You won’t be able to fully relax at the dacha with small children due to constant monitoring of the kids. These fidgets will not be in one place, so every now and then you will have to be distracted and keep order. How to attract children so that they all play with interest in one place? There is a way out of this situation - you need to install a sandbox with a lid. To create a play area for children and comfortable stay For you, you can buy a ready-made sandbox design. However, this pleasure is not cheap, so it is quite possible to build the structure with your own hands. This process does not take much time and does not require any specific materials. Enough available tools, your basic plumbing skills and imagination.
Types of sandboxes. Advantages and disadvantages
Exist different kinds sandboxes, which are divided into:
| By material | By type of design |
| Wood | With a coverable lid to protect the sand from debris and rain. It is made in the form of a removable panel or door attached to metal hinges. |
| Plastic and plastic | With a lid that can transform into a bench. |
| Metal | There are sandboxes with a collapsible frame, which are beams with cuts of equal height and width. |
| Fabric or polyethylene that creates shade. These materials are fixed on racks and look like an umbrella or canopy. | |
| In the form of a house, where there is a play area with stairs, a slide and a climbing wall. In this case, the sandbox is located under it or next to it. |
Wooden structures are traditional and familiar from childhood. They are made from natural wood or plywood.
Plastic and plastic structures are modern version sandboxes As a rule, they are purchased from finished form, since these materials are inconvenient for self-processing.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| High-quality and harmless plastic is used in the manufacture of these sandboxes. | Materials change their physical properties under the influence of direct sun rays and at low temperatures. In the first case, plastic and plastic may be susceptible to melting, in the second - increased fragility. |
| It does not require constant maintenance and periodic painting. | Over time, the color of these materials will fade. |
| This material is not afraid of precipitation. | |
| Installation of this structure is not difficult. | |
| Plastic is very lightweight material, so it is convenient to carry it if necessary. | |
| Structures made from these materials have bright and rich colors. |
Metal structures are less common, as they have more disadvantages than advantages.
Gallery of options
The lid has turned into another seating area 
This sandbox will be comfortable not only for children, but also for their parents. 
Excellent location under the play area, protects from sun or rain 
Option with additional space for games 
This sandbox has a smooth surface and is lightweight 
The red canopy easily turned into a cover 
Thanks to the removable fragments, this sandbox can be given any shape. 
This design will decorate the yard 
The height of this sandbox is convenient for games
Preparation: drawings, dimensions, diagrams
Before you start creating a sandbox, you need to carefully design everything construction stages. Even such a small design requires accurate calculations. By spending a little time on this, you will create a reliable and, most importantly, safe building for children. The drawing and diagram you created will help speed up the process of assembling the sandbox.
The most popular shape of this design is the square. To ensure that the sandbox is not bulky, its length and width are made in the range from 150x150 cm to 300x300 cm. These parameters and the form of manufacture are optional. The size of the side should be sufficient to hold sand inside and at the same time convenient for children to play. In this regard, the optimal height of the sandbox is from 30 to 40 cm. If the structure is made of wood, then this value is equal to the thickness of two or three boards.
An important point will be right choice sandbox locations. There are several criteria that meet this goal:
- the sandbox must be located in a visible place so that the child is always in your field of vision;
- it should not be in direct sunlight; it is better to install it under the shade of trees or on the veranda;
- the sandbox should not be located in close proximity to outbuildings, since nails, chips, glass or other construction debris may get into the playing area;
- There is no place for this structure near buildings where pets are kept - this increases the risk for the child of contracting infectious diseases;
- You cannot place a sandbox or any other play area under old trees.
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of the previously described materials for making a sandbox, you should focus on wooden structures. Wood is most suitable for these purposes. coniferous species, namely pine. This option is optimal when you compare its price and durability in use. It is not recommended to use spruce boards, as this material is prone to rotting. Can be built from weather-resistant wood such as oak or larch. However, using these materials to build a sandbox is very expensive, but again, it depends on your wishes and means.
Please note that before any construction work, the material of which is wood, it must be processed antiseptics and antifungal impregnations. This must be done when using any type of wood.
Special attention it is necessary to pay attention to the quality of the sand. Many people think that this is not important, but its composition, the size of grains of sand and the presence of impurities can affect the health of the child. To understand what filler is needed in the sandbox, it must meet the following requirements:
- Suitable for these purposes river sand, which at a minimum must be sifted and have approximately the same grain size.
- If we look at this issue in more detail, the scatter of small sand particles should be no more than half a millimeter. The permissible diameter of one grain of sand will be from 1.4 to 1.8 mm.
- Sand must combine the qualities of lightness and sufficient mass. It should be small to hold its shape when sculpting, but not so weightless that it rises under the influence of the wind, getting into the child’s eyes.
- The material should be pleasant to the touch.
- When buying sand, you need to choose options that have the appropriate quality certificate. Thanks to this, you will be sure that bulk material safe for children and does not contain harmful impurities.
Calculation of materials (with examples)
Since the sandbox structure is square, boards of the same size are needed for each side. For the side of the frame on one side, two boards with a section of 150x30 mm and a length of 1500 mm are required. For the four sides of the sandbox you will need: 2·4=8 boards 1500x150x30 mm. This design will have two benches located opposite each other, which can be transformed into a lid.
For one seat you need:
- The lower part and the base for fastening are 2 boards measuring 175x30 mm, 1500 mm long;
- The back of the bench is 2 boards measuring 200x30, 1500 mm long;
- Limiters - 2 boards measuring 60x30 mm, 175 mm long;
- Supports for the back of the bench - 2 boards measuring 60x30 mm, 700 mm long.
- 2 metal door hinges.
Since there are two lids, the entire quantity must be doubled, therefore:
- 2·2=4 boards measuring 1500x175x30 mm (for the bottom and base for fastening);
- 2·2=4 bars - 1500x200x30 mm (for the back of the bench);
- 2·2=4 limiters - 175x60x30 mm;
- 2·2=4 stops - 700x60x30 mm;
- 2·2=4 metal door hinges.
The wooden elements of the sides of the sandbox will be secured using beams with a section of 50x50 mm and a length of 700 mm. For one side you need 3 of these elements, respectively for the entire sandbox: 3·4 = 12 bars measuring 700x50x50 mm.
