Reclaimed Wood Potting Bench

Looking for a versatile outdoor piece that does more than just hold your garden tools? This DIY potting bench, built from reclaimed wood, is not only functional for gardening tasks—it also makes a charming beverage station for your next backyard gathering. With built-in storage, a spacious work surface, and rustic good looks, this bench is a hardworking addition to your outdoor space all season long.

I love using reclaimed wood to make projects, and y’all know that! The reason? The cost! The only thing I have invested in this reclaimed wood potting bench are some screws, paint, time and energy.

How to Build a Potting Bench from Reclaimed Wood

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I gathered these materials to design my potting bench: an old door, reclaimed pickets, and some reclaimed lumber.

Make Two Sides for Reclaimed Wood Potting Bench

I quickly decided against using the door after realizing I had enough reclaimed wood to make the potting bench. First, I started making 2 identical sides.

Notice I put the bottom boards toward the inside so I could rest a bottom shelf on them.

Reclaimed Wood Potting Bench Design Stage

Nothing is secure yet; this is a dry fit to ensure I’m okay with how things are going.

Use Exterior Wood Screws to Secure Your Boards

I secured each of the boards with screws and cut an extra board for the front of the base.

Then, I used more pickets for the back of the reclaimed wood potting bench. I clamped it in place as I used screws to secure it to the base.

Make Any Minor Adjustments as Needed

There was a gap between the picket top and the base leg, so I filled it in with a scrap board.

Simple Potting Bench | Outdoor Beverage Station

The potting bench was nearly finished, but I thought it needed a little something else. Something that would also make this project perfect for an outdoor beverage station!

Add an Upper Shelf

I wanted to add a shelf, and this is where I make extra work for myself. I wouldn’t run into these issues if I were to make sketches, but I’m here to “teach” you so that you can get it right from the beginning. After doing a temporary dry fit for my shelf, I noticed I could see the board in the back.

I clamped another board to the back, directly behind the shelf board. Not only will it look better, but it will help make the shelf sturdier. After attaching the shelf and the new board, I removed the board on top.

I love fast, easy, cheap projects! Did you see all the reclaimed wood I got last week? I have so many more projects in the future! Let’s take one last look.

Who Doesn’t Love Whitewash?

I whitewashed it!

This isn’t just a potting bench; it easily doubles as an outdoor beverage station! See how easy it is to achieve matching decor with spray paint!

Whether you’re potting plants in the morning or serving drinks in the evening, this reclaimed wood bench easily transitions from practical to party-ready. Its dual-purpose design proves that with a little creativity, your DIY projects can work double duty. Ready to build your own?

gail

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