Introduction: Harvest Basket (Garden Trug)

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About: I like to design and build random things.

This is a simple design built from reclaimed wood and purchased ¼” wood slats. It cost very little and only took a couple of hours to complete the build. The goal was light weight, shallow and wide for collecting leafy vegetables, easy to handle and somewhat attractive. If pallets are used, see pallet safety link here.

Video of the Build:

Step 1: Tools/Materials

Tools:

  • Jig or band saw
  • Drill and 9/16” bit
  • Hammer or Nail Gun
  • Sander

Materials:

  • 1/2" x 5" x 4'
  • 1.5" x 1/4" x 8' (x3)
  • Nails
  • Glue
  • Stain or Paint (optional)
  • Rope (1/2” diameter, by 6’)

Step 2: You Will Be Building to This Drawing

Step 3: Cut Wood

A table saw was used for all of the straight cuts. Cut the sides to 24” and the slats to 12”

Step 4: Mark Arc

Use a string to mark the arc as shown. Note that the arc intersects the corners.

Step 5: Cut Arc

Attach the two 24” sides together with a nails or screws on the parts that will be removed. Use a jig or band saw to cut the arc.

Step 6: Attach Slats

Glue and nail the slats as shown. I used an extra slat to achieve uniform spacing. Note that the dimensions didn’t work out exactly. I had to reduce the gaps slightly on the last four slats.

Step 7: Drill Rope Holes

Drill 9/16” holes as shown in Step 3.

Step 8: Sand

Sand completed assembly.

Step 9: Stain (optional)

This is a homemade stain made from ¼ cup instant coffee and 5 drops of red food coloring. These ingredients were mixed with ½ cup of water.

Step 10: Add Rope

The handles were made from ½” rope. Feed rope through holes and tie knots on the inner sides.

Step 11: Final Product

Step 12: Enjoy the Harvest