There's nothing like a wishing well to add a little mysterious charm to the landscape. Children can't resist the idea of making a wish, and even adults have been known to toss in a penny or two. Although this do-it-yourself version doesn't hold water, it will add an instant focal point to the yard or garden. The project is simple enough for most woodworkers. The wall is constructed of "bricks" cut from standard 2-by-4 lumber and laid out on a template using glue and nails, so there's no masonry involved. Other materials include standard 4-by-6 and 2-by-6 lumber, plus a single 4-by-8 sheet of exterior plywood for the roof.The wishing well is built from redwood as pictured, but cedar or even pressure treated lumber work well, because all three withstand the elements and require little maintenance. The project can be finished clear, stained or painted as the builder desires.The wishing well measures four feet in diameter and almost seven feet tall, and includes authentic finishing touches like a bucket and an operating windlass with a crank.The Wishing Well plan (No. 371) includes complete step-by-step instructions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line.