The base of the sandbox requires a waterproofing coating. Thick polyethylene is suitable as such. To find out the required amount of this material, you need to calculate its area. To do this, you need to multiply the width of the sandbox by its length: 150 cm·150 cm=225 cm². Since you will need to make small sides from polyethylene, you need to add 10 cm to each side.
To fill a structure with these parameters with sand, about two tons of bulk material are needed. Do exact calculation doesn't make sense since some people like a little sand and others will want their kids to build tall slides.
For processing joints wooden elements Sandboxes require a wood primer. The finished structure will need to be painted, so 1 can of oil or acrylic paint is enough.
Tools
To make a wooden sandbox with a lid you will need the following tools:
- Bayonet and shovel shovels.
- Hacksaw or jigsaw.
- Hammer.
- Screwdriver or screwdriver.
- Building level.
- Sanding machine or sandpaper.
- Brushes and roller for painting.
- Chisel.
- Electric drill.
- Square.
- Set of wood drills.
- Bolts with nuts.
- Self-tapping screws.
- Construction tape.
- Wooden stakes and cord.
Step-by-step instructions for making a sandbox with a bench lid with your own hands
- First you need to make markings on the site. For accuracy, it is convenient to use wooden pegs and a cord. To do this, you need to drive pegs along the intended perimeter and pull the cord. To ensure that the corners are even, use a tape measure and a square.
- Then, using a shovel, remove upper layer soil. The depth of the removed soil must be 30 cm. This small pit will ensure the stability of the sandbox structure. First of all, this is necessary in order to prevent the appearance of insects and rotting plants.
- Smooth its surface. Fill the pit with a mixture of sand and gravel to form a layer of 10 cm. Compact the inner surface of the pit. This layer will serve as a drainage layer, thanks to which water will not accumulate under the sandbox, but will be absorbed into the soil. To prevent water from accumulating around the sandbox after rain, you need to do a similar drainage layer along the perimeter of the structure. Make the width of the pillow from 40 to 50 cm.
- In the pit along its perimeter, dig 9 holes 40 cm deep, 10 to 15 cm in diameter. Cover the bottom of the holes with gravel and sand to create a layer 5 cm thick.
- Now you can move on to making the base of the sandbox. Place insulating material - polyethylene - at the bottom of the pit. Use a nail to make several holes in the coating. This is necessary so that moisture does not linger in the sand.
- Make a frame for the sandbox. To do this, it is necessary to make the sides of the structure from boards measuring 1500x150x30 mm. Each of the four sides of the sandbox looks like two boards of the specified size fixed on top of each other. There is no point in talking about methods of fastening wooden elements, since there are many of them. Only one rule should be taken into account - to fasten the sandbox parts, you must use only self-tapping screws, bolts, metal corners and plates. These fasteners are quite sufficient, since the sandbox frame will not be subject to significant loads. As a connecting part, use beams with a section of 50x50 and a length of 70 cm, which fasten the sides together internal corners structure and in the middle of each side.
- For these elements use bolts and nuts. To metal parts do not protrude outward, it is necessary to make holes using wood drills with a diameter larger than the nut. The said supports, like all wooden parts, previously underwent the procedure of impregnation with antifungal mixtures and antiseptic agents. At this stage, it is necessary to cover them with liquid bitumen as an additional insulating material.
- The result should be a structure on nine supports.
- Next, you need to secure the boards that serve as the basis for the lid, which transforms into a bench. To do this, parallel to the upper edge of the side, with the wide side, attach a board measuring 1500x175x30 mm to the screws.
- Attach door hinges to the indicated boards with self-tapping screws. They must be installed 30 cm from the edge, as shown in the image.
- Then, attach another board measuring 1500x175x30 mm to the hinges. Do the same with the loops on the opposite side.
- Now you need to attach the boards that will serve as the back of the bench. To do this, you need to install wooden parts measuring 1500x200x30, securing them with self-tapping screws.
- Attach the limiters to the base of the seat using self-tapping screws.
- Attach beams with a cross section of 700x60x30 mm to the boards that serve as the backs of the benches. They will serve as stops.
- The design of a wooden sandbox with a transforming lid is ready. You can install it in prepared holes by compacting them or cementing them.
Final finishing and nuances of use
Beginning Finishing work, you should first of all get rid of burrs and sharp protruding fragments in the wood. For this it is convenient to use grinding machine with replaceable discs that have coatings of different grain sizes. If you don’t find such a machine, you can do it just fine with a regular one. sandpaper. Particular attention should be paid to the corners of the structure. When all the external and internal surfaces of the sandbox have been sanded, it is necessary to treat the joints of the elements with a primer intended for wood. This must be done because over time, fragments of wood fibers on the edges of the boards can split, causing burrs to appear.
To further protect the wood from natural precipitation and give the sandbox a beautiful and finished look, you need to paint it. To make it look more creative, you can paint each board different colors or draw patterns on children's themes.
To cover the sandbox you can use oil and acrylic paints. In the latter case, it is necessary to apply a couple of layers of varnish to the sandbox, which must be on water based. It contains much less chemical substances, which is important for the health of our children.
When all surfaces have been treated and time has passed for them to absorb and dry, you can fill in the sand and delight the children with a new play area.
Video: How to make a wooden sandbox with a lid
By building a wooden sandbox with your own hands, you will give your children a little holiday. This design will not only decorate the yard, but will be a useful structure that will interest the kids at least for a while. Thanks to this building, you will not be distracted by looking after the children, and when they become adults, the sandbox can be turned into beautiful flower bed with flowers or a mini-garden.
The kids' favorite pastime is to tinker in the sand, building castles, digging passages, building Easter cakes. At this time, parents can relax on a bench or go about their business.
Not everyone can afford to buy a sandbox in a store. Many people are put off by the high price. It's much cheaper to build a cozy playing place on one's own. This way you can take into account all the wishes of the child and successfully fit the design into the surrounding environment.
Planning the sandbox wisely
The construction of a children's sandbox should be approached very responsibly, carefully thinking through the smallest details. After all, children are often defenseless and unaware of the impending danger. Keep a few things in mind:
- The building must be safe. No nicks or sharp edges. Remember that sand is an excellent reservoir of infections.
- Therefore, provide protective covers against birds and animals.
- Convenience has not yet been canceled. The dimensions of the box should correspond to the number and age of the players.
