How to Build an Octagon Plant Stand

Trace an octagon shape onto one side of the lumber sheet, which will be the top of the plant stand. An octagon has eight equal sides; for the sake of example, an octagon with sides measuring 8 inches each will be used, but alter the dimensions to suit your specific needs. Cut out the octagon, then cut the 2-by-2 lumber into four lengths of 34 inches for the legs.

Set the router to cut 2 inches deep and wide. Choose which side of the octagon you want to be the top then place this side face down and route the underside of the octagon, cutting in a 2-inch wide and deep ledge around all sides of the octagon. If you want to add decorative routing work to the plant stand top, do so now.

Cut a 2-inch-wide and 1-inch-deep housing into the end of each leg, using the jigsaw. This can be done in two cuts: one cut vertically down the top of the leg, 2 inches long, and one cut horizontally 1-inch deep to meet up with the end of the vertical cut.

Place the octagon, top side down, on the work surface. Choose four opposing sides of the ledge cut into the underside of the octagon, and fit a leg over the center of each. The housings in the ends of the legs should mate with the side of the ledge and sit flush against the underside. There will be a 1-inch lip between the outer edge of the octagon and the legs.

Glue and clamp the legs in place and let dry. Drill two countersunk pilot holes through the side of each leg where it joins the underside of the plant-stand top. Screw in place with the wood screws. Fill the screw holes with putty, or you can wait and add screw caps later.

Turn the plant stand upright on its legs. Check the balance of the legs. If the stand feels unbalanced, sand or slice off some of the leg ends until it is steady.

Sand the entire plant stand, then varnish or paint as desired. If you are using screw caps, pop them into the screw holes after the varnish or paint is dry; decorative brass screw caps are an attractive addition to an octagon plant stand.