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Before You Begin
Step 1: Mark Out and Cut Ends
Step 2: Attach the Base
Step 3: Add the Railings
Step 4: Fix the Slats
Step 5: Add the Spacers
The design of this planter means it can be built to any length. The base sits on the floor without tipping, or rests on a 1 1/2-in. x 3 1/2-in. or 1 1/2-in. x 4-in. railing. Use Western red cedar, which won't deteriorate.
Line with plastic, fill with soil and potted plants then pack with pine bark. Move the box occasionally so the railing underneath can dry out.
Transfer the planter end pattern to 1-in. grid paper. Tape the pattern to the board and clamp to a bench. Cut out the ends using a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade.
Drill pilot holes then apply glue and attach the base to the ends using 6d stainless-steel decking nails.
Use a table saw to cut the railing sides to width, with a 35° bevel along one edge. Attach the railing sides to the base. Glue and secure with decking nails as before.
Cut the side slats to width using a table saw. Drill pilot holes then nail the slats to the ends, working from top to bottom.
Add spacers to the inside of each railing side for extra strength and to fit the box snugly on the railing. To finish, drill four drainage holes in the base and paint the box with stain or sealer.