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This is a build about repetition and consistency, not difficulty — the bulk of the cut list is dozens of identical 1x2 and 1x3 pieces, and the real skill is in setting up a stop block on the miter saw so every one of them comes out exactly the same length rather than measuring and marking each individually. A slat box like this shows every small inconsistency, since the slats sit side by side in plain view.
The top is where the actual function lives: a half-circle notched out of each of the two center 1x2 boards, so an umbrella can pass through into the box below. Cut both notches from the same template so they line up into one clean circle once the boards are seated next to each other, rather than eyeballing two separate curves that may not match.
| Item | Qty |
|---|---|
| Pine, 1x2, 8 ft | 6 each |
| Pine, 1x3, 8 ft | 3 each |
| Pocket hole screws, 1-1/4" | 1 box |
| Finish nails or screws, 1-1/4" | 1 box |
| Wood glue | 3 oz |
Overall cost: $$. Lumber prices vary by region, species, and season, so we give a band rather than a figure we would only be pretending to know.
| Part | Qty | T × W × L |
|---|---|---|
| SlatsPine | 28 | 3/4" × 1 1/2" × 11 3/4" |
| Side frame piecesPine | 8 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 12 1/2" |
| Corner postsPine | 4 | 3/4" × 1 1/2" × 19" |
| Frame rails, tall sidePine | 4 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 19" |
| Frame rails, topPine | 2 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 19 1/4" |
| Frame rails, bottomPine | 2 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 14 1/2" |
| Frame slats, shortPine | 8 | 3/4" × 1 1/2" × 14 1/2" |
| Top frame, longPine | 2 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 19" |
| Top frame, notched centerPineNotch a matching half-circle out of each — cut from the same template so they align. | 2 | 3/4" × 2 1/2" × 17" |
Buy 10 boards at 8 ft.
4 boards
6 boards
Assumes 8 ft stock, a 1/8" saw kerf, and buying each part at its own width. Change the board size or kerf on the full board plan →
Build the two main slatted sides as shown, using a pocket hole jig — it's strongly recommended here. If you use a single pocket hole per joint instead, make sure it's glued as well so the joint doesn't twist over time.
Drill 3/4" pocket holes along the edges so the remaining sides can be attached in the next steps with all screws hidden on the inside. Also consider drilling pocket holes facing upward now for attaching the top later.
Build the remaining two sides the same way, again considering upward-facing pocket holes for the top.
Attach all four sides together to form the box.
Build the top frame. To let an umbrella pass through into the box, notch a half circle out of each of the two center 1x2 boards — cut both from the same template so the two notches line up into one clean circle once the boards are in place.
Sand every surface and edge smooth, then finish.
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