The location must be visible. On open space Without obstructions it is easier to keep an eye on the children.
Where should you not place the building?
It is not advisable to establish a children's area in low-lying areas. The soil in them retains moisture for a long time after rain or during snow melting. Sitting on unheated, cold sand, a child can catch a cold.
At the same time, it is undesirable to install the structure in open sunny places. The baby may get heatstroke. Shading can be created using a permanent canopy or a quick-release awning.
There should be no old, neglected trees around the sandbox. Otherwise, there is a risk that a strong gust of wind will bring down branches on the heads of small players.
If, however, the site is located near green spaces, constantly check their condition, trim the crown, and cut down the shoots.
Choosing material
You can create a sandbox with your own hands from both new and “junk” blanks. The most common material is natural wood. It is environmentally friendly, affordable, easy to process, and does not overheat in the sun. They're on the move edged boards, beams, small-diameter logs.
Metal frames are labor-intensive to manufacture, get hot in the sun and are prone to corrosion. Therefore, this option practically does not occur.
As for plywood and OSB boards, you can cut out shaped sides from them, turning the sandbox into a car, a ship, or a steam locomotive. But due to the presence of glue, formaldehyde evaporates, which is harmful to children's health. In addition, the material quickly swells from moisture.
From improvised means will do car tires. To do this, 3-4 tires are cut in half. The resulting halves are laid flat to each other, forming a closed figure.
Don't rush to get rid of plastic bottles. They are also suitable for work. For stability, bottle caps are nailed to the support board at a certain pitch. Bottles are screwed on top, tied together with wire passed in the forward and reverse directions. The finished sidewalls are dug into a small recess.
Determining the dimensions
The size of the sand clearing should be such that nothing interferes with the children while playing. You should focus on the number of children and their age:
- It will be difficult for children under 3 years old to step over a side with a height of 20 cm. If the child has already crossed this threshold, then the sides can be made a little higher - 30 cm.
- For one child, an area of 1.2 x 1.2 m is quite enough. If friends join him, then there may not be enough space. In such cases, it is better to expand the area to 1.7x1.7 m. The volume of backfill is chosen so that the child cannot reach the soil. On average, 1 ton of sand is consumed per standard box.
Preparing the foundation
Have an idea, but don't know how to make a sandbox? We offer a simple solution to the problem - an analysis of the main stages of construction. Suppose you need to get a sandbox 170x170x30 cm, where the last number means the height of the sides.
Work begins with preparing the base. Using pegs driven into the ground and a rope stretched along them, the perimeter of the site is placed. Armed with a shovel, dig a hole 25-30 cm deep. A depression of up to 70 cm is made within a radius of 25 cm from the center, which is covered with gravel, crushed stone and sand. This drainage well to remove excess moisture.
For the same purpose, the slopes of the pit should have slight slopes towards the central part. Polyethylene and geotextiles with drainage holes can be laid on the bottom.
We build the sides
To build the frame, you will need 4 boards 170x30x2.5 cm and 4 beams 5x5x45 cm. The lumber must be sanded and treated with impregnations to prevent rotting. Each block is dug 15-20 cm into the ground. Boards are nailed to the resulting marks with nails or self-tapping screws. That's it, the outline is ready!
To allow children to sit down, a bench made of boards attached flat to the sides is installed around the perimeter of the sandbox. You can also nail the seats into the corners of the sandbox.
Do you need a lid?
You can cover the structure from bad weather or animals with a tarpaulin, awning, or film. But a sandbox with a wooden lid looks more aesthetically pleasing. Even those who have no construction experience can do it themselves.
1 or 2 shields are assembled from the boards (single- and double-leaf varieties). The dimensions must match the dimensions of the structure. Door hinges are used to secure the doors to the frame, and handles are attached for ease of opening.
When open, the lid can serve as a convenient bench. This device can be easily opened by children 4-5 years old.
Escaping from the sun
In the photo of the sandbox for children you can see wooden mushroom canopies from the sun. They are decorative and functional - under the hat you can create a small table for storing toys.
The leg is installed in the soil to a depth of 0.7-1 m, after which it is filled with concrete. At the dacha, you can get by with a less labor-intensive and more mobile option - a folding umbrella.
DIY sandbox photo
The sandbox brings so much joy to children! But it’s very easy to build it yourself, you only need a little material, skill, imagination and skillful hands.
Theory
Sandbox placement
First you need to decide where to organize a cozy corner for your baby. When choosing a location, follow these rules:
- The sandbox should be located in plain sight so that adults can control baby's activities. There is no place for a children's play area behind a barn or tall bush.
- Think about shadows. The play corner must be arranged so that one half of it remains in the sun, and the other allows you to hide from the scorching rays. It’s good if a tree with a lush crown grows nearby.
- Or create a shadow yourself. Not on site tall trees or are you not ready to constantly sweep fallen leaves out of the sandbox? No problem: make a cute umbrella-shaped canopy.
Size and preparation of the sandbox base, protection from moisture
Anyone can make a children's sandbox with their own hands! If there are a lot of kids, then, of course, it should be more spacious. However, the most common are square structures measuring 1.7 x 1.7 m - both two-year-old toddlers and already grown-up tomboys will be comfortable here. It is not difficult to build such a structure. But first you need to mark the area and do basis. To do this, you need a cord, marking tape and pegs.
Preparation of the base is carried out in several stages:
- Fence the desired area around the perimeter.
- Remove the top layer of soil - about 30 cm is enough.
- In the center, dig a hole with a diameter of 40-50 cm and a depth of 60-70 cm, fill it with small bulk material, for example, crushed stone, and compact it. This is necessary to ensure that excess moisture does not accumulate in the sandbox.
- From the sides to the center, make a slope along which rainwater will flow.
- When everything is ready, you can begin building the base of the sandbox.
Sandbox base
Anyone can play this role dense material: polyethylene, plywood (just don’t forget to make holes in it, otherwise water will constantly accumulate in the sandbox), paving slabs. The main thing is to add a small layer of sand before laying the material.
DIY sandbox photo step by step
The base performs several important functions. Thus, it protects the play area from mice and insects that are not averse to settling in the sand. And film or plywood will help keep the sandbox clean, preventing earth and stones from getting into it.
Sandbox sides
It's time for the sides for the sandbox. They help mark the territory of the playground, prevent sand from crumbling, and are actively used by children as an “exhibition area” for Easter cakes or just for relaxation.
