Double Cedar Planter Bench
DIY Cedar Planter Bench – Add instant seating and greenery to your outdoor space with this simple cedar planter bench made from affordable fence pickets. The design combines two sturdy planter boxes with a comfortable slatted bench, creating a functional piece that looks great on patios, gravel gardens, or along a modern exterior wall. walk you through building the entire project step-by-step using basic tools and inexpensive cedar pickets. The planters can be filled with boxwoods, flowers, or seasonal plants to match your landscape style. It’s an easy weekend project that adds seating, structure, and curb appeal to any yard. Perfect for beginners and customizable for different spaces. Features: • Built from cedar fence pickets • Integrated planter boxes on both ends • Simple slatted bench seat • Beginner-friendly construction • Perfect for patios, gravel gardens, or entryways Build one in a weekend and enjoy a beautiful, functional outdoor feature for years to come.
Specifications
| Project type | Planters, Garden Beds, and Greenhouses |
|---|---|
| Room | Outdoor |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 6 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 16 - cedar fence pickets 5-1/2" wide x 72" long (NOT dogeared)
- About 60 - 2-3/4" self tapping general construction screws, star bit
- About 200 - 1-5/8" self tapping exterior screws, star bit
Cut List
Planters
- 8 - 2x4 @ 22-1/2" - legs of planters
- 8 - 2x4 @ 20" - horizontal supports
- 32 - cedar fence pickets @ 24" - ends beveled at 45 degrees, long point measurement
- 4 - 1x3 (or cedar fence pickets ripped in half) @ 24" - ends mitered at 45 degrees, long point measurement
Bench
- 2 - 2x4 @ 48"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 19"
- 4 - cedar fence pickets @ 48"
Planter bases - 4 - fence pickets @ 23"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- circular saw
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Build four frames identical, using the longer screws and 2x4s.
Step 2
To all the frames, attach cedar fence pickets.
Step 3
Attach two frames together with remaining fence pickets to create the planter outsides.
Step 4
Either use ripped cedar fence pickets or 1x3s to trim out the top of the planters.
Step 5
Build the frame for between the planters independently. Attach the frame in between the planters. The frame must be attached to the inner 2x4 frame. If you need to add blocking to get the seat at the preferred placement, add blocking.
Step 6
Attach fence pickets to the tops with the shorter screws.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/double-cedar-planter-bench-free-plans