DIY Network

Window Box Planter: Cutting Boards From "Woodworking" episode DIW-202

After the wood has been carefully measured and selected wood, it needs to be cut into the proper dimensions.

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	The dimensions of each window-box planter varies from house to house -- even window to window.
	PDF Download the flower-box plans.
	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Materials:

1" x 8" lumber (2 pieces)
handsaw and square, table saw or radial-arm saw
belt sander
sanding block

Note: Download the project plans, right.

1. Keep in mind that the wood may have rough edges and uneven ends that should be trimmed before other cuts are made.

2. After determining full width of planter, cut front and back boards to appropriate length (Johnson cuts his to 71-1/2").

3. After cutting ends, trim 1" x 8" piece of lumber to 7" wide (figure A).

4. Next, mark lines with square and use belt sander to bevel corners at a 45-degree angle to reduce splintering (figure B). Remove any additional sharp or rough areas. Repeat beveling for all corners.

5. Smooth with sanding block.

6. Cut a slot at the end of the two boards to adjoin sides and increase strength. Measure width of side boards for slot and mark board 1/2" from end.

7. The slot can be cut with a handsaw and chisel, a router, or a radial-arm saw. If you use a radial-arm saw--as Johnson does--set the blade to cut a 1/4" groove. Repeat cutting until groove is completed (figure C). Use chisel to clean up slot.

8. Cut scrap wood (left over from cutting down width, and already 7" high) for end pieces. Johnson cuts the pieces to 7" long for his box.

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