How to Build My Own Metal Planter Box
- 1). Brush loose paint and rust off of the metal using a wire brush. Be sure to wear protective goggles, a dust mask and heavy work gloves to prevent cuts and inhalation of rust and paint particles, which may contain lead.
- 2). Determine the size you wish your planter to be, then measure, mark and cut out the plywood panels you will need using a circular saw. Make your bottom panel 1 inch smaller than needed, then cut it in half. Ensure your measurements will be large enough to surround the planter pot that will fit inside the box.
- 3). Nail the panels together, using 1 1/2-inch nails and a hammer, to create four sides without a bottom. Take the two pieces that will make up your bottom and nail them onto the four-sided box, leaving a 1-inch gap in the middle for drainage. You may also use L-brackets and 1/2-inch screws to attach the panels together.
- 4). Wrap your metal sheeting around the sides of the box, flush with the bottom and 6 inches above the top. Tap it with a rubber mallet so that it lays flush to the wooden side panels.
- 5). Tack the metal to the wood panels along the bottom, using steel tacks.
- 6). Snip a vertical slit down each corner of the metal where it sticks above the planter box to create four flaps, and fold them to the inside of the box. Flatten the metal using the rubber mallet so the metal lays smooth to the inside of the box. This will create a lip along the top of your planter. Secure the metal using 1/2-inch screws or nails. Tap all rough edges down to prevent injury.
- 7). Spray the inside of the box and metal with an exterior polyurethane sealer. This will prevent additional rust and preserve your wood.
- 8). Place your planter pot inside the box, fill the pot with soil and add your plants.
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