Finding your way to someone’s house shouldn’t feel like navigating a maze, right? Yet, there I was, driving around the block a few extra times just to spot their house number. Sound familiar? Well, that’s why we’re taking matters into our own hands with a little DIY project.
It’s a combination of a house number and a planter box, so not only will it show your address, but it will also add a touch of greenery to your entryway. I’ve had my fair share of struggles finding the perfect spot for my house number. But with this nifty project, it’s like killing two birds with one stone – or in this case, planting two seeds with one pot.
Let’s dive into it.
Cut List
Piece | Qty | Dimensions (Inch) | Thickness |
Back | 1 | 24 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Side | 2 | 6-3/4 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Front | 1 | 7 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Bottom | 1 | 6 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Materials
Item | Qty | Specification |
Wood glue | 1 | |
Wood stain | 1 | |
Wood outdoor paint | 1 | |
Wood filler | 1 | |
Sandpaper | 3 | 80, 150, 220 grit |
Finish nails | 1 | 1-¼” 16 Gauge Finish Nail |
Tools
- Miter saw or Circular saw
- Clamps
- Sander
- Nail Gun
- Speed square
Process
Step 1:
Cut out all the necessary parts for the planter box. Ensure that the length of the back matches the size required for displaying the house numbers.
Step 2:
Attach the bottom board to the back board using wood glue and a nail gun.
Step 3:
Repeat the previous step to secure the two side boards to the back and bottom, and then add the front piece of the box to complete the assembly.
Step 4:
Fill in any nailing points with wood filler to create a smooth surface.
Step 5:
Use a sander to sand all sides of the box for a refined finish.
Step 6:
Paint or stain the box according to your preference.
Optional: Add drainage
You know, even though the plan doesn’t mention it, I decided to take a proactive step and drill a hole in the middle of the bottom for drainage. I think it’s a good idea to prevent root rot. If the soil gets too waterlogged, it can cause the roots to rot, and nobody wants that for their plants.
Additionally, adding drainage can also help prevent wood rot by ensuring that excess moisture doesn’t hang around for too long.
Pro Tip: Apply Painter’s Caulking Before You Paint
Protecting the end grain of wood is key. The end grain is like a sponge when it comes to soaking up moisture, which can lead to all sorts of problems down the line.
Just to be extra cautious, I applied painter’s caulking to all the end grain to seal off those corners inside and out. I did this before I broke out the paintbrush, just to add a little extra protection.
More Beginner-Friendly Projects:
Final Thoughts
Now, your DIY house number planter box is ready to take its place by the front door. It’s pretty easy to make, and I’m pretty happy with how it turned out.
It’s a practical project that could also be a statement piece that adds a splash of personality to our homes. And hey, if we manage to keep the plant alive, that will be a bonus!
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this one.
Rich is a second-generation woodworker, having grown up in his dad’s workshop, “making sawdust.” Fifty years later, he’s still studying and working on improving his own woodworking skills, while also helping new woodworkers “catch the bug” for the smell of fresh sawdust. While Rich has done some custom woodworking projects, his greatest thrill is helping the next generation of woodworkers along, regardless of their age. His background as an engineer and a writer just adds to his ability to teach his true passion, woodworking.
