Simple Hexagon Planter | Hexagon Planter with angled sides

Simple Hexagon Planter

Some time ago someone wrote and asked how to cut wood to make a hexagonal planter. It was probably a homework question, as the caveat was 'without wasting any wood' - not really relevant unless you're making the things commercially.

This 3-D model is a simple straight-sided planter. Drag it with your mouse to see it properly.

Here is a sketch showing the angles.

If you have a long plank of wood, you can cut the sides of the planter using alternate 60 degree cuts to save wood.

Hexagon Planter with angled sides

This 3-D model is a planter with angled sides. Drag it with your mouse to see it properly.

You'll need six panels like this: (drag it with your mouse to see properly)

You will need to decide the measurements p,q and r in the diagram below, as well as the thickness of wood t Note these are external measurements, and there is no base shown, so you'll have to add that on.

Each of the six panels will look like this:

These formulae give the measurements:-

The formulae are derived by considering the hexagonal roof; the planter is simply a lower portion of the roof, inverted. The algebra goes like this, using nomenclature from the hexagonal roof page:-

(Java applet from LiveGraphics3D)

page date: 25Jun06.      I enjoy correspondence stimulated by this site. You can contact me here.