This step by step diy project is about free sandbox plans. If you want to entertain your kids and to keep them busy for hours and hours, you should consider building a simple sandbox out of wood. Although this is a basic woodworking project, there are still several aspects that should be tackled with great care. Read the instruction with great care and make sure you follow the guidelines showed in the diagrams.
Taking into account you are going place the sandbox in your backyard, we recommend you to invest in weather-resistant lumber, such as pine, redwood or cedar. Take accurate measurements before making the cuts with a proper saw. Choose a proper location and level the surface thoroughly before installing the sandbox into place. Dig 12″ holes into the ground to secure the posts into place properly.
Building a sandbox
Building a wooden sandbox
Materials
- 1 – 4 pieces of 2×10 lumber – 72″ FRAME
- 2 – 4 piece of 4×4 lumber – 21 1/2” POSTS
- 3 – 4 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 73″ TRIMS
Tools
- Hammer, Tape measure, Carpentry square
- Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander, Router
- Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses, Respiratory Mask
Time
- One day
Free Sandbox Plans
Making the frame of the sandbox
The first step of the project is to build the frame of the sandbox. As you can notice in the plans, you have to use 2×10 or 2×12 lumber for the frame of the sandbox and 4×4 lumber for the corner posts. Work with attention and check if the corners are right-angled before inserting the galvanized screws.
PRO TIP: Cut both ends of the frame components at 45 degrees, as to get rigid and pleasant-looking joints. Add waterproof glue to the joints in order to enhance the bond of the components. Drill pilot holes at both ends of the slats and insert 3 1/2″ bolts into the posts, after making countersink holes.
Fitting the fabric inside the sandbox
Although this step is not compulsory, we strongly recommend you to consider adding landscaping fabric inside the frame of the sandbox. In this manner, you will protect the wooden components from water damage and increase the lifespan of the wooden sandbox.
Attaching the trims
One of the last things you should do is add trims to the frame of the sandbox. Cut both ends of the 2×6 trims at 45 degrees and lock them into place with finishing nails and waterproof glue. If properly installed, these trims can be used as benches by your kids.
Free sandbox plans
Last but not least, you should take care of the finishing touches. Check if the components are secured into place properly and if the frame is rigid. Make sure there are no protruding screws or sharp edges that could injure your kids.
PRO TIP: Fill the holes with a good wood filler and smooth the surface with 120-grit sandpaper. Round the exposed edges and the corners with a router and a 3/4″ bit. Apply several coats of paint or stain over the components, in order to protect them from decay.
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