For the sides you will need:
- bars 45x5x5 cm;
- boards 150x30x2.5 cm (you can replace them with narrow blanks 10 cm wide);
- wide boards for horizontal benches.
DIY sandbox photo step by step
Since do-it-yourself wooden sandboxes are usually square, 4 pieces are required.
The material must be carefully processed, otherwise the wood will quickly deteriorate and children will get a few splinters. Take a grinder or electric drill, put on a sanding attachment and go over the boards for horizontal edges. It is not necessary to sand the remaining boards and bars, but it is necessary to cover them in several layers with drying oil or any antiseptic. Bitumen works great.
To obtain the base, the bars are dug into the corners of the future sandbox to a depth of approximately 15-20 cm. Boards are nailed to them. Finally, horizontal overlays are fixed around the perimeter.
Sandbox cover
An important design element is lid. In principle, you can do without it, but in this case, garbage, branches and leaves will constantly get into the sand, and animals will probably choose it as a toilet. Therefore, it is better to make a lid for the sandbox. This role may include:
Sandbox decoration
The children's sandbox with their own hands is ready, but will the child be interested if you leave it without decorations? You can simply paint the structure in any color or draw an ornament on it, various pictures, letters, funny faces - whatever you want!
The final “touch” is filling the sandbox. Usually, high-quality river or quartz bulk material is used for this, in which insects will be uncomfortable, and children, on the contrary, will be safe and fun!
DIY sandbox photo
Let's move on to practice
Sandbox materials and sizes
DIY sandbox photo step by step
So, you've decided that your child needs a sandbox. You don’t have to do it yourself: now any children’s goods store sells ready-made structures that just need to be installed in the chosen location. But this product is expensive, and it’s more pleasant to make a playground with your own hands. Moreover, it is easy to find hundreds of photographs on the Internet that will inspire and help you easily decide on the materials and sizes of the sandbox.
Find boards before you start required sizes and good polish them so that children do not get splinters. The width of the workpieces should not be less than 30 mm.
Now draw up a drawing, choosing the location of the playground and deciding on the size. Typically, sandboxes are made in the form of a square with a side of 1.5-2 m. Sufficient depth is 20-30 cm.
DIY sandbox. Drawing
How to make a children's sandbox?
When the materials are ready, it’s time to start creating a wooden sandbox with your own hands. It's not difficult at all if you follow the instructions:
Define place for the playground. As mentioned above, the sandbox should be installed so that children do not suffer from hot sun rays and are visible. An open area is not suitable - choose a corner under a spreading tree that provides enough shade. And don’t forget: the site must be clearly visible.
If the shade is not enough, docanopy. It will perfectly protect both from the scorching rays of the sun and from rain if it suddenly catches the kids while playing, and, in addition, will increase the service life of the sandbox.
Treat the woodantiseptic composition, which will not allow the material to rot and suffer from insect attacks. The sandbox is located outside, so the protection must be of high quality, otherwise precipitation will quickly render the boards unusable.
Prepare the surface and do base for the sandbox. It should be such as to prevent the penetration of insects and rodents, as well as the mixing of sand with soil. Agrofibre, which is attached to the boards using a regular furniture stapler, is good for this purpose.
DIY sandbox photo step by step
Install sides sandbox, connecting the boards with self-tapping screws. This is the most convenient and affordable option fastenings, which will give the structure the necessary strength. Even constant pressure mass of sand will not be able to deform it.
Secure wide horizontal boards around the perimeter of the playground so that children can rest while playing. You can also sit on comfortable benches with backrests that can be easily installed on both sides of the structure.
To understand how to make a sandbox with your own hands and find answers to all questions that may arise during the process, it is better to watch a video with explanations of all stages of installation. You might find some ideas for different sandboxes made by yourself useful.
A simple do-it-yourself sandbox made from large logs
The design is slightly reminiscent traditional log house. Whole logs were used as walls, wide boards covered with light paint and used as benches were fixed on both sides. Flooring became an excellent base that prevented soil from getting into the sand.
Transformable sandbox with folding lid
Perhaps the most practical and interesting option. It is done like this:
- As with a regular sandbox, a box is assembled from prepared boards.
- Materials for the lid are being prepared: 12 narrow boards (6 on each side) and hinges - standard door hinges and with one long shelf (4 pieces each).
- Two boards are nailed to the finished box on both sides.
Short shelves of hinges are attached to the resulting parts of the future lid, and the next pair of boards is screwed to the long ones. Keep in mind: the size of the workpieces should be such that the long loop covers no less than half the width. This is necessary for structural strength.
The next board is attached using a regular loop, so that the shelves remain on the other side. To install the second workpiece, you will need a small block, which is stuffed on both sides, spaced approximately 15 cm from the edge.
On the first pair of boards, a suitable piece of wood is stuffed, which will not allow the lid to sag and put pressure on the hinges when folded down.
It turns out to be an interesting do-it-yourself sandbox with a lid, which all that remains is to paint. Even at the preparation stage, you can use a special impregnation that not only protects the wood, but also gives it a particular shade. The paint can be anything, the main thing is that it is intended for outdoor use and does not deteriorate under the influence of the sun and precipitation. Use your imagination and turn the sandbox into a little miracle for your child!
To make the play area even more practical, we recommend using the space under the seats to store toys, partitioning off the space like a compartment. Anyway, children mostly play in the center of the structure, and they can save on sand.
Do-it-yourself sandbox-boat
A wonderful option for little tomboys is a sandbox-boat. Probably every boy dreams of going sailing at least once in his life, so why not give him such an opportunity? How to build a sandbox with your own hands:
A regular square base with low sides is constructed.
Two blanks are driven into the ground near one of the sides of the hull, to which boards for the “nose” of the future ship are attached. It is made in the form of a triangle with sides whose height should be noticeably higher than the main part. The corners of the boards must be fastened by driving nails diagonally.
We make a ladder of 2-3 steps so that the child can easily move from the sandbox itself to the “nose” and back.
The top of the triangle is sewn up with boards.
The decor is being built and additional accessories: equipment, masts, etc. The resulting boat is painted.
If desired, the design can be supplemented extension, which is installed on the other side of the sandbox. It is made from beams that are driven into the ground as pillars, and sheets of plywood. In such a house it is convenient to store toys and play a variety of games.
