A mother’s day project: Cedar Planter

Planter Design Project Links

See Project on GrabCAD (download model files)

PlanterPlans

Decided to have the 3 year old help me build a planter on the back porch for him and mom. Having a 3 year old “help” is always interesting, but it turned into a great couple of days. Step one was to rough out a concept in 3D because that’s just how I do things.  I wanted something roughly 2’x8′, and would let stock lumber lengths drive the actual dimensions. I also wanted something that required nothing more than a chop saw and drill. In the end, I came up with the following design:

Mother's Day Planter

Mother’s Day Planter

 

I used the design to come up with a material list. From there, Owen and I took off to Lowe’s to get our lumber. Since we’re going to be growing herbs and veggetables, pressure treated products are not a good choice due to the chemicals used during the treating process. Instead, an untreated wood that holds up better to the elements is preferred. In this case, we went with an all cedar construction. So here’s our story in some pictures. After filling up our cart, Owen was enjoying the sunshine on the way back out to the car.

Follow the rest of the story through the pictures below.

Haulin' Lumber

Owen probably singing “Bob the Builder” theme some in his head.

Owen helping get the supplies into the backyard.

Owen helping get the supplies into the backyard.

Owen was my designated screw inserter...

Owen was my designated screw inserter…

Reese even got in on the action.

Reese even got in on the action.

And here's what we ended up with.

And here’s what we ended up with.

And here's Owen showing off his crop to his buddy Jameson.

And here’s Owen showing off his crop to his buddy Jameson.