Build a couple of small privacy planters with just 2x4's and fence pickets! We included solar lights and address numbers to dress it up. Easily change out the plants each season for a new look. Free plans at ana-white.com
Why I Built this Project
I wanted to add a planter to my entrance to create more curb appeal and I also liked the idea of adding solar lights to help shed more light in the dark months to our front door area.
The address numbers are a nice custom touch!
Why We Love this Small Privacy Planter
- Easy to build privacy planter
- Built using basic tools and materials
- Change out plants for every season
- Fun and festive addition for the holidays
- Modify for different size pots
Build the Full Size Privacy Planter
A few years ago, we made plans for this full size privacy planter! It has been a big hit, and this smaller planter is inspired by it. Get the free plans for the large privacy planter here.
How I Built this Project
Cut 2x4's according to the cut list and assemble using 2.5" screws and build the 2 legs.
Build both legs in mirror as seen here. Measure and cut your cedar fence pickets to close in each side.
Lay the legs flat and add the front and back slats. This part makes it easy to modify for size, measure and cut as desired or follow the cut list!
For the back, cedar fence pickets can vary in width quite a bit. I suggest cutting and laying them out with a slight gap. I ended up pushing them tight and had a space at the top on one of the planters, the second planter came out with the pickets hanging a little over, so I just ripped the pickets to fit at the top.
I added solar barn lights and our house number to dress it up. I love the result!!!
Watch! Build Video for This Project
Free Plans to Build Your Own Small Privacy Planter
Ready to build this yourself? Here's the free plans, enjoy!
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Preparation
- 3 - 2x4x8' (make long cuts first)
- 9 - cedar fence pickets
*Material list is for 1 planter
- 2 - 2x4 @ 22" (front of leg)
- 4 - 2x4 @ 16" (leg horizontal supports)
- 2 - 2x4 @71 1/2" (back of leg)
- 8 - Cedar Fence Pickets @19"
- 8 - Cedar Fence Pickets @ 20"
- 9 - Cedar Fence Pickets @ 18 3/4" cut to fit
Instructions
Step 1
Build two identical as shown in the diagram, using 2-1/2" self tapping screws, two screws per joint.
Step 2
Attach the upper support as shown, noting that they are placed on the outside, different on each side.
Step 3
Attach cedar fence pickets to the outsides of the two frame pieces with 1-1/4" exterior fasteners and exterior wood glue.
NOTE: This plan expects your cedar fence pickets to be 5-1/2" wide. If narrower, evenly space the gaps out.
Step 4
Attach the front cedar fence pickets to the fronts of the frames, keeping outside edges flush.
Step 5
Measure and cut the back pieces. Attach with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.