DIY sandbox truck. Step by step photos
The playground is a favorite place to play for kids. For adults it will not be special labor make it bright and cozy. For example, it’s not at all difficult to make it yourself interesting element- a sandbox in the shape of a truck, which will bring a lot of joy to the children.
What you will need
Any important undertaking begins with planning. To create a sandbox, you need to prepare materials and design the structure.
For this you will need:
- sheet of plywood 1.5x1.5 m thick 1.8 cm (several sheets);
- fastening elements (self-tapping screws, screws, metal corners);
- jigsaw;
- slate pencil, drawing instruments, whatman paper;
- primer;
- exterior paint;
- unnecessary car parts (steering wheel, wheels, toggle switches, headlights, etc.)
Manufacturing process
The sandbox in the form of a truck consists of two large parts - the cabin and the body. They can be made from 13 parts:
- Body side (2 pcs.)
- Hood
- Front
- Body seat
- Body seat bottom
- Side with doorway (2 pcs.)
- Steering wheel panel
- Roof
- Cabin seat
- Bottom of cabin seat
- Back wall
DIY sandbox drawings. Photo
In order not to make mistakes with the calculations, it would be advisable to first draw sketches of the parts on paper and find their optimal location on the plywood. Then transfer the image to wood and cut along the lines with a jigsaw.
Using fasteners, we assemble the structure, process the edges and protruding parts to avoid injury to children.
Since the sandbox in the form of a truck will be used in street conditions and exposed to weather conditions, it should be treated. To do this, the entire surface is first coated with a primer, followed by a second layer of exterior paint.
DIY sandbox truck. Step-by-step instructions with photos
All that remains is to add realism to the truck by installing a steering wheel, switches, and you can also attach real wheels and headlights.
Thus, it will only take a few hours to make a sandbox with your own hands. And how many happy minutes will happy children spend in it?
Sandboxes with canopy. Photo
A sandbox with a canopy is very practical and decorative. There are many options for execution:
Simple wooden structure with benches around the perimeter and a fabric canopy. To construct it, holes are made in wide horizontal boards on both sides of the sandbox, through which long thin slats pass, serving as the base. The roof is attached to them.
Sandbox with canopy. Photo
The sandbox is shaped not like a square, but like a boat. To do this, two boards connected by a triangle are attached to one side at once. The steering wheel is placed in the “bow”. The fabric canopy is installed on four supports.
Sandbox in the form of a house: foundations are placed in the corners wooden poles, mounted on them gable roof with a carved ridge and other decorations. An interesting effect is created by the sides of the structure, which are made not from boards, but from many bars placed in a picket fence.
Sandbox with a roof. Photo
Another boat. As in the option above, a base of the appropriate shape is made, a fabric triangular canopy is installed (two supports are driven in on the sides near the “nose”, and another one in the center of the board on the opposite side). A “captain's bridge” with a steering wheel is being built.
A laconic do-it-yourself sandbox with four supports, on which a waterproof fabric is stretched on top so that the edges are formed into sides. You can make a lid from the same material: you just need to stretch the fabric, tying it to the pillars in the corners. 
A playground with supports driven into the corners, on which a wooden gable roof is installed. At a small height, wide boards are attached between two pillars opposite each other, acting as benches. 
Little children love to play in the sand. To provide them with this opportunity, caring adults install sandboxes at home and in the country. Of course, there are ready-made ones for sale, but their price is not at all childish. The best way out- a sandbox made by yourself. When making it, you will certainly try to take into account all the characteristics and preferences of your child.
What can you make a sandbox out of?
The most popular material for building a children's sandbox is wood. These can be edged boards, small diameter logs, timber, block house. This is basically what they make from. To make the work go faster, you can buy polished materials. They are more expensive, but have a smooth surface. If you need to save money, take it ordinary materials, then manually or using a grinder you will bring everything to perfect condition.
You can use plywood (moisture resistant) or OSB (OSB). Not everyone likes them, due to the presence of glue and harmful fumes (formaldehyde). But in air these emissions are not dangerous, and you can also use material with emission class E0 or E1. It guarantees safety - children's furniture is made from this material. It is convenient to work with plywood and OSB: you cut out the parts of the required shape, twist them together, process the ends and you can paint them.
At the dacha, you can use improvised material. For example, plastic bottles. Just so that they stick, they are attached to the board: the lids are nailed at a certain pitch, bottles are screwed into them. Having received one “sidewall”, take a piece of thick wire equal to twice the length of the sidewall + 20 cm, pierce the bottles with the wire, retreating about 5-7 cm from the bottom, turn the wire upward and pierce it in the opposite direction from above. The ends are twisted, trying to hide the “tails”.
This is how it will be necessary to “stitch” the bottles with wire
This twist is obtained only on one side - on the other there is simply a bent wire. When you install the sides, place them so that the “tails” are covered by the bottle. The finished sides of the sandbox made from bottles are installed in a shallow ditch, the board and the tapering bottom of the bottles are sprinkled with soil, and compacted well. You can throw a sheet of plywood at the bottom, and pour sand on top.
The second most popular “waste” material for country houses. They also make sandboxes. It is necessary to cut off the side panel on one side old tire. You will get quite high sides. Then there are two ways:
In any case, the cuts will have to be secured. Some tires have plastic cord (reinforcing fiber), some have metal. The plastic one can be sanded, but the metal one will have to be covered somehow.
To make a sandbox, you can use fallen tree trunks cut into pieces. They make a very interesting and quite reliable fence. Before digging in, the wood needs to be treated so that it lasts longer. There are modern impregnations with a simultaneous tinting effect. Comfortable. The treated stumps must be dried, and while they are drying, dig a ditch around the perimeter of the future sandbox. Its depth is at least 20-25 cm. There is no need to do less - the children will walk and jump on the stumps, so they must hold up well. Insert the logs into the ditch, level them, fill the gaps with soil and compact them well.
You can also make a fence for a traditional sandbox from logs. Place a base on the ground: a piece of linoleum, for example, with several holes in it to drain water after rain. Place logs on the base, making a rectangle/square out of them. They can be fastened with long nails, but more securely with studs - steel rods with threads at both ends. Under them, you will need to drill a hole diagonally at the junction of the logs. Diameter - slightly larger diameter hairpins. Drill out the edges of the hole so that you can recess the nuts and washers. Insert a rod into the hole, put washers on both ends, and tighten everything with nuts.
