I have had the pleasure of getting to capture several swarms lately. Some really weird ones, some normal ones. While free bees are a grand thing, I found myself in a situation I could not have imagined… running low on deeps. I am trying to use all 8 frame equipment, just to keep things simple, but I do have some 10 frame deeps if push comes to shove.
I decided this was the weekend to build some boxes. I built two a few weeks ago, just to make sure I had the process down. Having been happy with my first attempt (except the lack of handles) I set myself up to make several.
I found a deal at Lowes, eight 8′ 1×12 pine boards for $38. I set to work, and spent the better part of the day working on this. I made jigs as I went, in order to simplify future building projects. At the end of the day, I ended up with 10 (almost 11) boxes. I figure with nails and glue, I probably built each for under $6. Not bad. I may be able to do a little better, if I adjust my cuts to get the most out of each board. I ended up with a scrap piece from each board just a bit too short to use as an end piece.
All in all, I am happy, and my bees will be happy as well.
