Looking Back

Do you have a wood lathe in your shop?

Flower Planter Box Design Plans

Download Plans

A lathe is probably one of those tools you don’t really need, but it’s definitely fun to use once in a while. About nine years ago, I built what I call a flower box planter—specifically requested by my wife, Laurel.

At the time, it was my first experience turning full-size legs. I’d spent some time playing around on the lathe, making things like rolling pins and other small projects, but I’d never turned anything with a real profile before.

The legs aren’t particularly fancy, but they get the job done. Nine years later, I still like the design, which says a lot because most of us woodworkers tend to find things we’d change after a project has been around for a while.

This planter sits right out front, so it’s one of the first things visitors see when they come to the house. I have to say, it’s held up remarkably well over the years. Laurel does a great job keeping it filled with flowers throughout the growing season and decorating it during the holidays, so it always seems to fit the time of year.

Looking back, this project was a great introduction to turning and a reminder that you don’t need complicated profiles or elaborate details to create something that looks good and stands the test of time.

If you’re looking for a project that will put your lathe-turning skills to work, check this one out. I think you’ll really enjoy building it.

Happy woodworking, and I’ll see you in the next one.