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Wood DIY Projects

Make a Robin Nesting Shelf (Free Plans)

Published on January 24, 2026 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

American robin in mud.

Build a robin nesting box with these free plans. Robins are attracted to this unique design with a sheltered shelf to secure the nest and raise their young. The robin (Turdus migratorius) nesting … [Read more...]

25 Creative Ways to Reuse Christmas Trees

Published on December 29, 2025 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Old christmas tree against a fence used by chickadees to shelter from the snow.

If you want to upcycle or recycle your Christmas tree after the holidays, there are all sorts of crafts and decorations to make from the wood, branches, and twigs for your home and garden. For … [Read more...]

DIY Raised Garden Bed with Privacy Fence

Published on November 2, 2023 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Raised garden bed with built-in privacy wall.

Create a secluded space with this combination raised bed and privacy fence. Using standard lumber sizes, itโ€™s an easy-to-assemble DIY project. You can also see privacy fence ideas here with all … [Read more...]

How to Protect Nesting Boxes With a DIY Predator Block

Published on September 11, 2023 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Wren nesting box with predator block at entry hole.

By adding a simple predator guard to bird nesting boxes you can stop animals like racoons, snakes, squirrels, and other bird species from raiding the nest. For free plants see Free Wren Nesting Box … [Read more...]

Free Nesting Box Building Plans for Wild Birds

Published on January 21, 2023 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Nesting boxes for bluebirds, chickadees, and wrens.

Birdhouses offer safe nesting spots, but each bird species has different needs. Use these plans to build boxes that suit your favorite backyard birds. This shows why decorative birdhouses can be … [Read more...]

How to Build a Lean-to Greenhouse (Step by Step)

Published on October 28, 2022 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Lean-to greenhouse built on the side of a patio wall.

Lean-to greenhouses offer a budget-friendly alternative to stand-alone greenhouses. Built next to an existing structure, you get space to cultivate plants while saving on building costs. For … [Read more...]

DIY Tall Raised Bed for Plant Containers & Bins

Published on August 2, 2021Last updated October 3, 2021 โ™› By Melissa J. Will

Tall raised garden bed with building plans.

Use these free plans to build a tall, raised bed for plant containers. The height makes pots easy to reach, and it fits bins for winter sowing. Add wheels if you want it movable. Other free plans … [Read more...]

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Melissa J. Will - Empress of DirtWelcome!
I’m Melissa J. Will a.k.a. the Empress of Dirt (Ontario, Canada).
Join me as I share creative + frugal home & garden ideas with a dash of humor.
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