How We Built a Cedar Planter Box Using Fence Pickets (Beginner Friendly DIY!)

If you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and beautiful spring woodworking project, this cedar planter box fits the bill. In this project from Woodsongs by Russell, we walk through how we built a custom planter using inexpensive cedar fence pickets — no fancy tools or advanced skills required. Cedar is naturally rot‑resistant, which makes it a fantastic choice for outdoor planters, and the best part is that this entire build is budget‑friendly and perfect for beginners.

Whether you’re decorating your porch, adding charm to your garden, or creating a thoughtful handmade gift for Mother’s Day, this planter box is a great weekend project that anyone can tackle.

Why We Chose Cedar Fence Pickets

We love using cedar fence pickets because:

• They’re affordable and easy to find at most home improvement stores

• Cedar naturally resists rot and insects, making it ideal for outdoor projects

• The rustic grain and warm color look beautiful without needing much finishing

• They’re lightweight and easy to cut, even for new woodworkers

This project is a great example of how you can turn simple materials into something truly special.

Step‑by‑Step: How We Built the Planter Box

1. Cutting the Pickets

We started by cutting the cedar fence pickets down to size for the sides, bottom, and trim pieces. Since the boards are thin, they’re easy to work with and cut cleanly.

2. Assembling the Box

Next, we assembled the panels and attached them together to form the planter box. This is a very beginner‑friendly build — just straight cuts and simple joinery. If you’re new to woodworking, this is a great confidence‑building project.

3. Adding Trim for a Finished Look

To elevate the design, we added trim pieces around the top edge. This small detail makes the planter look custom and polished.

4. Sanding & Finishing

Cedar already looks beautiful on its own, so we kept the finish simple. A quick sanding brings out the grain, and you can leave it natural or add an outdoor‑safe finish if you prefer.

Perfect for Spring & Outdoor Decor

This planter box is a wonderful addition to porches, patios, and gardens. It also makes a thoughtful handmade gift — especially for spring holidays or Mother’s Day. We love how something so simple can brighten up an outdoor space.

If you’d like to build a cedar planter box using fence pickets, be sure to watch the full video above to follow along step‑by‑step.

Happy woodworking!