How to Build a Compost Bin

Compost is material that has been dehydrated and recycled. It is used as a fertilizer, particularly in organic farming because of its natural ingredients. In order to properly store the compost, you will need to build a compost bin where you can keep the compost.

Directions:

1. Measure out plywood pieces. You will need a piece that is 24x42 (which you will use for the top), a piece that is 23x42 (for the base), two pieces that are 16x24 (for ends), and two 16x24 pieces (used for the bin's sides).


2. Take a 12-foot long piece of 2x4 lumber and cut it into five different pieces of different lengths: two pieces that are 39 inches, two that are 23 inches, and one that is 20 inches.


3. Position the five pieces that you just cut so that you form a rectangle. The longer pieces of wood should be located on the interior of the rectangle, while the 20-inch piece is positioned in the middle, equidistant from the outer pieces. Secure these pieces into place with nails at the joints.


4. Cut four pieces of lumber from the 16-foot long piece of 2x4 lumber. These four pieces should be 1 foot long. Position two 16x42 plywood pieces and place a flat of 1 feet adjacent to the shorter end. Nail the 2x4s in place.


5. Finish the construction of the box by nailing the 16x24 plywood pieces on the bottom and sides along the ends.


6. Keep the box strong by placing nails together at least every 3 inches in length along the joints where the 2x4s meet the plywood.


7. Create draining holes along the bottom of the bin by drilling 12 holes 1/2 inch in diameter.


8. Cut the last section of 2x4 lumber (the last 12 feet of the original 16 feet) into two pieces that are 45 inches and two others that are 20 inches in length. Position these pieces into a rectangular shape, making sure that the shorter pieces of the wood are on the interior. This will be the frame for the lid.


9. Position the 24x42 plywood piece over the frame for the lid, making sure that the plywood is placed 1 1/2 inches on the interior edges of the frame. Nail the plywood to the frame.


10. Affix the hinges to the interior back of the box along each of the ends, as well as the area beneath the back of the lid frame where the two meet.