What a great project! I went all out with it, spending much more time and money than a sandbox probably deserves :) but I wanted something similar to the colors on our house.
Since we have humid summers, and much of the wood wasn't pressure treated, I sanded, primed (2x) and painted (2x) after cutting. I also changed the base to a 12" wide board rather than 8" to make it deeper. . . changing this one aspect doesn't effect any of the other instructions or measurements. Because of the primer and paint and paint supplies, the project cost about $150. But the kids love it and are in it every day we are home!
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Primer and latex paint (Lowe's Valspar Exterior HydroChroma, "Rugged Suede" color)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner