digest
Short Summary
Main recommendation: Build a simple outdoor compost bin from basic lumber, using a jigsaw, circular saw, or miter saw, with slide-in front panels and chicken wire sides. The project requires little precision and no special woodworking skills, and the video presents it as achievable with limited tools.
Key Points
- The bin is designed so the front panels slide down into a slot, making the compost easy to access and shovel out.
- Chicken wire on the sides is meant to contain the compost and help keep critters out.
- Scrap 2x4s screwed together can be used as a temporary brace to keep the sides square during assembly.
- Redwood deck stain is applied to the wood to extend its life; the speaker says it is harmless to plants or soil once dry.
- The speaker notes the project does not need fine precision since it is simply for holding garbage.
Details Worth Noting
- Concrete instructions:
- Cut the wood with a jigsaw, circular saw, or miter saw. To speed cutting, attach a board to the saw to create an extra-long fence, use its slot to measure board lengths, and clamp on a stop block.
- Cut all pieces at once, since precision is not critical.
- Screw two scrap 2x4s together to hold the sides square while assembling.
- Draw center lines on a board to help center it during assembly.
- Coat the wood with redwood deck stain before assembly, and let it dry fully.
- Join the pieces with long screws.
- Leave enough clearance in the slot for the front panels so they fit comfortably.
- Attach chicken wire to the sides and use stakes to keep the front from spreading apart.
- Build the front panels as removable panels to make shoveling compost easier.
- The speaker turns the compost regularly with a pitchfork. The second stage shown was closed in May, the beginning of that year, so after about four months the material had only just started breaking down.
- A companion video by Christopher on basic composting is referenced for background.
Bottom Line
A basic, forgiving wooden compost bin with removable front panels and chicken wire sides is a practical beginner project that needs only a few common cutting tools.
