Stop buying planters at the store. Build your own wood box planter for next to nothing

Creating your own wooden box planter is not only an economical choice but also a customizable one, allowing you to tailor the size, shape, and style to suit your space and taste. Building planters from plywood and inexpensive materials gives a personal touch to your gardening projects while saving money compared to store-bought options. This project is perfect for both beginners and experienced DIYers, offering an enjoyable way to enhance your indoor or outdoor garden areas.

The beauty of building your own wooden box planter lies in the ability to customize its appearance to match your home décor. For modern spaces, consider painting the planter in monochrome colors like black, white, or grey, and finishing it with a high-gloss sealant to add a sleek touch. For more rustic or farmhouse-style homes, using a light stain and protecting it with a matte varnish can highlight the natural beauty of the wood and add warmth to your space. Place these planters in areas of your home where natural light is abundant or where they can accentuate houseplants, enhancing both the greenery and the wooden aesthetic.

1 sheet of ¾" plywood (48" x 96")
Wood glue
1 ½ inch nails
Sandpaper (120 grit and 220 grit)
Wood stain or paint (optional)
Polyurethane sealant (optional)
Tools: saw, hammer, measuring tape, paintbrush
Drill with drill bits (for drainage holes)

Measure and cut the plywood into the following pieces: two pieces at 24" x 12" for the front and back, two pieces at 12" x 12" for the sides, and one piece at 24" x 13" for the bottom.

Using sandpaper, smooth all cut edges of the plywood pieces.

On the bottom piece, drill several drainage holes spaced evenly apart to allow for water drainage.

Assemble the frame by attaching the side pieces to the front and back panels using wood glue and nails to secure the joints.

Attach the bottom panel to the assembled frame, ensuring all edges are flush and secured with wood glue and nails.

Once the box is fully assembled, sand the entire planter with 220 grit sandpaper to prepare it for finishing.

Apply wood stain or paint if desired, following the product instructions for best results.

After the stain or paint has dried, apply a coat of polyurethane sealant to protect the wood and extend the life of your planter.

You can easily paint these and mix and match the design of the outside to your liking:

This basic planter design can be varied in several ways to fit different styles and needs. Consider varying the size of the planter to accommodate different types of plants, from small herbs to large bushes. Adding caster wheels to the bottom can make the planter easier to move, which is particularly useful for outdoor spaces. For a more decorative touch, try adding trim pieces along the top edge or incorporating geometric patterns with paint. Personalize your planter to make it uniquely yours, experimenting with different finishes and embellishments.