$15 Solar Lamp Planter Box Gift

A simple solar lamp gift built from three fence boards, a Dollar Tree solar light, and a small planter box. The back panel can be customized with lettering to make it personal for gifts, holidays, or outdoor decor.

Materials

– 3 fence boards
– Dollar Tree solar light
– Wood glue
– Narrow crown staples, brad nails, nails, or screws
– Exterior stain, optional
– Custom lettering or paint on stencil

Tools

– Circular saw
– Speed square
– Tape measure
– Narrow crown stapler, brad nailer, or drill
– 80-120 grit sandpaper + sander, optional

Steps

Cut three fence board pieces to 42” for the tall back structure.
Attach the three 42” boards together along their edges using wood glue and your fastener of choice to create a box-style back section.
Cut the top cap to 6 1/2”. Add angled cuts on the ends for a decorative look, then attach it to the top of the back structure.
Cut the planter box pieces: two sides at 11” and three pieces at 6 7/8” for the front and bottom.
Attach the 11” side pieces to one 6 7/8” front piece along the edges using glue and fasteners.
Add the 6 7/8” bottom pieces to complete the planter box.
Slide in and attach the planter box into the 42” back portion, keeping it square and centered.
Add the solar light near the top of the structure (I used a hook fastener for this)
Apply stain if desired and let it dry fully.
Add customized lettering to the back panel for a personalized finished look.

Notes

This build assumes standard fence boards are used and ripped or arranged as needed to create the box-style back.
Pre-drill if using screws to help prevent splitting near the ends of the fence boards.
Outdoor stain or sealer will help the wood hold up longer outside.
Keep the solar light exposed to direct sun so it charges properly.

Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 1 hour