Published on May 11, 2020Last updated October 6, 2021 ♛ By Melissa J. Will
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There are so many wonderful items you can make for your garden using scrap lumber and basic tools. Beginner projects include birdhouses, flower containers, trellis, and benches.
If you prefer not to use power tools, see what you can make without power tools here.
Getting Comfortable with Power Tools
You’ve got this.
I’ve met a lot of people who would love to try building small garden projects with wood but hesitate because they have never learned how to operate power tools.
If this is you, read How to Get Comfortable with Power Toolsfirst. From there, some lessons from a pro are highly recommended. Home improvement stores often offer these classes. This will give you the confidence you need.
As I learned to use my big saw (sliding dual-bevel compound miter saw), I not only gained the skills and confidence to safely operate the saw and troubleshoot problems, but I also realized that most people you see using power tools are reckless. And that’s nuts. Using a tool safely and properly is not only easier but more efficient. And calming.
I suggest deciding which projects you want to make first, see which tools are required, and go from there. Learn what you need to know on an as-needed basis.
If you don’t have scrap wood on hand—check with neighbors and local Facebook listings. It’s amazing how much lumber is sitting in storage just waiting to be used!
Tools: Start With the Basics
While it’s nice to have a workshop with all the basic tools, often you can get by with just a few basics to start.
If you’re using new lumber for projects and don’t have a power saw, see if you can get all of the cuts done at the home improvement store where you buy it. I used to do this until I bought my miter saw.
From there, you’ll probably want adrill (for drilling holes and driving screws)anda palm sander.
If you fall in love with building from wood, you can always add more tools to the wish list.
Yard sales and thrift shops are a good place to find deals.
DIY Wood Garden Projects
Raised Garden Beds
- Free plans for Raised Garden Beds| Empress of Dirt
- Protective Screens to Keep Pests Out of Garden Beds| Empress of Dirt
- Industrial-style Raised Garden Bed| Our Fairfield Home & Garden
Repurpose with a Purpose
- 12+ Ideas for using Doors and Windows in the Garden| Empress of Dirt
- Make a Custom Screen Door for Patios and Porches| Empress of Dirt
- Make a Mini Greenhouse from Old Windows| Empress of Dirt
- Build a Lean-to Greenhouse | Empress of Dirt
Vertical Interest
- | Empress of Dirt
- DIY Outdoor Plant Shelf| Empress of Dirt
- | Empress of Dirt
- How to Make a Wood Tomato Cage| Empress of Dirt
- How to Make a Wood Obelisk| Empress of Dirt
- Create a Staircase Plant Stand| Empress of Dirt
- How to Build a Decorative Garden Ladder | Empress of Dirt
Crafty & Whimsical
- 25+ Creative Ways to Upcycle Xmas Trees| Empress of Dirt
- DIY Garden Sign Tutorial| Empress of Dirt
- DIY Optical Illusion Garden Mirror| Empress of Dirt
Contain Yourself
Creative and useful wood projects you can make for your garden including planters, trugs, arbors, raised beds, screen door, birdhouses, benches, tables, and more!
- How to Make a Wood Garden Trug| Empress of Dirt
- Horseshoe-Handled Herb Box| Our Fairfield Home & Garden
- DIY Planter Box or Crate| Flower Patch Farmhouse
- DIY Rustic Trugs & Planters| Lovely Greens
- How to Make a Wheeled Planter| Lovely Greens
Bug Houses
- Make a Wren Nesting Box| Empress of Dirt
- DIY Nesting Box Plans| Empress of Dirt
- Make a Privacy Screen with Built-in Bug Hotel| Empress of Dirt
- Make a Tree Branch Crib| Empress of Dirt
Easy Furniture
- Build a DIY Workbench| Empress of Dirt
- How to Build a Victorian Garden Bench| Flower Patch Farmhouse
- DIY Garden Tool Shed| Empress of Dirt
This should give you a good start!
Resources
Ebook
25 Garden Art Projects & Ideas
by Melissa J. Will
Grab the top garden art DIY projects and tips from Empress of Dirt
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~Melissa the Empress of Dirt ♛
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