This is my first attempt at an instructable and my first attempt at making a compost tumbler. The research I've done on different compost bins leads me to believe this style works best.

Step 1: 55 Gal. Barrels / Drums

This seems to be the toughest step for DIY'ers trying to make a compost tumbler. Where can you find large plastic 55 gal. drums? My advice is to keep your eyes open when you're out and about. We've all seen them at some point, but never pay attention as to where or when. LOOK... you will find them. I planned on cutting the bottom off of one to make a door, but thought of a better idea so I could make two tumblers.

Step 2: Cutting the Door

For this step I used two templates to make a hole and a door. I cut the hole into the bottom of the barrel and filed off the edges. Make sure you use the bottom of the barrel, as you'll need to make use of the top later.

I found a large piece of scrap plastic to make a door. Again, I traced the template, cut, and filed the edges.

Step 3: Attach the Door

Here I have attached the door using a door hinge and two barrel latches.

Step 4: Drilling Pivot Holes

This tumbler works by spinning the barrel end over end. I'm using 1.25" steel pipe to feed through the barrel. You'll need to drill the same size holes through the PVC pipe that will be used on the inside of the container. The PVC is attached to the screw cap holes in the top of the barrel and allow air to flow into your compost.

Step 5: Assembling the PVC

You'll need to carefully assemble the PVC pieces. I slid the steel pipe through the holes to keep everything aligned. Drill plenty of small air holes into the PVC. I drilled holes about 1.5" apart and all around the pipes.

It's hard to see in the picture, but the PVC is screwed into the hole at the top of the barrel. I found a piece PVC that was threaded. All pieces are 2" PVC.

When completed, the top of the barrel will become the bottom of the tumbler. Air will flow in and through the PVC piping.