Build a Zen Garden Box

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For this project, we decided to make the outside dimensions 10" x 16". We used crown moulding for the rails. Select the material and dimensions you want to use for the rails, just remember to scale up or down accordingly.

Set up your miter saw to give you accurate cuts. Testing the saw on scrap wood will let you create flush joints on your workpieces.

1. Set the miter saw at a 45º bevel.

2. Cut four identical pieces of scrap with 45º bevels on each end.

3. Fit the pieces together and check the joints. Each corner should fit flush and square. If the corners don't fit correctly, adjust the cutting angle. Continue testing and adjusting until all four joints fit properly.

1. Decide which side of the rails will face away from the box and mark the pieces.

   Determine which side of the rails should face away from the box. The side that faces away from the box is the face. Mark the face of each rail piece. You should have two pieces marked for 10" and two marked for 16".



2. Pay attention to the angle of the cut.

   Cut the rail pieces. Pay attention to the bevels when cutting, the cut should always angle in toward the back of the rail.
   
   


3. Fit the rails together and check the joints at each corner. Correct minor imperfections with a file or sandpaper.




4. Fit rails together and measure inside dimensions.

   With the rails fitted together, measure the inside dimensions. Transfer the dimensions to a squared piece of 1x lumber.
   
   
5. Use a circular saw or table saw to cut the 1x board to size. The cut board will be the floor of the box.
   
   


6. Dry fit the rails and floor together and check the joints. Make any necessary adjustments to the pieces.

Rail secured to floor.

1. Predrill the rails for nailing to the floor. Two or three nails per side should be enough.
   
   
2. Apply a light bead of wood glue to the edges and ends of the floor and the corners of the rails.
   
   
3. Nail through the rails into the floor. Ensure that all joints meet properly.
   
   
4. Use a nail set to set the nails below the surface of the rails.
   
   
5. Wrap and secure a banding clamp around the perimeter of the box.
   
   
6. Wipe away any glue that squeezes out at the joints. Allow the glue to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Cut 2 1/2" squares from a piece of 1x lumber.

1. Use a circular saw or table saw to cut four
   2 1/2" squares from a piece of 1x lumber.
   

2. Use a round over, cove or other bit to rout a decorative profile on two adjoining edges of each square.
   

3. Sand the decorative edges smooth.

Check for level and sand any thickness off the feet.

1. Remove the banding clamp from the box and carefully scrape away any excess glue.
   
   
2. Fit the feet to the bottom of the box, and check to see that the box sits level. Make any adjustments necessary by sanding the thickness of the feet.
   
   
3. Apply a thin coat of glue to the top of the feet and clamp each one to the bottom of the box.
   
   
4. Allow the glue to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   
   
5. Remove the clamps.

Paint or stain your zen garden box and add sand, stones and accessories according to your taste.