5 Outdoor Woodworking Projects to Try This Summer
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding way to spend your summer? Why not try a few woodworking projects outdoors while the weather is still warm? Woodworking can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride, and it’s a great way to show off your creativity. In the end, you’ll have a tangible product to show for all your hard work.
In this post, we’ll cover five of the best outdoor woodworking projects you can do this summer. From a simple planter box to a more complex storage bench, these projects will give you the satisfaction of a job well done. Once you get started, you’ll never want to stop.
Building a Planter Box
Planter boxes are a great way to add color to your outdoor area. As a bonus, you will have the satisfaction of making something yourself. To begin your project, start with a wooden frame. Treat the wood ahead of time for outdoor use to prevent rotting and insect infestation. For the slats in the box, select appropriate wood, such as cedar, cypress, or redwood, to hold up to the weather outdoors. To ensure maximum support for the planter box, use galvanized screws or nails. Lining the planter box with landscape fabric will also help keep soil from leaching out over time. Apply a sealer or paint to protect it from the elements, and enjoy your work of art.
Outdoor Dining Table
An outdoor dining table is perfect for entertaining or having meals outside on warm summer days. Start by cutting the basic shape for your table out of nice-looking hardwood, such as teak or mahogany. Construct the frame by attaching crossbeams to support and stabilize the tabletop. Pre-drilling holes and using exterior screws or bolts will ensure its sturdiness.
Outdoor Chair
If you’re looking for an easy but creative project this summer, an outdoor chair is just the thing. Start by making a frame with four posts attached at each corner with glue or screws. Add slats to form a seat across each side of the frame and under the chair. To complete your chair, finish it with a cushion for comfort and style.
Garden Gate
A garden gate will add privacy and charm to your outdoor space this summer. Start by selecting thick hardwood such as oak or mahogany with an outdoor sealant to protect it from moisture and mildew buildup. Attach vertical posts at either side of the gate and build cross beams along them for extra support at each corner. Nail in thin pickets horizontally across the posts, and add curves along the top rail of your fence for design detail. Craft two doors on opposite sides using hinges and secure padlocks if needed to complete your garden gate design.
Outdoor Storage Chest
A storage chest is functional and beautiful when made with quality hardwood treated for outdoor use, such as cedar or redwood. Measure out the size of the chest you want and cut it using exterior-rated screws or nails to join the planks that will serve as its walls. Properly seal your chest and cover it in a heavy-duty tarp when you aren’t using it.
Why not challenge yourself this summer by constructing any one of these five alluring woodworking projects? Nothing can compare to completing something you built yourself with your own two hands. Enjoying the furniture you crafted yourself is one of the special joys of summer. Get started on your new favorite project now.