How to Build a Window Box Planter (page 2 of 2)
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Step-by-Step Outline:
- 1. Measure Accurately page 1
- 2. Make a Bracket Template page 1
- 3. Select the Wood page 1
- 4. Cut and Trim Side Boards page 1
- 5. Bevel Corners page 1
- 6. Add Slots page 1
- 7. Cut, Add and Secure End Pieces current page
- 8. Measure, Cut and Secure the Bottom Piece current page
- 9. Drill Drainage Holes current page
- 10. Cut and Prepare the Brackets current page
- 11. Apply the Finish current page
- 12. Place and Attach Brackets current page
- 13. Raise Box current page
7. Cut, Add and Secure End Pieces
Cut scrap wood left over from cutting down width, and already 7" high for end pieces. These pieces are cut to 7" long. Apply glue to the slots in one of the longer pieces the front or back. Add end pieces to the slot and tap into place (Image 1). Pull remaining long pieces to the end pieces. Use bar clamps to secure all pieces during drying (Image 2).
8. Measure, Cut and Secure the Bottom Piece
Measure the bottom piece for snug fit. Cut to proper width and length. Apply a bead of glue inside the bottom edges of planter. Align the bottom with bottom edges of front, back and side pieces. Use mallet to tap into place. Use screws to secure bottom piece to edges of side, front and back pieces.
9. Drill Drainage Holes
Drill drainage holes in bottom, spacing about 12 inches apart, beginning about 6 inches from each end.
10. Cut and Prepare the Brackets
After the box planter is assembled, cut brackets to support the weight of the planter, dirt and plants and secure to the home’s exterior. This design uses 2-inch thick wood and borrows a design already on the front porch. The brackets can be cut in any design desired, but this project uses the cardboard template to cut the notches necessary for the brackets to fit flush with the exterior surface.
Trace around cardboard template onto wood after determining the height and width for the brackets (Image 1). Use a handsaw to cut bracket curve and notches for siding profile (Image 2). Remove any marks with a sander (Image 3). Finally, countersink holes on each bracket's edge for screws to be added during installation. Repeat process to complete two additional brackets.
11. Apply 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 some woods — such as the rough cedar we are using
12. Place and Attach Brackets
Position each bracket where needed to provide good support here there’s one at the middle and each end. Use a level to make sure the top of each bracket is correctly aligned. Drill 3-inch screws into countersunk holes to attach bracket to house exterior. Use wooden buttons to hide screws and fill holes
13. Raise Box
Add remaining brackets and place box atop the brackets. Add dirt and plants or potted plants as desired.
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