish. Your completed planter boxes now combine cedar's beauty with the strength of pressure-treated posts, ready for your garden or patio.
Bench Assembly and Integration
Prepare cleats from 2×2 stock to support the bench seat. Attach these to the planter boxes' inside faces at mid-height, ensuring they're level and parallel.
Cut cedar seat boards to span between planters. Sand them for a smooth surface, then place them onto the cleats. Secure boards with exterior-grade screws, maintaining proper alignment.
"To give the appearance of traditional joinery, I simply cut half of the boards a little long, rounded their corners, and overlapped them at the corners of the box."
Position the assembled bench in its final location, making any necessary adjustments. You've now created a functional and stylish outdoor seat nestled among your chosen plants.
Your wooden planter bench now offers a comfortable spot to relax in your garden, combining practicality with charm. Consider adding seasonal plants to keep your bench looking fresh year-round. With proper care, this DIY project will enhance your outdoor space for years to come.
- Craig L. Eagle Scout Project: Wooden Benches for Holy Spirit Preparatory School. Troop 370, St. James United Methodist Church.
- Forcucci C. Eagle Scout Project: Wooden Park Benches for Ocee Park. Troop 69, Alpharetta Methodist Church.
- Brill A. Eagle Scout Project: Planter Boxes, Bench, and Deck for Alpharetta Senior Services Center. Troop 3000, Birmingham United Methodist Church.