How to Build a Long and Shallow Compost Bin

As organic gardening and zero-waste policy trends increase in popularity, the humble compost bin has become an unlikely status symbol. The cost of purchasing chic designer models can be staggering. Yet much like the nutrient-rich substance itself, compost bins remain largely a homegrown effort. Plans for build-it-yourself compost bins range from highly intricate to almost simplistic. This tilth worm compost bin remains a classic: Its long and shallow design allows for easy access, and is not only easy to construct, but it'll provide years of sturdy and reliable use.

Sheet of untreated 1/2-inch plywood, 4 by 8 feet
2-by-4 lumber, 12 feet
2-by-4 lumber, 16 feet
Tape measure
Handsaw (see Tips)
Wood glue
Half-pound 16d size galvanized nails
2 pounds 6d size galvanized nails
Hammer
Drill with a ½-inch bit
2 galvanized door hinges (3-inch, with screws)
Screwdriver
Basic screen door handle or wooden drawer-pull knob

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the plywood into six boards of the following sizes: The lid, 25 by 42 inches; the base, 23 by 42; two lengthwise sides, 16 by 42 inches each, and two end sides, 16 by 24 inches each.
- 2
  Build the frame for the base by cutting the 12-foot 2 -by-4 into five planks: two at 39-inches, two at 23 inches, and the last one 20 inches long. Stand them on their edge sides. Assemble and then glue the frame so it is flush at four sides of baseboard with the 20-inch piece serving as a center brace. Nail together with two 16d nails at each joint. Reinforce with a nail every 3 inches or so. Drill a dozen 1/2-inch-wide holes into the plywood board to allow drainage.
- 3
  Construct the frame of the lid by cutting the 16-foot-long 2-by-4 into two 51-inch lengths and two 27-inch lengths. Assemble frame with 2-by-4 pieces resting on their wide side. Cut lap joints at the meeting corners. Center the lid board onto frame, best side up. Glue and secure all with 6d nails.
- 4
  Cut four 1-foot-long blocks with remaining wood from 2-by-4 lumber. Opposite the fame side of the base, build a box up from the baseboard using the sideboards. Stand the 1-foot 2-by-4 blocks to reinforce each corner. Glue into place and stagger 6d nails every 3 inches at all points where the plywood and 2-by-4s meet. The base frame provides elevation so air may circulate properly from drainage holes.
- 5
  Screw hinges so corresponding rear side of box and lid are joined, and can swing open or closed freely. Attach handle or drawer-pull knob to front center topside of lid for ease in daily handling.

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