Learn how you can build your own backyard compost bin quickly, easily and with a minimum of material by following this step-by-step pattern. You'll benefit in a number of ways. First, composting reduces the volume of leaves, grass clippings and food scraps that are dumped in our local landfills. Second, the nutrient rich humus you'll produce will enrich the soil in gardens and flower beds and will reduce your reliance on store bought fertilizer.

The system shown here organizes and simplifies the composting process. The large bin holds the waste material and allows plenty of air to circulate thus aiding the decomposition process. When the compost is ready, the sifter is used to break up larger clumps. The compost is then stored in the smaller bin, which has a removable side for easier access.

The lumber you'll use is easy to find and since all cuts are straight cuts, only common tools are needed for construction. Not only is the design easy to build, it's also easy to maintain.