How to Build a Sandbox

Save trips to the park with a sandbox in the backyard.

Figure F

All About

Product Ideas

Materials and tools:

lumber to comprise sides and seats:
one 4' x 8' sheet of standard plywood (This piece should be cut in half, then one of the halves cut in half again to create the doors that protect the sandbox.)
four 1' x 12'
four 1' x 10'
two 2' x 2'

play sand (at least 8 bags)
drill
drill bits
sandpaper
rope
utility knife
measuring tape
hinges
pencil
screwdriver bits
wood screws
eye goggles

Figure A

Steps:

1. Construct the frame out of the 1x12s. Have them cut to 47" in length. Since the base is 48" square, just butt the ends together and the lumber will fit together perfectly.

Figure B

2. Set the base on top of the frame and screw on tightly.

3. The seats are next. Use the 1x 10s to make the seats 10" tall. Drop a 1x10 in the box and butt it up against the edge, then draw a pencil line across the top.

Figure C

4. Screw in a 2x2 resting on the pencil line to make the seats nice and sturdy.

5. Hinge together two 1x10s and set into place as bench seat on top of each 2x2. The hinges will be facing toward the sandbox interior. Drill more screws into the supports on the sides so that the seats are strongly in place.

Figure D

6. Drill two holes in each seat and run rope through to make a handle. This enables the seats to serve as storage bins for toys, water, sunscreen or anything else the kids might need.

7. Use the same technique for adding the protective doors as with the seats, with hinges and nylon rope for little hands. Not only do the doors protect the sandbox from the elements, but a neighborhood cat could also mistake a sandbox for a litter box, and this could pose a health hazard.

Figure E

8. Stack the bags of sand and cut slits on the ends to allow the sand to pour slowly into the sandbox. Don't forget your goggles on this step.

9. Now the kids can enjoy their new sandbox.

Note: When considering where to place the sandbox, make sure the space is flat, sunny and away from trees, sprinkler heads, electrical wiring, gas grills and air-conditioning units. Also, it is important to not use pressure-treated lumber, which can be harmful to young children, especially if they are teething.