How To: Build a Fire Pit
When I think of summer, I think of long days at the river, warm nights catching fireflies, drinking lemonade and roasting marshmallows around the fire. Could there be any better way to bond with your friends and family? While my picture of summer is likely different than yours, one thing nearly everyone can understand about the season is the fun of gathering around a toasty fire.
To help you do that, DIY Steel has created a simple and easy fire pit project that almost anyone can put together. Not only is this a beautiful product but it will give you the satisfaction of knowing you created it by hand. Our fire pit project consists of five panels that interlock into each other. We’ve provided the step-by-step instructions below. Once complete, you can add a patina or leave it as raw metal and it will develop its own patina over time. Here are the instructions so you can make your own fire pit that you will enjoy for years to come.
- Material:
- 5 panels at 26” X 14”
- Tools:
- Rubber Mallet [Avoid using a hammer as it may damage the panel]
- Any type of thick gloves
- Time Required:
- approximately 30 – 60 minutes
- Cost:
- Retail: $199 Member: $179
To help you do that, DIY Steel has created a simple and easy fire pit project that almost anyone can put together. Not only is this a beautiful product but it will give you the satisfaction of knowing you created it by hand. Our fire pit project consists of five panels that interlock into each other. We’ve provided the step-by-step instructions below. Once complete, you can add a patina or leave it as raw metal and it will develop its own patina over time. Here are the instructions so you can make your own fire pit that you will enjoy for years to come.
Step 1:
First, grab two panels and make sure they are upside down (Picture 1) The panel bottom has a hook on one side and a divot on the other. We do this because it is easier to lay into each other when upside down. Set the hook of one panel into the divot of the other. (Picture 2.)
Step 2:
You may need a second pair of hands to hold the first two panels together as you slide the third panel into place (Picture 3). Set the hook of panel three and place it into the divot on the first two panels (Picture 4). It will fit loosely until you complete the circle of panels. You’ll notice the more pieces you add, the tighter the fit becomes. Once the third piece is in place, it should sit evenly on the ground.
Step 3:
Repeat step two to add the fourth panel (Picture 5). As you add it, you may need to slightly wiggle it into place. Then, grab the base of the fire pit and push down gently. If needed, use your mallet to hit the side of panel four to ensure a nice tight fit. With the fourth panel inserted your fire pit should be able to now sit by itself (Picture 6).
Step 4:
Slowly, add the last piece into the almost completed fire pit. To slide the final panel into place you will have to raise the other panels slightly and use your mallet to secure it in. Once the fifth panel is secure and going with the spin of the fire pit, use your mallet to hit the side of each panel to ensure it fits snugly together and will not come apart. Your firepit should look like Picture 8 once you have secured the last panel. Now, turn over your fire pit and it is complete! (Picture 9 & 10)
Congratulations, you are now ready to enjoy those summer nights around the fire! Keep in mind, unless you put a clear coat on your fire pit or create your own custom patina, its patina will change naturally over time. DIY Steel has a nice selection of paints, patinas and stains for all your projects, including top clear coats.
