🪑🌼 They Want $1800... I Built It For $26

Only with 5 common construction boards!

Author

Matthew Peech
February 25, 2024

Hey Makers!

Matthew here, and I'm thrilled to share a game-changing DIY project that has the potential to not only transform your outdoor spaces but also open up a lucrative avenue for your woodworking or DIY business. I've taken a challenge against the exorbitant prices of retail furniture and turned it into an opportunity for all of us.

“Measure Twice Cut Once.”

- John Florio

👀 $26 is all it takes.

Yes, you read that correctly. With just $26 and basic tools, I've crafted a stunning 5-piece planter/bench set that rivals those you'd find in high-end stores for $1800. This isn't just about saving money; it's about taking control, unleashing your creativity, and making a statement with every piece you create.

👉 Key Features

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Create high-quality, durable outdoor furniture for a fraction of store-bought prices.

  • Flexibility: Customize the project to perfectly match your space and needs, creating exactly the number of pieces you desire.

  • Modularity: Benefit from planters designed for easy disassembly, allowing for straightforward storage or reconfiguration as needed.

  • Seasonal Appeal: Designed to enhance any outdoor area, perfect for year-round enjoyment or seasonal highlights.

 🪓 What You’ll Need

Materials:

  • 4- 2x6x8 Boards

  • 1- 2x8x10 Board

  • Screws

  • Wood Stain (Optional)

  • Exterior Grade Finish

Tools:

  • Circular Saw

  • Drill and Drill Bits

  • Miter Saw

  • Sander or Sandpaper

  • Measuring Tape

  • Carpenter's Square

  • Clamps

  • Wood Glue

  • Safety Gear

 🛠️ Construction Steps

  1. Preparing Your Materials:

    Begin by acquiring 4 pieces of 2x6x8 and 1 piece of 2x8x10 lumber.

    Measure and mark your cutting lines according to the desired dimensions of your planters and benches. For a standard size, consider planters that are 18 inches square and benches of a length that comfortably spans between two planters.

  1. Cutting Lumber to Size:

    Use a circular saw for straight cuts and a miter saw for any angled cuts.

    For planters, cut the 2x6s into four 18-inch pieces for each side of the planter box.

    For benches, cut the 2x6s into lengths that match the distance you want to span between two planters.

  1. Assembling the Planters:

    Lay out the sides to form a square box and join them using screws. Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the wood.

    Add a bottom to the planter by cutting additional 2x6 pieces to fit inside the box and drilling drainage holes.

  1. Constructing the Bench Frames:

    Build the frame for your bench using the 2x6s cut for this purpose, creating a simple rectangular frame.

    Secure the frame with screws, ensuring it is sturdy and even.

  1. Adding Bench Seats:

    Cut additional 2x6s for the seating slats.

    Attach these slats to the top of the bench frame, spacing them evenly for aesthetic appeal and functionality.

  1. Finishing Touches:

    Sand all the pieces to smooth out rough edges and surfaces. This step is crucial for aesthetics and safety.

    Apply a protective finish or stain if desired, to enhance durability and weather resistance.

  1. Integration and Installation:

    Determine the placement of your benches between the planters. If you wish to attach the benches to the planters, ensure you leave appropriate notches or secure them with brackets.

    Place the planters and benches in your desired location, filling the planters with soil and plants to complete the project.

📐 Etsy Plans for an In-depth Breakdown

For those who prefer detailed guidance, I've crafted comprehensive plans available on my Etsy shop. These include exploded views, cutting layouts, and step-by-step instructions tailored to this project. Get 10% OFF with “NEWS10”

Low cost, high profit plans.

🏔 What's Your Excuse?

In the spirit of creativity and overcoming challenges, I want to shine a spotlight on someone truly remarkable in our community. Meet Paul – a woodworker who embodies the essence of determination and skill, proving that with passion and adaptability, there are no limits to what we can achieve.

Paul isn't your typical craftsman. Despite being 100% blind, he navigates the woodworking world with finesse and courage, crafting beautiful pieces for friends, family, and customers. His journey is not just inspiring; it's a testament to the human spirit's resilience.

During a recent conversation, Paul shared his experiences and the innovative ways he overcomes the hurdles of woodworking without sight. From using a bandsaw to mastering a router, his journey is filled with learning and adaptation. He mentioned the thrill—and yes, the fear—of trying out new tools. Yet, it's this very bravery that propels him forward.

Using a tape measure that clicks at every 1/16 of an inch, allows him to measure with precision. His approach to woodworking is a symphony of touch, sound, and an intimate knowledge of his tools and materials.

Paul’s ability to envision my video tutorials and translate them into tangible projects is nothing short of incredible. It serves as a powerful reminder that woodworking is an art accessible to all, regardless of the hurdles one might face.

To Paul: Your courage, ingenuity, and passion are a beacon of inspiration not just to me, but to our entire community. You exemplify the true spirit of woodworking—creativity knows no bounds, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth and innovation.

To everyone else: Let Paul's story remind us that with the right mindset, tools, and a bit of creativity, we can overcome any obstacle. Let's continue to support, learn from, and inspire each other in every cut, carve, and creation.

Thank you, Paul, for reminding us of the power of perseverance and the endless possibilities that lie within our craft.

👕 New Merch is Out!

I love this design! It's a simple statement that means so much more than just words. Yes, we are guilty of saying this. . . all the time. . . or you will be soon. But it stands for what the channel is about. . . believing in yourself and letting others know that you do! Telling the world that you're not afraid to make or do anything. This will be the new official shirt of the channel. . . our anthem. You can find it here.

💌 Build Beyond Boundaries

Paul's story is a powerful reminder that woodworking is more than just a hobby; it's a journey of overcoming, learning, and transcending limits. It encourages us to look beyond the conventional, to innovate, and to embrace the challenges that come our way.

Let his story inspire you to tackle that project you've been putting off, to learn that new technique, and to share your own unique creations with the world. Together, we can build a community that thrives on encouragement, innovation, and the shared joy of creation.

Keep pushing the boundaries,
Matthew

P.S. Inspired to start your next woodworking project? Get your next plan and transform your vision into reality. Let's build something amazing together.