Easy Fence Picket Planter Box: A Budget-Friendly DIY Woodworking Project

How to Build a Simple Fence Picket Planter Box (Beginner-Friendly DIY Guide)

If you're looking for a quick, inexpensive, and high‑impact woodworking project, this easy fence picket planter box is a perfect choice. Made from nearly three full pickets and a few basic tools, it’s ideal for small outdoor spaces like apartment stoops, porches, and patios. Whether you want to sell handmade planters for profit, create thoughtful gifts, or add charm to your own home, this project delivers big results with a small footprint.

Why This Project Works

• Low cost: Uses inexpensive fence pickets.

• Beginner‑friendly: Straight cuts, simple assembly, minimal hardware.

• Profitable: Great for selling at craft fairs or online.

• Gift‑ready: Thoughtful, handmade, and customizable.

• Space‑saving: Designed for small outdoor areas.

Materials & Tools

• 3 fence pickets (pine or cedar)

• Miter saw

• Table saw

• Brad nailer with ¾" brad nails

• Wood glue (Titebond III used in this project)

• Watco Danish Oil (Dark Walnut)

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Sanding block or sander

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Cut the Bottom Panel

Start by cutting the bottom plank to 22 inches long using the miter saw.

2. Cut the Side Panels

Cut four pieces at 6 inches each. These will form the short side panels of the planter box.

3. Create the Furring Strips

Cut an 8‑inch piece from a picket, then rip it into furring strips on the table saw. These strips will reinforce the inside corners of the planter.

4. Prepare the Side Panels

Tape the four 6‑inch pieces together. Using a furring strip as a guide, mark the angle for the miters. The miter saw is set to 8°, which creates the tapered shape for the planter sides. Cut both sides of the taped bundle, flip it, and cut the opposite edge.

5. Assemble the Side Panels

Attach the furring strips to the inside edges using wood glue and ¾" brad nails. This forms the two short end panels of the planter.

6. Bevel the Bottom Panel

Using the table saw, bevel both long edges of the bottom board to 8° so it fits snugly between the angled side panels.

7. Cut the Long Side Slats

Cut four boards at 24 inches each. These will form the long sides of the planter box.

8. Add Bevels to the Slats

• The bottom slat on each long side gets an 8° bevel on the bottom edge.

• The top slat gets an 8° bevel on the top edge.

• The two slats meet flush in the middle with no bevel needed there.

9. Final Assembly

With all pieces cut and beveled, assemble the planter:

• Attach the short side panels to the bottom.

• Add the long slats, aligning the bevels for a clean fit.

• Secure everything with glue and brad nails.

10. Apply Finish

To bring out the wood grain and protect the planter, apply Watco Danish Oil in Dark Walnut. This adds warmth and depth to the pine while keeping the finish simple and natural.

Final Thoughts

This fence picket planter is a fast, affordable, and rewarding woodworking project. With just a few pickets and basic tools, you can create a beautiful piece perfect for gifting, selling, or decorating your own outdoor space. We hope our aunt enjoys hers on her apartment stoop — and you can easily customize yours to suit any style or season.