For those who miss having their garden landscape projects to keep them busy over vacation time and want to get a bit crafty with wood during winter, here is a fun DIY project that will be front and centre for the holidays. I recommend using an environmentally certified brand like MicroPro Sienna pre-treated wood, as it is safe and non-toxic for pets and small children.
Follow the steps below:
- Before you start, first make sure your wood is completely dried. Then measure out the base that holds your Christmas tree. This either is a round base or an X base, both will have a maximum dimension, use this to create the inside of your box.
- Using 1x6 fence boards, cut the height you require for the outside of your box. Add 1.5" to each length to allow clearance off the floor. To count the number of boards per face, divide the width by 5.5" and then you will know the amount required. So for 20" face you will need 4, as the actual number is 3.6.
- Create a frame using 2x2 wood and cut the vertical pieces to match the height of your fence boards, then use the inside measurement you took from the base and cut the horizontal pieces at this length plus 1" for clearance.
- Screw the horizontal 2x2 pieces to the vertical 2x2 pieces to create a cube frame.
- Now mark the center and attach your first fence board to the center of the frame and work your way left and right of the center to make a symmetrical pattern. Mark any overhang with a pencil and then simply rip it on the table saw.
- For the inside, you'll need to measure the distance between the walls, take this number and cut more fence boards and then nail them in place to create floor that is on top of the lower portion of the frame.
- If you want to get extra fancy, take a 2x4 and cut it to match the size of the opening of your box so that it overhangs the outer edge and lies flush with the inside. Pre-drill and screw it into place to create a top lip.
- You have now completed the perfect Christmas Tree Box Stand - feel free to add an "X" pattern on the front or a "V" to give it a little more detail.
For great outdoor (and indoor) DIY inspiration and project how-to guides, visit handcraftedbychrispalmer.com and follow me on Instagram @handcraftedbychrispalmer.
