How to Make a Patio Planter

Place the two pieces of 1-by-12-by-12 inch lumber on a table. Measure and mark the center point along one edge of both pieces. Place the framing square on the mark, and draw a perpendicular line up the center of the lumber.

Choose an edge, measure and mark 2 inches out in both directions from the center point. Next, place the framing square on one of the 2-inch marks and the top corner of the same side of the lumber and draw a line. Repeat this for the other side. Cut the pattern out with the skill saw. This will require securing the lumber to the table with the line hanging over the edge. Secure it with finish nails, as they will leave small holes that can be filled with putty.

Repeat this for the other 1-by-12-by-12 inch lumber. These are the ends of the patio planter. You will have two end pieces that measure approximately 4 inches on the bottom and roughly 8 1/2 inches up each angled side.

Place the bottom edge of one of the ends on the table saw next to the blade. Turn the tilt handle until the blade matches the angle on the end piece. Set the fence at 10 inches and rip one of the 1-by-12-by-96 inch lumbers. Set the fence on 4 inches, turn the board around (not over) and rip the other edge to this angle. The goal is to match the edges of the 96-inch bottom piece with the ends.

Countersink three holes on the 4-inch bottom of the end pieces with one in the center. Apply glue to the 4-inch edge of the 4-by-96-inch bottom piece. Secure the ends to the bottom piece with the drywall screws. Clean up excess glue with a damp cloth. Lay the assembly on one of its sides.

Place one of the two remaining 1-by-12-by-96 inch lumber pieces on the assembly, and mark it where it meets the ends and the bottom piece. This piece will hang down from the bottom of the patio planter and will act as legs. Once it is marked, remove it. Drill countersink holes according to your marks apply glue to the edges of the two ends and the bottom. Place the 1-by-12-by-96 inch lumber back on the planter and secure it with the drywall screws. Clean up excess glue with a damp cloth. Repeat this on the other side of the planter.

Apply glue in the screw holes and place the wood buttons in each. If needed, tap them lightly with a hammer. Clean up excess glue with a damp cloth.