Looking to add a touch of handcrafted charm to your porch or patio without breaking the bank? Or looking to sell planters as part of a woodworking side hustle?
You’re in luck! In a recent video, woodworker Matthew demonstrates how to build a beautiful and unique scallop top planter using readily available and inexpensive fence pickets.
This isn’t just any planter – its distinctive design and low material cost ($8!) make it a hot seller at craft fairs and online marketplaces for $70 and up! Ready to learn how to replicate this profitable project? Let’s dive into the steps.
Contents
Materials You’ll Need
The beauty of this project lies in its simplicity and affordability. Matthew uses just one key material:
- Fence Pickets: These are the star of the show! Made from low-cost wood, fence pickets provide all the material needed for the entire planter, from the scalloped top to the base trim.
Tools for the Job
To bring this planter to life, you’ll need a few woodworking tools. While Matthew expertly uses power tools for efficiency, you can adapt this project to suit the tools you have on hand. Here are the essentials:
- Circular Saw: For making straight cuts on the fence pickets.
- Miter Saw: Ideal for precise angle cuts, especially for the trim (though a circular saw can also be used with careful measurement).
- Nail Gun: To quickly and securely assemble the planter box. You can also use screws or nails and a hammer if you don’t have a nail gun.
- Measuring Tape: Accuracy is key!
- Pencil: For marking your cut lines.
- Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Always prioritize safety when working with power tools.
Step 1: Cutting the Fence Pickets
The first step is to break down the fence pickets into the components for your planter. You’ll need pieces for the sides, the base, and the scalloped top. Matthew doesn’t provide exact measurements in the video description, so you’ll need to decide on the size of your planter and cut accordingly. Common planter sizes are around 12-16 inches square.
- Sides: Cut four pieces of fence picket to your desired planter height and width. For example, if you want a 12-inch square planter that is also 12 inches tall, you’ll cut four 12-inch long pieces.
- Base: Cut pieces to create a square base that fits snugly inside the side pieces. You might need to cut several pieces and join them together to achieve the desired base size.
Step 2: Assembling the Planter Box
With your side and base pieces cut, it’s time to assemble the main planter box structure.
- Form the Square: Arrange the four side pieces to form a square.
- Attach Sides: Using your nail gun (or screws/nails), join the side pieces together at the corners to create a box. Ensure the corners are square for a professional look.
- Install Base: Slide the base pieces into the bottom of the box, resting on the bottom edges of the side pieces. Secure the base to the sides using your nail gun or screws/nails.
Step 3: Creating the Scalloped Top
This is where the magic happens and the planter gets its unique, high-end look!
- Cut Scallop Pieces: Cut additional fence picket pieces to create the scalloped top. These pieces will be shorter than the side pieces and will be attached around the top edge of the planter. The exact length will depend on the desired scallop size and how much overhang you want.
- Create Scallops: The video doesn’t explicitly show how to create the scallop shape, but you can achieve this with a jigsaw or by carefully shaping the top edge of each piece with a sander or rasp. Alternatively, you can create a simpler scalloped effect by making angled cuts at the top corners of each piece.
- Attach Scallop Pieces: Attach the scalloped pieces around the top edge of the planter box, spacing them evenly to create the scalloped effect. Use your nail gun or screws/nails to secure them.
Step 4: Adding Trim
To give the planter a finished and polished appearance, Matthew adds trim to the base.
- Cut Trim Pieces: Cut thin strips of fence picket to act as trim. These should be long enough to wrap around the base of the planter.
- Attach Trim: Attach the trim pieces around the base of the planter box, mitering the corners for a clean look. Secure the trim using your nail gun or nails.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
The final steps elevate the planter from a simple box to a beautiful and sellable piece.
- Sanding: Thoroughly sand the entire planter to smooth out any rough edges and prepare the wood for finishing.
- Painting or Staining: Choose a paint or stain color that complements your style and protects the wood from the elements. Consider using exterior-grade paint or stain for planters that will be outdoors.
- Sealing (Optional): For added protection, especially if using paint, apply a clear sealant after painting or staining.
From $8 Materials to $70+ Sales
And there you have it! By following these steps, you can transform a few dollars worth of fence pickets into a stylish scallop top planter that’s ready to beautify your home or become a profitable item to sell. The combination of low material cost, unique design, and handcrafted appeal makes this planter a winner. So, gather your tools and fence pickets, and get building! You might be surprised at the beautiful and profitable planters you can create.