You can make benches on top - one or two boards and benches for kids are ready. Of course, they rarely sit on them. More often they build their sand castles on them.
How to make a sandbox: step-by-step instructions
First, let's look at general principles manufacturing sandboxes of any design. With some modifications they are repeated every time.
Step one. Selecting a location . The location must be chosen so that part of the sandbox is in the shade, part in the sun. If this is not possible, we put it in a sunny place and make a canopy over it. Please make sure that there are no large trees or bushes nearby. They, of course, provide good shade, but leaves fall off them, and the sand will have to be sifted often.
Do not place the sandbox in strong sun, nor should it be in a corner where there is no air movement at all. But it also has no place in a draft. Another important point: if you plan to let your baby out to play in the yard on his own, the place for playing should be clearly visible from the window of the room where you spend most of the time.
Step two. Marking . If the sandbox is rectangular, use pegs and threads stretched between them. We drove the pegs, measuring the required dimensions ( standard size children's sandbox for children from 2 to 5 years old - 1.7 m * 1.7 m). Twine, rope, and cord were pulled between them. We checked the diagonals; for the angles to be right, they must be equal.
If the sandbox has rounded corners or sides, you can draw an arc using sand poured into a bag. A small hole is cut in the corner of the bag and in this way the required shape is “drawn”.
Step 3. We are digging a pit. We remove the sod and take it to the side, remove some soil, cleaning out the roots as we go, removing stones. The depth of the pit is 20-30 cm.
Let's start earthworks - digging a pit
In the middle of the sandbox, make a small square of greater depth: with a side of about 60 cm and a depth of another 30-40 cm (the total depth of this hole will be 60-70 cm). Pour crushed stone into the hole. This will be the “water drainage system”. If you form a small slope from the edges to it, the sand will dry quickly after rains.
Step 4. Laying the base.
Add a little sand (5-6 cm) to the bottom of the resulting pit, leveling it well. Now you need to lay the foundation. Most the best option— . This is a non-woven material that is very tear resistant. It will not allow grass to sprout and will not allow sand to mix with the soil. If you bring it to the edges of the pit, it will also “hold” the earth, preventing it from flowing inside when it rains.
If geotextiles are not found, you can lay a piece of plywood or linoleum. You just need to cut a few holes in them (1.5-2 cm in diameter) for water to drain.
DIY sandbox: step-by-step photo reports
No matter how simple the design may seem, when it comes to implementation, questions arise. To make there fewer of them, we publish several models of homemade sandboxes with step by step photos, capturing the main nodes.
Simple design
The simplest thing you can do is knock down a rectangle or square from the boards. For a sandbox, the normal side of a square is 1.7 m. So you will need 4 or 8, 12 boards of this length. Make the sizes larger or smaller - the choice is yours. The number of rows of boards depends on their width and how tall you want it to be.
If, as described earlier, you dug a pit 25 cm deep, then poured in 5 cm of sand, you get a 20 cm deepening. If you want the sides to protrude 10 cm from the ground (for 2-year-old children this is convenient, for older ones it can be from 20 cm and above), the total height is 30 cm. If the board is 10 cm wide, you will need 3 tiers (boards, respectively 3 rows * 4 pcs = 12 pcs).
You will also need a block with a cross section of 40*40 mm. It will need to be cut into pieces equal to the height of the sides of the sandbox. In our case it is 30 cm. You will need 4 pieces. The total length of the required timber is 1.2 m. All lumber is sanded well, then impregnated with protective impregnations, otherwise the wood will quickly lose its appearance.
We take two boards and fold them at an angle of 90°. We place a block at the joint, nail both boards or screw in self-tapping screws - two for each fastening. We attach the next board to one of the ends, place the block and repeat the operation. This is how we assemble the first row. It will look like in the photo on the left.
The second and third rows are assembled in a similar way. For each connection we place two hardware (nails or self-tapping screws). Just make sure that the heads do not protrude and the points do not stick out.
After the required height has been collected, we can consider that the sandbox is made with our own hands. But, as always, now I want to add something to make it more convenient for the children. They usually like to make Easter cakes, and they need a platform for them. You can nail small triangles made of plywood or also assembled from cut boards in the corners. Another option is to nail two longitudinal boards. They fit perfectly on the bars in the corners. We hammer nails into them.
Adding comfort
Continuing the theme of “improving” sandboxes. Carrying toys home that are stained with sand every time is not very pleasant. The problem can be solved simply: fence off the part for toys. Convenient for both you and the child. An additional wall is installed, which is also attached to the existing ones using bars.
Separate the compartment for toys - put an additional wall
And to avoid the temptation to pour sand in there, you can come up with a lid. You can sit on it, or you can build Easter cakes.
A couple of boards, a little imagination and an ordinary box turns into a car. The boys will definitely like this one.
Transformable sandbox with folding lid
Construction begins in exactly the same way as described earlier: a box of boards is assembled. The trick is in the design of the lid. You will also need boards for the lid and hinges - four regular door ones and four with one long shelf.
In our example, there were 6 boards on each side of the lid. They were attached in pairs. First, two boards were nailed to the finished box on one side and the other.
A short shelf of a loop, similar to a barn one, was screwed to them. Two boards were also attached to the long shelf. It is important that the second one is attached at least half the width, otherwise it can be twisted.
We screw the following board onto regular door hinges. The shelves are on the other side. Then it turns out that the second part of the lid tilts in the other direction. The second board is attached to the fixed one using an auxiliary block. It is stuffed on both sides at a distance of about 15 cm from the edge.
To prevent the folded lid from pressing on the hinges, an additional piece of board is stuffed onto the first two boards. It serves as a support; when loaded, the board does not bend.
Based on operating experience, we can say that children almost never play under the seats: it’s uncomfortable. To use this area more efficiently, it can be fenced off as a compartment for toys. Another advantage of this solution is that less sand will be required.
IN in this example The docks are painted with an impregnation, which at the same time gives color to the wood. If desired, you can use regular opaque paint. Only take it for wood, for outdoor use. Otherwise, after a couple of rains, it will bubble or crack. Using paint, you can paint the sandbox in more “girlish” colors, although impregnations can also be different color, but they just give a tint.
