How to Build an Outdoor Recycling Bin

An outdoor recycling bin is a fantastic weekend woodworking project that can easily be done by anyone with a few basic tools and a little DIY knowledge. I've drawn up a complete set of blueprints for creating your own ½" plywood recycling bin. This 4x4' tall recycling bin has been drawn for two bins, but you can easily modify it to contain as many as you like. Complete with a closing lid, this outdoor recycling bin can be built cheaply and sturdy enough to know it will last a lifetime.

Begin by buying three sheets of ½" plywood or OSB. Whatever is cheapest, you're just going to paint over it when it is complete. You'll also need 1" galvanized wood screws to hold the entire project together. Don't forget the two hinges for the lid and a handle. Last but not least you'll need a bucket of paint in your choice of color.

Cutting the six components of this project are fairly straight forward and simple and measurements can be found in the Slideshow Blueprint. Using a circular saw, cut the first sheet of plywood 4x4' and the remainder of it at 4x2'6". The next sheet should be cut at 2'7"x4'; this will be the lid. The last sheet of plywood is for the two side pieces and the bottom piece and should be cut according to the Slideshow Blueprint.

Once your components are ready to go, a few well placed galvanized 1" woodscrews will hold the bottom and side panels together. Don't forget to leave a 1" gap on the back of the bottom panel for drainage.

Now attach the center piece or pieces for the separate storage bins using the woodscrews. Use a square to ensure a plumb alignment when you're attaching the panels with the woodscrews.

Finish the project by attaching the two hinges to the lid, then placing the lid on top of the recycling bin. Once it is properly aligned, mark the hinge screw holes with a pencil, and then finish attaching the screws.

Paint to suit your taste for recycling bins and enjoy! A good set of blocks, bricks or other dunnage is required to keep the recycling bin off of the ground and free from rot, decay and bugs.