How to build a portable planter

[EricL]

Difficulty: Beginner

A portable planter allows you to move succulents and flowers to the best locations in the garden, or bring herbs into the kitchen while cooking.

This D.I.Y. planter is quick and easy to assemble even for a beginner in woodworking.  

To source a free pallet for this project, speak with a helpful team member in the Bunnings timber drive-through. It's always best to give the store a quick call before you head in to make sure there are pallets available at your local store.

Sponsored Post

Steps

Step 1

First we are going to take our pallet and cut it into pieces using a saw.

Use a tape measure and pencil to mark out the following lengths: 

• 2 pieces 255mm x 95mm
• 3 pieces 310mm x 95mm
• 1 piece 340mm x 95mm
• 2 pieces 340mm x 45mm
• 2 pieces 145mm x 95mm
• 2 pieces 145mm x 45mm.

Make sure that the pieces are straight and free of nails. Then cut the pieces using a circular saw before sanding each piece to ensure it is smooth.

Step 2

Using mitre and corner clamps, join one 255mm x 95mm piece to one 310mm x 95mm piece. Make sure that the larger piece is on the outside of the smaller one.

Mark drilling guides using a square and pencil. Drill and then screw together. Repeat the process with another two pieces to make a box.

      

Step 3

Draw drilling guides on the timber to make sure that the space between the panels is equal on both sides and then screw in the centre panel.

      

Step 4

Place one 340mm x 45mm length at the outer edge of the tray. Use clamps to keep it in place while marking drilling guides. Screw the panel into place. Repeat this process for the other side and middle sections.

    

Step 5

Position the 145mm x 95mm piece at the centre of the side panel. Fix this piece into place by screwing into the side panel and repeat the process for a second piece on the other side.

Place the 145mm x 45mm timber handles on top of these pieces. Use a clamp to keep them steady while you place markers and screw the handles on.

        

Step 6

Spray paint the planter. Make sure you perform this step outside with plenty of ventilation. Don’t spray too close to avoid puddling.

When the paint is dry, place your herb pots or favourite flowers in your portable planter ready to display.

  

Materials

• 1 pallet

• 1 box of 8g x 30mm timber screws 

• 1 can of spray paint.

Tools

• Circular saw 

• Timber clamps

• Mitre and corner clamps

• Combination square

• Tape measure

• Cordless drill

• Drill bit 2.5mm

• Sander 

• Pencil.

Images