Step 9: Cut the Back Battens

cutting a bevel in the battens with a jigsaw
Photo: Matthew Benson
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The battens binding the back boards together must be beveled at the top to match the side taper. Using the miter saw, cut a scrap block to the angle of the taper. Then loosen the jigsaw footplate, hold it flat against the side edge, tilt the blade to match the taper, and set the saw, as shown. Cut the bevel. Now cut the batten to length so that it's flush with the frame height from the peak of the bevel to the bottom of the board. Repeat for a second batten.

Tip

If the plants you want to grow are taller than what would fit in this frame, you can make your version higher by adding a plank to each side and sizing the battens accordingly.
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    Tools List

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    • miter saw
      miter saw
    • jigsaw
      jigsaw
    • drill
      drill/driver
    • straightedge guide
      straightedge
    • hand clamps
      clamps
    • caulk gun
      caulk gun
    • metal garden rake
      garden rake
    • garden spade
      garden spade

    Shopping List

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    [1. 5/4x6 decking by Cambia Get at least three 8-foot boards.

    2. salvaged window sash pavers Get enough to set beneath each side of the frame.

    3. construction adhesive

    4. 1⅝-inch deck screws 5. 2½-inch deck screws

    6. brass sash pull

    7. 4-inch galvanized strap hinges Get two to attach the window to the frame.

    8. 4-inch removable-pin hinges Get one for the inside of each corner to make the frame collapsible.

    9. ½-inch dowel Get at least 6 feet to make venting poles of various lengths.]