Creating a wooden planter bench for a garden patio combines functionality and beauty, giving you a perfect spot to relax while incorporating plants into your outdoor space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building your own:
Materials Needed:
- Wooden boards (cedar or redwood are ideal for outdoor furniture)
- Wood screws or decking screws
- Wood glue (for added strength)
- Planter liner (optional, but helps keep the soil from touching the wood directly)
- Drill with wood drill bits
- Saw (circular saw or miter saw)
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Sandpaper or a sander
- Exterior wood finish or stain
- L-brackets (optional, for extra support)
Dimensions for the Bench and Planter Box:
- Bench seat: 16-18 inches in height and 18-24 inches in depth.
- Planter box: Depth of 8-12 inches, width depending on the size you want, but typically 24-36 inches long.
- Legs: About 16 inches high for comfortable seating.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Design and Measurements
Start by deciding on the dimensions of your planter bench. Typically, the bench seat will be around 18 inches in height. The planter box can be incorporated along the back or sides of the bench. If you’re adding a backrest, you can attach a tall planter box to the back of the bench for extra plant space.
- Measure the space where you plan to place the bench, ensuring you have enough room for the planter.
- Draw a rough sketch of the design, including the seat, planter box, and legs.
2. Cut the Wood
Using a saw, cut your wooden boards according to your measurements:
- For the seat: Cut a piece that is 18-24 inches deep and the length of the bench.
- For the legs: Cut four pieces at approximately 16 inches high.
- For the planter box: Cut the sides, front, back, and bottom pieces. The front and back should be as long as your seat, and the sides can be a few inches shorter, depending on the width of the bench.
3. Assemble the Planter Box
- Start by attaching the front, back, and side pieces of the planter box together using wood screws and wood glue for added strength.
- Make sure the corners are square using a square tool, then secure the pieces with screws.
- If desired, use an L-bracket at the corners for additional reinforcement.
4. Assemble the Bench Frame
- Start by attaching the four legs to the underside of the seat. You can either screw them directly into the seat using wood screws or attach them with brackets for more stability.
- Attach the planter box to the back of the frame, ensuring it’s centered and securely fastened.
- If you’re adding a backrest, cut the back pieces of the frame and attach them to the top of the planter box. The backrest should slope slightly for comfort.
5. Finish the Wood
- Sand all surfaces with sandpaper or a sander to ensure a smooth, splinter-free finish.
- Apply an exterior wood finish, stain, or sealer to protect the bench from the elements. This is especially important if the bench will be exposed to rain or sun regularly.
- If you’re using a planter liner, cut it to fit the inside of the planter box. This will help prevent the wood from rotting by keeping the soil contained.
6. Install the Planter Liner (Optional)
If you choose to use a liner, place it inside the planter box. You can secure it with small nails or staples to the sides of the planter box.
7. Final Assembly
- Once the finish has dried, set the planter bench in place.
- Fill the planter with soil and your choice of plants, and enjoy your new garden patio addition!
Tips:
- Wood Selection: Opt for weather-resistant wood such as cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine, which are all durable and long-lasting for outdoor furniture.
- Personalization: You can add cushions to the seat for added comfort or paint the bench in a color that complements your patio décor.
- Water Drainage: Ensure that the bottom of the planter box has drainage holes so that excess water can escape. This will help prevent waterlogging and root rot.
This DIY project will not only enhance the aesthetic of your garden patio but also provide a functional seating area with a touch of greenery. If you want to take your woodworking skills further, consider investing in a comprehensive guide like Ted’s Woodworking Course. It offers step-by-step plans for a wide variety of woodworking projects, perfect for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
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