We probably all are sick of sand in the bag form, but what about creating something far more fun out of sand…something that will bring your family hours of fun in your backyard? In about 3-4 hours of your time, you can have a sand oasis for your kiddos! Let the digging and sand throwing begin, after your quick evening project.

kidsMaterials Needed:

  • Screw gun
  • 3” triple-coated framing screws or 5/16 x 4” lag screws (for sturdier construction).
  • 6’ level
  • Framing Square or Speed Square
  • Tape Measure
  • Miter Saw or Skillsaw
  • Framing Pencil
  • 5/8” Paddle Bit
  • 1/4” Drill Bit, if using lag screws
  • 2 x 10 Framing Lumber—desired length of sandbox dimensions.
  • 2 x 12 Framing Lumber (for seating area on sandbox).
  • Tarp with snaps for cover (if desired).
  1. Determine the dimensions of the sandbox. (4’6” x 6’9” is shown). Prepare the area by removing sod/grass to the desired dimensions of sandbox. Place weed barrier under the entire area of the sandbox.
  2. This sandbox was constructed using “stepping.” This creates a sturdy frame that wears well. Measure the shortest side first, and cut an 1 1/2” each of the 4’6” boards to 4’ 4 ½”. Then cut 1 1/2” off the two 6’9” long boards to 6’ 7 ½”. This accounts for the “stepping.”
    Lay out a long and a short board, making sure it is flush. It is best to lay out and assemble on flat ground or cement. Prior to assembling the box, be sure to keep it square using a speed square or framing square. Use four 3-inch triple-coated exterior framing screws or two of the lag screws on each corner. The most important thing is making sure that it is flush and square! Continue assembling the box in the same fashion—flush and square!
  3. sandboxIf you’d like to add corner seats, use the 2 x 12. Measure the distance you want to end at in relation to the corner of the case. For the sandbox shown, 4” from the corner was used.
  4. Scribe under the board laying flat on top of the box. Use a skill saw to cut the board and 4 screws to attach the corner seat, making sure that the board is flush with the top of the sand box. Repeat this process for the opposite corner.
  5. Place the sandbox frame over the prepared area and fill with play sand. For the sandbox shown, ½ yard of sand was sufficient.
    For more stability, you can add lag screws to each corner using a paddle bit for counter sinking, then pre-drill in the center before running lag screws in.
  6. To keep rabbits, squirrels and cats (and water) out of your sandbox, you may want to invest in a cover. A vinyl tarp with snaps on the side of the sand box works well. The snaps are easy to install and the tarp is easy to take off and put back on when the play is done.
  7. Let the digging and playing begin!