Planter Box with Trellis

diy planter box with trellis
Difficulty
Beginner Projects
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Build your own planter box with trellis.  Free step by step plans with diagrams, shopping list and cut list.

Photo from MMHMAKEOVER

This project was a request from a Facebook user. I'm not completely sure how to build a cube, so I connected it for the most part using L-brackets/corner brackets, but feel free to change it as you see fit! I categorized it for outdoors, but you could line it or put a potted plant in it instead and use it indoors, too!

Steps may vary per automated plan system.

Dimensions
diy planter box with trellis
28" x 28" x 63"

Preparation

Shopping List

168" of 1x2 (2@8' total OR 1@8'/1@6' OR 1@14')

706" of 1x4 (59' total)

172 1/2" of 4x4 (14' 6" total OR 2@8')

21" x 37 1/2" trellis (or furring strips or yardsticks)

14-20 L-brackets

1 1/4" Nails (optional)

8-12 4" production screws (optional)

Common Materials
Cut List

8 - 1x2 @ 21" (Box Wall Trim)

1 - 1x4 @ 28" (Box Trim, Front)

3 - 1x4 @ 21" (Box Trim, Sides & Back)

6 - 1x4 @ 22 1/2" (Box Bottom) 

24 - 1x4 @ 20" (Box Walls) 

2 - 4x4 @ 24" (Front Posts) 

2 - 4x4 @ 62 1/4" (Back Posts)

21" x 37 1/2" piece trellis (or yardsticks or furring strips)

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Safety Glasses
Drill
Level
General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1) Build front wall of box. Line 6 1x4@20" side by side. Line up 1 1x2@21" trim piece perpendicular to the wall boards ensuring the edge of the wall boards are lined up with the trim piece. Attach each board with 1 1/4" nail or screw and glue. If you don't want to see the fasteners from the front/outside of the box, attach them from the wall boards into the trim piece.

Step 2

Step 2) Attach 1 1x2@21" trim piece to the bottom of the wall, but center this piece, 3/4" is center on the trim piece. Attach each wall board with 1 1/4" nail or screw and glue. If you don't want to see the fasteners from the front/outside of the box, attach them from the wall boards into the trim piece.

Step 3

Step 3) Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to make 3 more box walls, for a total of 4 walls.

Step 4

Step 4) Here's where I have to cheat a little. Attach L-brackets on the edge of each wall using 1 1/4" screws and glue, positioning each about 3" from each end, ensuring that they are attached in the correct direction to allow the other wall to be screwed in to the L-bracket. Repeat the L-bracket attachment on the back box wall, too, so that two of the four walls have L-brackets attached to them. {Continued...}

Step 5

Step 6

Step 5) Attach the bottom box boards. Using 1 1/4" screws and glue, attach each 1x4@22-1/2" board, ensuring that the board fits snugly between the two side walls. Repeat for all six bottom box boards. There should be no gaps.

Step 7

Step 6) Attach all box trim from the top of the trim piece into the box wall assembly, using 1 1/4" screws and glue and ensuring that the inside edge is flush with the box walls. Make sure you attach each trim piece accordingly (longest piece on front box wall, shortest piece on back and two like pieces on sides).

Step 8

Step 7) Attach front posts to trim piece using 1 1/4" screws and glue. Reinforce the bottom of the post by attaching L-brackets against the post and box bottom/bottom of wall.

Step 9

Step 8) Attach back (tall) posts to trim piece at the bottom of the post and box bottom AND on the underside of the trim and post by attaching L-brackets. You may want to reinforce the outer back box wall with additional L-brackets, too.

Step 10

Step 9) Attach top trim to back (tall) post using 1 1/4" screws and glue.

Step 11

Step 10) Attach trellis to the back of the posts using screws or nails and glue (or maybe even staple gun). You could also create your own trellis using furring strips or yardsticks.

Step 12

Step 11) Reinforce any loose or weak spots inside the box with additional L-brackets and screws. You may wish to use 4" production screws to reinforce instead. You may also wish to drill a drain hole in the bottom of your box. Finish as desired; use caution with finish if planting edible vegetation!

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Comments

loniwolfe

Wed, 05/18/2011 - 16:34

This is so cute! I totally see a few of these in my future! Thanks!
(side note, if you want to build this without the brackets, take a look at the outdoor storage bench)
Great job! and Thank you again for such a cute idea!

Kellyleia (not verified)

Mon, 09/10/2012 - 09:08

My husband and I just did this as our first project (Brag post coming soon, finishing work still needs to be done). A few bumps along the way, but holy crap this thing is huge. You just don't realize how big 28 inches is until you actually put things together.

In reply to by Kellyleia (not verified)

biz_kid1

Mon, 09/10/2012 - 09:54

Yes, it is! If you look at the top, another user already made it, but she has a picture with her hubby and you can see how big it is! But perfect for vine-y plants!!! Do you have a picture of yours? I'd love to see it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!