Sandbox-boat
For boys you can make a sandbox-boat or ship. The main “body” is built as usual, all other superstructures are attached to it.
In this version, it was decided to make the sandbox low. A triangle was attached to the downed hull - the bow of the future ship. It is significantly higher than the main part. To ensure that the boards hold tightly, two boards are driven into the ground 60 cm deep on each side. The boards were nailed to them. In the corners they are also fastened, but only to each other - with nails (they were hit diagonally).
Since the height difference turned out to be significant, a staircase was made from the “deck” to the bow. The top is covered with boards and the masts are reinforced.
All that remains is finishing work and equipment. After some time, it was decided to build an extension at the stern - a place to hide from the sun, and put a toy box there. They installed poles made of timber and covered them with plywood cut to size. In the final version the ship looked like this.
Another boat was built using approximately the same technology.
Awnings
It is not always possible to place a sandbox in partial shade. More often they place it in the sun, and then provide shading - some kind of canopy or umbrella. There are many interesting designs of such canopies that are quick and easy to make.
Perhaps the easiest to implement is this canopy: two posts are attached in the middle, with a crossbar between them. A thick tan is thrown over the crossbar and attached to the driven loops.
This canopy isn't much more complicated. Four racks are required. They are connected at the top by strips - they make the top trim. The awning is sewn to size and stretched. You can fasten it either with buttons or with decorative nails. The main thing is to have the opportunity to remove it in the fall.
Making such a roof is a little more difficult. Triangles are attached to the upper trim of the racks - rafter system. They are connected at the top longitudinal beam, which is correctly called “ridge”, and props are placed in the middle. Under soft tiles, which is used in this case, plywood or OSB is nailed, and roofing material is already laid on top.
Pay attention also to the decor of the sandbox itself: birch logs are driven/dug in around the perimeter, which are covered from the inside with boards: so that the peeling bark does not fall into the sand. Quite an interesting solution.
Another simple sun shade for the sandbox. The two triangles are connected by thin strips. They are attached to the racks, but it is advisable to make the racks more solid. For small children, this section is enough, but for older children - from 4 years old - something more solid is required - at least 60 * 60 cm. To save money, you can sew two boards - nail them on both sides. Pulling the awning will not be difficult.
How to make a sandbox with a “fungus” with a small wooden canopy - watch the video
Lids
The second attribute necessary for sandboxes is lids. Not only do leaves fall into the sand and all sorts of garbage gets into the sand, but animals also love to be there...being there. You can prevent attacks on the purity of the sand by using a lid. In the simplest version, it is a shield made of boards or cut out of plywood, to which handles are attached.
Cover made of boards
To avoid having to remove and install the panels every time, you can attach hinges, and to prevent the doors from hanging, weld handles on which they can rest. When the lid is folded back, you get two small play areas. Children can sit on them or build their own sand castles. Therefore, it is more convenient to make such covers from plywood: there are no cracks and they are lighter in weight.
There are even more interesting design— away. This type of cover is definitely made from plywood. Nail the top bar so that there is a gap left. A sheet of plywood is inserted into it. And so that the opposite end does not dangle, legs are nailed - small pieces of timber.
The same principle is implemented differently in the version in the photo below. It is already for those who are good at carpentry.
Blueprints
To build a sandbox with your own hands quickly and easily, all that remains is to provide you with a few drawings. You can build on them and take them as a basis. Adjustments can and should be made.
Sandbox with roof - photo and drawing
The construction of a full-fledged children's playground begins with the sandbox, consisting of many elements (slides, swings, houses), which will be added as the child grows older.
According to parents, the sandbox is a place for games where you can keep your child occupied for a long time. Psychologists say that the sandbox for children plays important role: hand motor skills develop, creative abilities are formed, perseverance and patience are demonstrated.
Before you figure out how to build a children's sandbox in the country, you need to familiarize yourself with what types, types there are and choose suitable option for specific conditions.
Types of children's sandboxes for the garden
Sandboxes for children come in two varieties:
1. By design feature:
- open sandbox (easy-to-make design);
- closed sandbox. Popular among users because it allows you to protect the sand from: debris, rain, wind, animals. In addition, a children's sandbox with a lid protects the sand from weathering, allows you to store toys under the lid (children's equipment: beads, scoops, shovels, rakes, etc.), and can also serve as an additional play area (if it is transformed into a table and chairs ).
2. According to the material of manufacture:
- plastic, metal, wood
Each of the materials has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic sandbox
It does not overheat in the sun, has a compact size, is lightweight, easy to move, transport, and can be hidden in an outbuilding or garage when you are away. Disadvantages include instability to ultraviolet radiation and high cost.
Metal sandbox
Provides long-term use, but is not safe for children, and is also susceptible to corrosion and labor-intensive to manufacture.
Wooden sandbox
The best option, since wood is environmentally friendly, safe and affordable.
Therefore, let's look at how to build a children's sandbox out of wood - independent technology using available materials (means). Let's start with the open one, since this is the most easily implemented option for beginners without construction experience. Manufacturing will take only a few hours, and if you have a competent drawing, the lid can be attached to it at any time.
How to make a sandbox with your own hands - step-by-step instructions
Stage 1 – Drawing of a wooden sandbox
Despite the fact that the design is simple, a detailed diagram of the sandbox allows you to rationally calculate the amount of material and choose the right place for installation.
Often, a wooden sandbox is a square of a given height that protects the sand from spreading.
Sandbox drawings (for a simple design) are given below.
The design can be more complex: including chairs, benches, tables, a lid, a roof, a slide, etc. or a sandbox made in the form of a car (automobile), a boat-ship, a house-castle.
The diagram below gives an idea of what a sandbox in the form of a machine (sandbox-machine) consists of.
Anyway, functional purpose The basic design is the same - a fence protecting the sand.
Advice. When planning the construction of a sandbox, you should consider how many children it will be designed for.
