DIY Network

Window Box Planter: Making Brackets and Applying the Finish From "Woodworking" episode DIW-202

After the box planter is assembled, brackets to support the weight of the planter, dirt and plants is cut and secured to the homes exterior. DIY Woodworking host Bruce Johnson uses wood 2" thick and borrows a design already on his front porch. The brackets can be cut in any design desired, but Johnson uses the cardboard template to cut the notches necessary for the brackets to fit flush with the exterior surface.

The color of stain applied to the window-box planter and brackets (right) was chosen to match the existing house trim.

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Materials:

wood (large enough to create desired size of brackets)
cardboard template of bracket design
handsaw
belt, hand or stationary sander
drill
stain or paint
natural-bristle paintbrush
rags

Note: Download the flower-box plans, right.

These holes should be about 1/2" deep but shouldn't go completely through to back (the holes can be disguised with wooden "buttons" later).

PDF Download the flower-box plans.

1. Begin by tracing around cardboard template (figure A) onto wood (Johnson has already determined that the wood used for brackets should be 15-1/5" high x 9-3/4" wide).

2. Use handsaw to cut bracket curve (figure B) and notches for siding profile.

3. Remove any marks with sander (figure C).

4. Finally, countersink holes on each bracket's edge for screws (to be added during installation).

5. Repeat process to complete two additional brackets.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Applying the Finish

Once the planter is completed, a finish can be chosen to protect the wood and add color (if desired). Plain wood can turn gray, dry out and rot without protection, so stain or paint is vital to this project's longevity.

• Although paint initially provides good protection and good coverage, it can later peel--it's an option with a short life.

• Clear varnish looks good on smooth wood, but on Johnson's choice of wood--rough cedar--too many flaws are visible.

• Exterior stain is a good choice, offering protection while allowing the wood grain to show. Stain should be stirred well before application (to mix pigments), then applied with a soft, natural-bristle brush. Excess can be removed with a rag.

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