
	Intro: Before you begin Step 1: Measure and cut the wood Step 2: Assemble the window box Step 3: Line and seal the window box Step 4: Hang the window box (optional)








	If you buy your wood at a lumberyard, remember that the actual width of the board is usually 3/4 of an inch (2 centimeters) less than what's marked, while the thickness is usually 1/4-inch (.4-centimeter) less. For example, a 1 by 8-inch (2.5 by 20-centimeter) board is actually 3/4 by 7.25 inches (2 by 18.4 centimeters). The cheapest way to buy lumber is to get it in large pieces, then cut it yourself. Note: to cut the bottom piece (a long cut), you would probably need a table saw. If you use any type of electric saw, always follow the proper safety procedures. Never use an electric saw for the first time without an experienced person helping you.

2torial #0613:
Learn2 Build a Window Box (continued)

Measure and cut the wood

The size of your box depends on the size of the window (if you want to hang it from the windowsill), and what you want to plant. If you want to hang it from a window, the box's length should be 3/4 of an inch (2 centimeters) more than the interior wall studs that frame the window. (For most single windows, the distance between the wall studs is 32 inches, or 81 centimeters). If you're creating a box for a double window, measure the window's width from one outside edge of the trim to the other--this will be the length of your box.

If you'll be using the box to hold potted plants, its height and width should be slightly taller and wider than the largest pot.

The box can be as deep or as shallow as you want, but remember certain plants need more space for root growth than others. If you want to plant seeds or transplants, make sure your box will give them enough room to grow (check the seed packet information, or ask at your garden center).

A finished box is long and rectangular, and made from five cut pieces. For the sake of simplicity, these instructions will be for a box measuring 8 by 6 by 32.75 inches (20.3 by 15.2 by 83 centimeters), using standard "1 by" thickness (which is actually 3/4 of an inch, or 2 centimeters). That means you'll need to cut the following pieces:

Two long pieces for the front and back (in this case, measuring 1 by 8 by 32.75 inches, or 2.5 by 20.3 by 83 centimeters).
One bottom piece, the same length but narrower (1 by 6 by 32.75 inches, or 2.5 by 15.2 by 83 centimeters).
Two side pieces, the width matching the height of the bottom piece, and the height subtracting the width of the bottom piece (1 by 7.25 by 3.75 inches, or 2.5 by 18.4 by 9.5 centimeters).

Save any scraps--you might need them for "spacers" if you hang the box (see Step 4).

Step 2