Mid-century Modern PLANT STAND

Prop up your houseplants in style

- Ellen Kaspern

I've always been drawn to the clean lines, gentle curves, and obvious functionality of mid-century modern furniture. This plant stand incorporates all three attributes in its simplicity and usefulness. I designed it as a teaching tool for the two basic woodworking joints it includes: the mortise and tenon and the lap joint. The project is easy enough for a beginner to make in a day while learning valuable woodworking skills and getting time on two of the most-used shop machines: the table saw and the router table. And even if you're an experienced woodworker, the aesthetically pleasing stand will look good in any home. As shown, the design fits a 10" round planter, but you can adapt the dimensions to fit nearly any size pot.

Simple connections for a strong base

The plant stand, made from mahogany, consists of four legs with two rails crossing between. The rails connect to the legs with mortise & tenon joints and have a lap joint in the center where they intersect. The legs are rounded on their outer edges to soften their look and add a touch of flair. The dimensions are based on a 10" tall planter, 10" in diameter. Purchase the planter first so you can adapt the dimensions as necessary.

Order of Work

• Mill the legs and rails

• Rout the mortises

• Cut the half laps and tenons

• Assemble and finish

online EXTRA

Go online for a full cut list.

*Dimension shown for 10" pot, size rail to fit your pot.

**Size legs so that pot sits about 1" higher than legs.

Make the parts and rout the mortises