Keep Youngsters Amused, Build a Gazebo Sandbox

Gazebos are still a trendy yard decoration, even though they’re as old as gardening itself. Gracing the hills of Rome in the first century, gazebos are appearing more and more in contemporary gardens.

A variation of the summerhouse, as gazebos are sometimes called, is our gazebo sandbox. Sure to bring joy to the whole family, it’s a focal point for your garden and a shady place for children to play.

Hexagon in shape, it measures 7 feet high and 5 feet wide. Choosing splinter-free finished lumber (fir is recommended), the sandbox sides are assembled.

Posts are next mounted with seat pieces fitting easily in the post slots. An apron is added as an optional feature to strengthen the seat; the bottom portion is left open so a lawn trimmer may be used.

Redwood lath material is cut and fitted upon rafters forming the gazebo, which is then screwed down upon the posts. A materials list and a lumber shopping guide are included in the plan; as well as detailed step-by-step directions, photos and drawings.

To obtain Kids Gazebo Sandbox, Plan 792, please send $5.50. Also available is our Patterns for Better Living catalogue, picturing over 700 woodworking and handicraft projects, $3.95. Prices include postage and handling. California residents, please add sales tax. Send check or money order to Steve Ellingson, c/o Los Angeles Times, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, Calif. 91409-2383.