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A cedar 2x2 frame that holds four concrete cap blocks as its walls — the wood is just the skeleton, the pavers are the planter.
| Part | Qty | T × W × L | Material | ✓ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legs | 4 | 1 1/2" × 1 1/2" × 23 3/4" | Cedar 2x2 | ☐ |
| Slot rails Measure your blocks first and adjust — cut a little long to allow the blocks to slide in with about 1/8"–1/4" clearance. | 8 | 1 1/2" × 1 1/2" × 15 3/4" | Cedar 2x2 | ☐ |
| Item | Qty | ✓ |
|---|---|---|
| 8x16x2 concrete cap blocks The planter's actual walls — measure yours before cutting the frame. | 4 each | ☐ |
| Cedar, 2x2, 8 ft Pressure-treated works too if it's for exterior use. | 3 each | ☐ |
| 2-1/2" exterior deck screws or pocket hole screws | 1 box | ☐ |
| Landscape adhesive (concrete and wood compatible) | 1 tube | ☐ |
Overall cost: $$. Lumber varies by region, species, and season, so we give a band rather than a figure.
Tools: Drill / Driver, Pocket Hole Jig. Materials: Cedar, 2x2, 8 ft, 2-1/2" exterior deck screws or pocket hole screws
Build two identical side frames from the legs and rails, either with predrilled 2-1/2" exterior deck screws and glue, or with pocket holes set for 1-1/2" stock and 2-1/2" exterior pocket hole screws. The top rail needs to sit down from the leg tops by a distance matching the width of your paver blocks — this is the slot they'll sit in.
Tools: Drill / Driver. Materials: Cedar, 2x2, 8 ft
Join the two side frames with more 2x2 rails using the same joinery method, forming the full box shape.
Tools: Drill / Driver
Repeat the process to add a few more 2x2 rails inside for extra rigidity, especially if your blocks are heavy or your frame spans a long side.
Materials: Landscape adhesive (concrete and wood compatible)
Apply landscape adhesive to the wood where each block will sit, then slide the blocks into place. Wrap a ratchet strap or rope around the whole assembly to hold everything tight while the adhesive cures — check the product's instructions, but expect to leave it overnight. Once cured, line the inside with landscape fabric, add soil, and plant.