Stage 2 – Material for the sandbox
The table lists building materials with dimensions and quantities for making a simple sandbox with dimensions 1500x1500 mm, height 300 mm.
| Lumber | Purpose | Quantity | Note | |
| Beam 50*50*450 | Corner element | 4 things. | Beam 150 mm. treated with an antiseptic | |
| Board 30*150*1600 | Side walls of the sandbox | 8 pcs. | Carefully sanded and coated with wood primer. | |
| Board 30*150*1600 | Sides for sitting, folding toys, etc. | 4 things. | Sanded and coated with wood primer. | |
| Wood screws, 45 mm. | For fastening | 50 pcs. | ||
| Geotextiles | For the bottom | 2 rolls | Can be replaced with film | |
| Antiseptic | For wood processing | |||
| Primer for wood | To protect wood | |||
| Dye | For coloring | 1 can (1 liter) | Oil or acrylic | |
| For a closed sandbox (with a lid) you will additionally need | ||||
| Beam 30*30*1600 | 2 pcs. | The timber is cut into pieces depending on the width of the lid | ||
| Board 20*125*1600 or plywood, 18 mm. | 12 pcs. sheet | |||
| Piano hinges (awnings) | 4 things. 8 pcs. |
for hinged lid for a cover transforming into seats |
||
| Pens | 2 pcs. | |||
Material prepared for the website www.site
- the length of the beam depends on the height of the sandbox, which in turn is determined by the age of the child. The height of the sandbox should be such that the child can step over it. Optimal height– 300 mm (150 mm remains for digging and fixing the structure).
- The thickness of the boards must be at least 30 mm. This will ensure sufficient structural strength and protect the wood from cracking.
- plywood is indispensable in the manufacture of complex structures, such as, for example, a sandbox in the shape of a ship. Round and oval shaped products are made from it.
- It is better to treat the boards before installation. This way, there will be no unprotected parts of the lumber left.
Tool: saw, Sander, drill, drill bits, screwdriver, pencil, tape measure, level, pegs and rope, paint brushes.
Stage 3 – Marking the space for the sandbox
a location for installation is selected. The outer perimeter of the structure is marked with stakes and rope;
Inside the outlined square, soil is selected to a depth of 300-400 mm. You can do without this and pour sand on top of the ground, but it will quickly become unusable because it will mix with the ground during the game. In addition, ants and other insects can live in it;
drainage is arranged - a tightly compacted cushion of crushed stone/gravel and sand. The cushion will allow water to flow freely into the ground and the sand to dry out faster. Additionally, users recommend laying geotextile; it does not interfere with water flow, but protects the sand below from insects or moles.
Advice. When using polyethylene, you need to drill holes in it for water drainage.
Many users complain that puddles appear around the sandbox after rain. This can be eliminated by arranging a cushion and, behind the perimeter of the sandbox, drainage laid at a depth of 400-500 mm. around the sandbox will allow water to quickly drain down.
Stage 4 – Making a children's sandbox with your own hands
Brief construction technology:
- At the corners marked with a rope, stakes are driven in - the support of the future sandbox;
- one board coated with an antiseptic is installed on each side;
- then the second row of boards is nailed;
- to arrange the seats, treated boards are installed horizontally on the top of the structure (2 sec. opposite sides, 4 on each side) or plywood corners - the most budget option.
Advice. It is important to ensure that the screw heads are securely recessed into the wood and do not cause injury.
The second option is how to make a sandbox out of wood
The method involves a slightly different order of work, namely: first making a sandbox, then preparing the installation site and further installing the sandbox. This option is convenient when the work is carried out together, because The design, although lightweight, is quite cumbersome and it is inconvenient to install it in this order alone.
Step-by-step instructions for making a sandbox with your own hands (master class) are shown in the photo.
Stage 5 – Making a lid for the sandbox
Since a children's sandbox with a lid for a summer house is a more attractive option, let's look at how to make a lid for a sandbox.
The most simple option there will be a removable cover, which will be a shield knocked together from boards, but it significant drawback consists in the need to remove the lid before playing.
Therefore, it is more expedient to make a design with two doors that transform (open and fold) into seats. The photo below shows two options for constructing a lid for a sandbox - a folding one and one that transforms into a seat. Please note that the two outer boards on both sides are stationary. They are securely fixed, this will allow a child and even an adult to sit on the lid without fear of breaking it.
Sandbox option with awning (soft cover, rollable)
Stage 6 – Installation of a roof for the sandbox
Considering that children want to play in the sand at any time of the day, care must be taken to protect them from direct sunlight. To do this, you need to install a canopy over the sandbox. This can be a beach umbrella or a stationary roof made in the form of a fungus/canopy.
Stage 7 – Sand for the children's sandbox
How to choose sand for a sandbox?
It should be noted that GOST (18322-78 (ST SEV 5151-85) and GOST R 52301-2004) regulate the requirements for the maintenance of playground equipment, but do not contain recommendations regarding sand, except that certificates must be provided when selling sand.
However, users have determined what kind of sand is needed for the sandbox and have the following requirements for it:
- absence of foreign impurities/objects;
- good flowability;
- dustlessness. Small particles of sand (fractions less than 0.1 mm) can get into the child’s lungs. To eliminate them, sand is usually washed and dried or sifted through a very fine sieve;
- formability (fits well into beads);
- humidity. The sand must be dry;
- hygiene. The sand should not contain living creatures (bugs, spiders, worms, etc.).
Which sand is best for a sandbox
When choosing sand, it is better to give preference to:
- river, not quarry. It is purer in itself;
- sifted, not containing foreign objects;
- quartz sand - perfect option. It's clean and molds well.
Ready-made sand for children's sandboxes can be bought in the store. The presence of a quality certificate guarantees its purity and absence of impurities.
How much sand do you need in a sandbox?
In order to fill a sandbox measuring 1500x1500 mm. you need to prepare about 0.5 cubic meters. sand
The average price per bag (25 kg) of sand for a children's sandbox is shown in the table.
DIY children's wooden sandbox - video
How and where to install a children's sandbox correctly
To ensure that the sandbox lasts a long time and does not pose a threat to children, you need to follow several recommendations when making and installing it:
- do not use metal elements;
- do not leave boards unsanded;
- provide shade;
- place in a clearly visible place;
- ensure the absence of thorny bushes, honey plants and allergens;
- use quality wood and other building elements;
- provide reliable fastening;
- absence electrical wiring, hoses, pipes, etc.
Conclusion
A wooden sandbox with a lid or an open one is an opportunity not only to please your child, but also to show your creativity. A sandbox in the form of a table, car, hexagonal or round will not only delight the child, but will also allow him to decorate country cottage area extraordinary, creative design.