July 16, 2014

How to Build a Compost Bin in 15 minutes or less, for about $15!

Click HERE to see our How-To Video on How to Build a Compost Bin.

Supplies and Tools Needed:

• Heavy-gauge fencing.  The amount you need will be determined by the size of the compost bin that you want to build. Get a bit more than you think you need, just in case.
• A 2×2 made of pressure-treated wood,  that is a bit longer than the height of the compost bin you are building.  You will want to sharpen one end of it to a point, so that it serves as a stake.  
• Piece of scrap wood
• Hammer
• Fender Washers 
• Decking Screws, 1″ in length and self-tapping
• Power Drill with a phillips-head bit
• Safety Glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Take the length of fencing, and turn it upside-down, so that the factory edge is on the ground, and the bottom is facing up.
2. Bring the two ends of the fencing together to form a cylindrical shape, overlapping the ends.
3. Insert the stake inside the bin, along the overlapped area (flat side of the stake should be down)
4. Attach the stake to the fencing with your fender washers and deck screws.  Align it so that the screws are in the center of the piece of wood. (Note: This step will go easier if you have someone to hold the fencing in place while you attach the screws and washers.)  Also, at some point you may want to flip the bin so that you can access the lower section of the bin more easily.  
5. Once you have attached the screws and washers, flip the bin so that it is right-side up.  
6. Choose the spot in your yard in which you want to put the compost bin, and dig a small starter hole for the stake.
7. Set the bin in place, with the stake in the starter hole, and with your hammer, drive the stake into the ground.  This is where the scrap wood comes into play, as you will want to use it as a buffer between your hammer and the stake.  

And that is all it takes to build a compost bin in your own yard!

by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2014, All Rights Reserved