Creating a compost tumbler is a fantastic way to recycle kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Compost tumblers make the process easier and quicker, allowing for better aeration and mixing of materials. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse DIY compost tumbler designs that cater to various skill levels and materials. Let’s dive in!
This design is perfect for beginners looking for an effective yet straightforward solution. Using a large plastic barrel, this tumbler allows for easy rotation and minimal effort.
Start with a sturdy, food-grade plastic barrel (usually around 55 gallons). Cut two holes on opposite sides of the barrel, just large enough for your hands to fit through. These will be your handles. Next, mount the barrel on a wooden frame made from 2x4s, ensuring it has enough clearance to spin. You can use a simple hinge to hold it in place while allowing it to rotate.
Once assembled, fill the barrel with your compostable materials—kitchen scraps, lawn clippings, and shredded paper. To turn the compost, simply grab the barrel handles and roll it back and forth. This method aerates the mixture, speeding up the composting process.
For those who prefer a rustic look and have access to wooden pallets, this tumbler design is a fantastic choice. It not only utilizes recyclable materials but also blends beautifully into a garden setting.
Start by gathering two wooden pallets. Place one pallet horizontally as the base and secure the other vertically to act as the tumbler’s body. Use hinges to connect the top of the vertical pallet to the base, allowing it to swing open for easy access. To keep the compost contained, you can add chicken wire or mesh to the sides of the tumbler.
Fill the tumbler with layers of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. When it’s time to mix the compost, simply swing the pallet open and use a pitchfork to turn the contents, or give it a gentle push to rotate it.
If you’re serious about composting and want to maximize your output, a dual-chamber tumbler is an excellent investment. This design allows you to compost in one chamber while the other is maturing, ensuring a continuous supply of compost.
To create this tumbler, you’ll need two large plastic bins with lids. Cut a large access door on the side of each bin for easy loading and unloading. Use a sturdy frame made of wood or metal to hold the bins horizontally. Install a rotating mechanism using PVC pipes or a set of wheels on each side to allow for easy turning.
Fill one bin with your compostable materials. When it’s full, start filling the second bin while the first one breaks down. After a few weeks, turn the first bin, aerating the compost and speeding up the decomposition process.
These examples of DIY compost tumbler designs are not only practical but also customizable to fit your space and needs. By creating your own tumbler, you contribute positively to the environment while enriching your garden soil. Happy composting!