The Bottom

Select the best surface of the bottom piece and mark it the working face (Chapter II., Paragraph 2). Prepare a working edge (Chapter II., Paragraph 4). Gauge the width on both surfaces (Chapter II., Paragraphs 6 or 7). You will have to think carefully in determining the width of the bottom piece. The dimension in the drawing is from outside to outside of the box; it therefore includes the width of the bottom piece and the thickness of the two sides. Square one end (Chapter II., Paragraph 5). Measure and lay out the proper length. Notice that this bottom piece is to be cut enough shorter than the side pieces to receive the end pieces, therefore the bottom piece will be the thickness of the two ends shorter than the side pieces.

The Ends

Carefully square the stock (Chapter II., Paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5). Lay out and cut one end the desired size. (Notice that the length of the end pieces is determined by the width of the bottom.) In like manner prepare the other end. Carefully compare the two end pieces to make sure they are exactly the same dimensions and perfectly square. Note: In any kind of box construction the opposite sides must be exactly the same length and all corners must be perfectly square or the box will not be rectangular when assembled.

Assembling

This work is to be assembled with nails (Chapter II., Paragraph 21). Finishing nails are recommended, because they have small heads and will therefore enable you to do a neater piece of work (6d common nails or slender-bodied box nails would be satisfactory, but they must be carefully used so the heads will not damage the appearance of the work).

Finishing

After the box is assembled, with a sharp block plane set to take a very thin shaving, plane the outside of all the joints slightly, if necessary, to make them perfectly even. Finish with a sharp steel scraper (Chapter II., Paragraph 16). Sandpaper the entire surface (Chapter II., Paragraph 17). Inasmuch as this box is to hold dirt and will thus be kept moist almost constantly, it should have at least two coats of good paint, both inside and out. Paint it any desirable color (Chapter IV., Paragraph 52).

Optional and Home Projects Employing Similar Principles.

Porch Flower Box

1. A porch flower box should be made the size and shape to suit the place for which it is intended. Where one side of the box is against the wall, the shapes shown in suggestions Nos. 2 and 3 are desirable. If both sides of the box are exposed, as is the case when used on a porch balustrade, the shapes shown in Nos. 4 and 5 would be preferable.

Rustic Flower Box

2. A rustic flower box is always attractive and is not difficult to make. Prepare a strong, substantial box of the desired size; collect a number of limbs about 1 1/2" in diameter; leave on the bark; rip them in two lengthwise and nail them to the box, covering it completely.