Get into the summer spirit with a DIY sandbox project that brings a touch of the beach to your backyard! This easy-to-build sandbox includes space for the kids to play, an easy-to-close lid to keep out furry friends, and a folding bench for the grown-ups to sit and relax.

We put together a simple step-by-step guide to build the ultimate sandbox for the little guys and gals in your life. Read on to learn how you can build a sitting sandbox of your own and enjoy your life outdoors this summer.

Supply list

For this project you will need the following materials:

• Brown-treated lumber
• 8 - 2” x 8” x 8’
• 4 - 2” x 6” x 8’
• 16 - 1¼” x 6” x 8’ deck boards
• Brown deck screws
• 2 lb. - 3-inch
• 1 lb. - 1¾-inch
• 12 strap hinges - 4-inch
• 4 door pulls - 5½-inch

You can find these materials at your local Co-op Home Centre. Having trouble finding the right pieces? Just ask! Co-op Home Centre team members are experienced and knowledgeable about all kinds of DIY projects and materials. They’ll help you find what you need and can provide helpful advice for your project.

Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to start building!

Part 1: Frame it out

Begin by getting your frame laid out. Cut three inches off the length of four 2 x 8 boards. Form a square by placing two cut boards at either end between two full 2 x 8 boards and screw into place using two three-inch screws on each corner. Ensure the frame is square – use a speed square, try the 3-4-5 method or measure diagonals.

Use the remaining cut boards as frame supports, placed parallel to the other cut boards on each end and leaving a 12½-inch space. Cut 10 support joists that are 12½ inches long from the remaining two 2 x 8 boards. Place five joists on each side between the frame support and outside frame, spacing evenly – about 15 inches on centre. Attach all pieces using three-inch screws.

Part 2: Put a lid on it

Cover the joists by attaching three 1¼ x 6 deck boards. The first board on should be flush with the corners of the frame. Attach the other two, leaving a ½-inch space between the boards. Repeat this on the other side of the sandbox.

Part 3: Take a seat

Create the bench bottom by laying three deck boards parallel to each other, spaced a ½-inch apart. Cut four 15½-inch pieces from a 2 x 6 board. On each end, place two 15½-inch pieces perpendicular to the boards, offset from the edge at least 1½ inches – the lid won’t close properly if it’s any less. Attach the 15½-inch pieces, which act as armrests, using the 3-inch deck screws. Repeat this series of steps to make a second bench seat for the other side of the sandbox.

Next, attach the bench seats on each side to the sandbox. Lay each bench seat parallel to the deck boards attached to the frame in Part 2. Leave a ½-inch of space. The armrests should be facing downwards. Attach the bench seats with three hinges per side on the top of the sandbox using 1¾-inch screws.

Part 4: Lean back

To create the bench back, lay two deck boards parallel to each other, spaced a half-inch apart. Cut the remaining 2 x 6 boards into six 20 ½-inch lengths. Take two 20½-inch pieces, and lay them perpendicular to the deck boards, flush with each edge and one corner. The 2 x 6 pieces will extend past the edge of the two deck boards – that’s all right. Attach using the 1¾ -inch deck screws. Centre a third 2 x 6 piece between the first two pieces and attach with the shorter deck screws. Repeat this series of steps on the other side of the box with the remaining three 2 x 6 pieces and deck boards.

To attach the bench back to the sandbox, lay the back pieces parallel to the bench seat, spaced ½-inch apart, with the 2 x 6 boards on the top side. Attach with three hinges per side.

That completes your project. You should now have a sandbox with a lid that folds open into benches.

• Tip: When adding sand, ensure you leave enough space to properly close the sandbox lid.

Time to play!

This sandbox is great fun for the whole family. Heavily constructed for years of wear and tear, this great build will bring you years of enjoyment.

Looking for more fun summer DIY projects? Check out our Co-op Home blog for lots of fun inspiration and content.