Home Garden

How to Hollow Out a Stump

Tree stumps in your garden or landscaping provide you with a world of earthy possibilities. By hollowing out your tree stump, you can create a bird bath, planter, fountain or eye-catching piece of scenery in your garden. With the help of a couple commonly used tools, you can turn your old stump into a new creation.

Things You'll Need

  • Protective eyewear
  • Gloves
  • Router or drill
  • Chisel
  • Hammer
  • Sandpaper
Show More

Instructions

  1. Hollowing out a Stump

    • 1

      Soften the wood of the stump. Wait for a day after a rainstorm when the wood will be softer and more pliable after absorbing water. This is not necessary, but will make the job easier.

    • 2

      Drill holes across the section of the stump you wish to make hollow. Space the holes a few inches apart throughout the entire section.

    • 3

      Hollow out the stump with your hammer and chisel. Chip away the wood beginning at the edge of one of the holes. Keep your chisel at a 45-degree angle. Remove the wood and place it in a compost pile, recycle pile or use it as mulch.

    • 4

      Smooth the hollowed area. Clean up the hollow by chiseling away the jagged sections of wood. Smooth the edges and bottom of the hollow with course-grain sandpaper.

    • 5

      Wipe away any debris or dust from your work.