DIY Mini-Planter Tutorial

I recently gave you a sneak peek at this little Mini-Planter that I made using scrap pieces of wood. Today I’m going to share a quick and easy planter tutorial. This is a great beginner project if you are just exploring woodworking or want to learn, or if you’re really intimidated by power tools and you don’t know where to start. This is just a basic, easy project that anyone can do. Plus, power tools aren’t required for this – they just make the job go faster.

What you’ll need:

4 – 2x4s cut to 7″ long (for the sides)
2 – 2x4s cut to 10″ long (for the bottom)
Wood Glue
Nail gun and finish nails (or a hammer and nails)
Saw (I used my miter saw)
Stain (I used Thompson’s WaterSeal Aerosol exterior wood stain in Traditional Brown)

First, cut your scrap wood down to size. I used a 2×4 since it’s what I had in my garage, but the size can be modified depending on what type of wood you have access to. I used the same basic process as my Scrap Wood + Mason Jar centerpiece, except for the bottom.

First, attach your 4 sides using wood glue and nails.

Then, attach your two bottom pieces side by side, also using wood glue and nails. Your planter will be upside down at this point. Leave a small gap for drainage, or drill holes in the boards. Allow the glue to dry, then flip it over.

Now, my favorite part. I tried out a new product on this planter – Thompson’s WaterSeal aerosol exterior wood stain. I had no idea that wood stain was available in a spray, but this made staining so easy! I just sprayed it on and let it dry. Well, actually my husband did most of this part so I could take pictures. 🙂 This stain also sealed and waterproofed my planter.

After it dried, I put some small pea gravel in the bottom of the planter to allow for better drainage, then poured my soil and planted my pretty flowers.