Outdoor Entertaining: How to Construct a Versatile Cinder Block Bar

Mitch Couch
by Mitch Couch

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! Are you ready for an exciting journey into the world of garden crafts? Get your hands dirty and join me as I dive into a step-by-step tutorial on building your very own cinder block bar and planter stand.


In this guide, we'll explore a clever cinder block idea for your backyard and take you through each stage of building this versatile piece of homemade garden furniture.

This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

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This cinder block project is not only a functional addition to your backyard but also a fantastic way to showcase your gardening skills.


So grab your tools, put on your creative hat, and let's bring your outdoor DIY project to life, one cinder block at a time!

Tools and Materials:

Clearing the ground of rocks for the cinder block bar and planter stand

1. Preparing the Ground for Our Cinder Block Table Idea

To start off, we need to clear the area by removing any big flat rocks. This will create a solid base for our Garden planter stand.

Removing loose debris to create a clean base for your outdoor DIY project

Also, don't forget to get rid of any loose debris. A trusty rake will come in handy for scraping it all to the sides.

Digging out sandy soil to create a sturdy foundation for your garden craft

Grab a shovel and remove the sandy soil from the area. We want to reach a firmer base for our cinder block bar project. Simply set aside the soil you remove and dig down a bit. If necessary, you can add gravel, but I found the ground to be pretty solid already.

Achieving a level and even surface for the landscaping project

Take a small two-by-four and use it as a screed to level the soil. Just go back and forth with it, ensuring a nice and even surface.

Affordable and creative outdoor gardening project using cinder blocks

Once you have cleared and leveled the area, use a level tool to double-check that everything is nice and straight.

DIY outdoor decor - Building a stylish and functional planter stand

2. Placing the First Blocks of Our Cinder Block Bar

Now it's time to lay down the foundation for our cinder block planter stand. Place the first cinder block and give it a little shake to ensure it feels firm. Next, position the second block right next to it, making sure it is level.

How to make a homemade plant display with cinder blocks

Feel free to add more soil or adjust as needed. If you accidentally dig too deep, add sand gradually, packing it down each time.

Creating visual interest by alternating cinder blocks

3. Building Up Our Cinder Block Project

Here's where things get interesting. See how that third cinder block sticks out? We're going to keep repeating this pattern as we go. Remember, this is your project, so make it as big as you desire!

Ensuring the base layer is level

Once the base is complete, place a two-by-four across the top and ensure it is level. A solid foundation sets the stage for success.

Applying construction adhesive

4. Adding Strength and Stability with Adhesive

Now, it's time to enhance the stability of our structure. Apply a moderate amount of construction adhesive to prevent the bricks from sliding or breaking. Use just enough to hold everything securely in place.

Step-by-step guide to building a DIY cinder block planter stand

5. Continuing the Construction of Our Cinder Block Idea

Moving on, let's add another cinder block. However, this time, let it hang over just a little bit. Trust me, there's a method to this madness, and I'll explain it later. Apply adhesive, attach the block, and keep repeating this process.

Continuing the construction by adding more blocks

As you progress, remember to keep adding adhesive between the blocks.

Adding a sturdy and stylish redwood board as the finishing touch

6. Adding the Perfect Finishing Touch

Once you've reached your desired height, ensure everything is level and even. Take a moment to appreciate your hard work!


Now, cut a sizeable piece of redwood board that fits on top. Place it on the blocks, add adhesive underneath, and fit it in place.

Bringing life and color to your cinder block bar and planter stand with beautiful flowers

7. Planting Flowers in Our DIY Cinder Block Planter Stand

Let's bring some life to our creation! Head to your local hardware store and grab some beautiful flowers. Before planting them, gently separate the roots and use quality potting soil. Better soil leads to better growth.

Creating a stunning display of potted flowers

Slide the pots into the cavities between the blocks, allowing them to conform to the shape. Repeat this process until you've filled all the gaps. Remember, don't overcrowd; just slide them down snugly.

Creative landscaping ideas - Cinder block bar and planter

Enhance Your Outdoor Space With a DIY Cinder Block Bar and Flower Pot Stand

Congratulations on completing your DIY cinder block bar and planter stand! You've not only created a functional and stylish addition to your outdoor space but also unleashed your creativity and showcased your knack for outdoor DIY projects.


This unique project seamlessly combines the fun of a bar with the beauty of a planter stand, giving you the opportunity to elevate your entertaining game while adding a touch of charm to your backyard.


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Combine your cinder block bar table with a DIY cooler stand to create a unified and inviting entertainment space.


By incorporating this creative landscaping idea, you've transformed ordinary cinder blocks into a stunning piece of homemade garden furniture. The structure of the planter stand provides endless vertical gardening inspiration, allowing you to display your favorite plants and flowers in a captivating way. And the best part? You achieved all of this without breaking the bank, thanks to the affordable garden decor opportunity that cinder blocks offer.


Now it's time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Invite friends and family over, raise a toast to your DIY prowess, and soak up the compliments on your remarkable creation. Don't forget to share your experience in the comments below.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 6 questions
  • Chuckee Notelling Chuckee Notelling on Jun 11, 2023
    I tried something similar many many years ago and had two major issues. Firstly the amount of soil per plant was so little that they ran out of space very quickly. I can see it working for succulants perhaps? Secondly, The concrete does leach into the soil as the season goes on and my plants did not thrive.The second year I lined the spaces with plastic, but it was a very hot year and there simply was not enough soil for plants to keep the roots cool.
  • Pearl Ellice Pearl Ellice on Apr 26, 2024
    Where's the bar?
  • Katen Katen on Apr 26, 2024
    Looks attractive but I do have same concerns posted. Could you give update on how plants do and bar access during gatherings?
Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 26 comments
  • Leila Capell Leila Capell on Apr 26, 2024
    Yes, it's OK but concrete gets awfully hot when the sun is on it and retains the heat so plants wouldn't do very well.
  • Dana Keeley Dana Keeley on Apr 27, 2024
    Worked very well in Florida, just had to make sure that the plants were heat tolerant and built it in the shade.
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