Introduction: Harvest Basket (Garden Trug)
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.
12 Comments
8 years ago on Introduction
This looks great! I love the simplicity of the design. Looks like anyone can make it with some basic tools.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Thank you. Yes, it's a really easy build. Nice project for kids.
4 months ago
You could do something very similar but use weldmesh/hardware cloth for the bottom. You could just staple it on.... the has got me thinking.....
8 years ago
You could retain the man card by stating that you built it for your wife/mother/sister as a gift. Additionally, you automatically get it back with that stain; what a great idea! Nice, simple project with nice rewards.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Thank you. It was for my wife :).
8 years ago on Introduction
I love that stain! Great idea and food-safe, too.
8 years ago on Introduction
Its neat :)
8 years ago on Introduction
I love that stain! Great idea and food-safe, too.
8 years ago on Introduction
Stunning work. Soon I'll be the envy of all the other ladies at the farmers market!
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
I'm going to lose my man card for that comment but I'm glad you liked it :).
8 years ago
I love it! I like the home made stain that you used.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Thanks.