01Design and cut list
Example: 24×48 in inside, 12 in tall. Long sides, short sides, four corner posts. Write every piece length before cutting.
Buy 10% extra length for mistakes. Sand rough edges that will snag wrists.
Gardening
Build a Raised Planter Box This Weekend
Cut list, square box, soil depth — herbs and salad greens off the ground
3h4 photographed stepsBeginner
Woodworking you finish in a day: simple butt-joint or corner-post planter, real cut list, exterior screws, optional landscape fabric, soil mix that drains. No fancy joinery — square, sturdy, and deep enough for roots. The same skills scale to garden beds and benches later.
What you'll learn
- Write a cut list before you cut
- Square the box — measure diagonals
- Elevation and drainage beat soggy roots
- Safe wood choices for food gardens
Inside this course
- Plan and cutMeasure twice.
- Assemble and fillBox to harvest.
Full step-by-step lessons with photos unlock with a subscription.
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First steps from Plan and cut
See how every step looks — photo, checklist, and pro tips included.
02Cut and dry-fit
Cut all pieces. Dry-fit corners on a flat driveway. Diagonals should match within ~1/8 in when squared.
Mark screw lines so you don't split ends — predrill near board ends.
Pro tip. A speed square is worth more than fancy wood for beginners.
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