Got scrap wood? We recently explored How to Get Comfortable with Power Tools and now it’s time for the fun stuff: all the cool stuff you can make for the garden once you’ve become confident using saws, drills, and sanders.
A healthy respect for power tools is smart. But there’s no reason that should hold you back from creating the things you want to make.
Getting Comfortable with Power Tools
You’ve got this.
There are so many of you who have written to me over the years to say, I really want to make birdhouses and arbors and quirky garden art signs (and zillions of other things) but I am so afraid of using an electric saw!
And you know what? That’s very smart. Power tools can be dangerous and, when someone uses them thoughtlessly without proper safety precautions, it is risky business.
But that’s not how we roll here.
I mapped out How to Get Comfortable with Power Tools because often it’s just a matter of figuring out the root of your fear (injury? noise? incompetence?) and then taking the time to learn the proper use of the tools in a calm, no-pressure environment to feel confident and in control.
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 kind of reckless. And that’s nuts. Using a tool safely and properly is not only easier but more efficient. And calming.
If you are still leery about power tools, have a look at what I wrote. I know exactly what it’s like to have huge creative urges to make stuff and need a nudge to make it possible. If the only thing holding you back is an imagined fear of the tools, I guarantee you that, with the right approach, you can not only find the confidence to master them but you’ll also discover that it’s quite thrilling, and dare I say powerful to be able to use these tools like a boss—a safe, skilled, knowledgeable boss who can make so much cool stuff.
And think about it: if you can operate a sewing machine or drive a car, you can certainly master power tools. Seriously. It’s time.
Tool Tip
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.
From there all you often need is a drill (for drilling holes and driving screws) and a palm sander.
If you fall in love with building from wood, you can save up for more tools like a good saw and (well, the list is kind of endless!).
Creative & Useful Wood Projects to Make for your Garden
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
- 20+ Arbor, Trellis, & Obelisk Ideas | Empress of Dirt
- DIY Outdoor Plant Shelf | Empress of Dirt
- DIY Trellis for Climbing Fruits & Veggies | 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
Homes for Beneficials
- 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
Good tip for keeping ants out of your hummingbird feeder:
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! Once you get started and learn to use the tools properly, there are so many things to build.
~Melissa the Empress of Dirt ♛
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