5 Easy Summer Woodworking Projects to Brighten Your Home or Patio

Longer days, open windows, iced coffee on the porch…summer is here! And it’s the perfect time to take your woodworking skills outside - or bring a little seasonal charm into your home.

Whether you’re just starting out or itching for a warm-weather weekend projects, these 5 beginner friendly builds are fun, useful, and full of summer style.

1.  Outdoor Drink Caddy

Perfect for: Backyard BBQ’s, picnics, or porch chill time

Build a simple wooden caddy with a handle to carry drinks, utensils, or napkins.  Add a bottle opener to the side for bonus points!

Skills used: Basic cuts, joining, optional handle drilling

Style it: Stain it rustic or paint it a pop of summer color.

2. Vertical Herb Garden or Planter Box

Perfect for: small spaces, kitchen windows, or patios

Create a planter box or tiered garden to grow your favorite herbs or flowers.

Skills used: Measuring, cutting, nailing or screwing pieces together

Pro tip: use cedar for outdoor durability!

3. Bee Hotel or Birdhouse

Perfect for: helping pollinators, garden decor, kids’ projects

A bee hotel or birdhouse is a small build that packs a lot of purpose.  Customize the size, shape, and color for a fun decorative touch.

Skills used: small part assembly, drilling, sanding.

This is a great project for beginners with kids, too!

4. Rustic Welcome Sign

Perfect for: Front porch or entryway

Design a cheerful “Hello Summer” or “Welcome Friends” sign.  Use scrap wood, paint, stencils, or even try woodburning.

Skills used: sanding, finishing, optional stencil/paint work.

Customize it with seasons flowers or stars for the 4th of July!

5. DIY Firewood Rack

Perfect for: Keeping summer bonfire wood neat & dry

Build a small firewood holder for your backyard.  This simple but strong project teaches stability and load-bearing design.

Skills used: measuring, drilling, securing larger pieces

Go mini for small patios, or scale it up for a rustic look.

Why Summer Is the Best Season to Build

• Warm weather = easy outdoor cleanup

• Dry conditions help stain paint and cure faster

• Longer daylight gives you more time to finish your build

• Summer markets and festivals are great places to show or sell your work!

At Third Shift Crafts, we believe any season is a good season to make something - but summer brings extra inspiration, especially when you can open the garage or work outside.

Pick a project, grab your tools, and enjoy the season while creating something beautiful with your own two hands