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Easy in-store ReturnsHow to build a D.I.Y. gabion potting bench
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Overview
For a functional yet decorative addition to your outdoor space, our stylish gabion potting table doubles as a focal point in any garden. We show you how to build your own.
Tools and materials
Tools
Materials
- Clear varnish
- 2.5mm-thick galvanised tie wire
- 50mm countersinking treated pine screws
- 8G 20mm galvanised button head stitching timber screws
- Approximately 0.3 cubic metres of landscaping rocks larger than 50mm wide
- Four 600mm x 200mm x 100mm aerated concrete blocks
- Galvanised fixing clips
- Three S hooks
- Two 800mm x 400mm x 400mm gabions
- Three 1500mm lengths of 150mm x 30mm hardwood timber
- Two 440mm lengths of 50mm x 25mm hardwood timber
Steps
Make the base
Assemble the gabions by positioning the sides and bottom together and secure them by winding on the supplied spiral connectors, leaving the tops aside.
Insert two concrete blocks and brace the gabions
Place a gabion where the base of the potting bench will sit, then position two blocks in the centre. At the top, in the centre, twist wire around one side, run it to the other side and twist to secure and brace the sides to prevent bowing.
Place the stones in the gabion
Fill around the blocks with landscaping stones, positioning them to sit flush against the gabion sides, then attach the top with the supplied spiral connectors.
Stack the remaining gabion on top
Repeat by positioning two blocks in the centre of the next gabion, twisting wire over the top to brace the sides, fill with stones, then attach the top.
Secure the two gabions
Twist wire around the top and bottom gabion to hold them together at the front, back and sides, trimming excess with pliers.
Make the timber top
Position three lengths of 1500mm-long hardwood together, wrong-side up. Position 440mm lengths crosswise over the ends, then secure countersinking screws into the hardwood top, with two screws into each length at both ends.
Prepare the gabion for the top
Attach galvanised fixing clips onto the edge of the top gabion, at the front, sides and back, leaving them facing outwards for attaching to the top.
Position the top, sand, and apply varnish
Lift the top into position, right-way up and centred. Smooth over the top and along the edges and corners with 120-grit abrasive paper to remove any splinters, then smooth again with 180-grit. Apply two coats of clear exterior varnish, leaving to dry after each.
Secure the hardwood top
Secure 20mm galvanised stitching screws through the holes of the clips to secure the hardwood top to the gabion, to prevent it moving or tipping.
*Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.
More D.I.Y. garden projects
Browse our D.I.Y. advice page dedicated to gardening, where we share makeover projects and inspiration.
Photo Credit: John Downs
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More D.I.Y. Advice
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.