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)

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

Hang the window box (optional)

First, find the wall studs that frame the window (you'll be screwing hooks into them). On the standard single window, the easiest way to find them is to mark the center of your windowsill and measure 16 inches (40.5 centimeters) either way. Mark these points on the sill, then measure down below the windowsill 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) and mark these same points. This is where your screw hooks will be.

Next, pre-drill the holes for the screw hooks. Drill at a slight angle upward (the same angle as the windowsill), then screw in the hooks until only the hooked end is visible.

To attach the eyescrews to your window box, turn the box on its side so the front faces downward. On either end of the back side of the box, mark a point 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) from the top edge and 3/8 of an inch (1 centimeter) from the side edge. The distance between these two points will be 32 inches (81 centimeters) if you have a standard window. Pre-drill both points so the pilot hole goes through the back piece and into each side piece. Angle the drill slightly downward toward the opposite corner of the side piece. Finally, screw in the eyescrews and hang the box on the two hooks.

The box should hang right below the windowsill, for easy indoor access (plus, it's removable if the weather gets too cold). If the box tips forward too much, nail or screw in some spacers (two small wood scraps should do it) on the bottom of the back side to push against the outer wall, making it hang straight.

Fill it with your soil (use high-quality packaged soil for the best results), seeds, transplants, or potted plants, and watch your little, readily accessible, potentially mobile garden grow.

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