As you may already know, this household loves to DIY and build our own things. Most of the time it is because it’s cheaper than buying it ready-made and sometimes we just like a custom product for our home. Things are no different for this amazing firepit in our backyard!

This is not our first firepit; the previous one was extra large & made out of cinder blocks. It was useful in it’s way, but it became more of a trash pit and was SO UGLY (ugh!).

After months and months of putting it off, we finally decided to tear down the old one and build a smaller, prettier firepit. This project takes less than a weekend to complete and is easy on the wallet. Yes, you can get a firepit kit or one of those metal ones and if that is what you want or have to do, go for it! But for those that want to build their own custom one, this tutorial is for you!

[Disclaimer: Know your city/town ordinances & codes for fire pits and digging, etc. Use common sense and safe procedures when around fire, etc.]

Materials:

• 42 retaining wall blocks
• 1 cubic foot of rocks (2 bags)
• shovel
• rake

The first order of business in building your firepit is the hardest: picking out the location! You want it far enough away that it’s not in your way or too close to buildings or trees, but close enough that you can easily get to it.

Once you have found the level ground where you want to build, loosely form your first ring with 14 blocks.

Then, take your shovel and dig about an inch of dirt and grass from inside the ring.

Now, tidy up your ring of blocks by making sure they all touch and are evenly spaced. Stack up a second layer of blocks. Make sure the second layer is alternated from the first; meaning you want a second layer block to be sitting on centered on two first layer blocks. Continue for a third layer.

Make sure the blocks are even & sturdy. If they are not, your ground may not be level or they just need some minor adjusting.

Next, pour your drainage rocks into the center of the pit. Use the rake to distribute them evenly across the bottom.

Also, you can use more of the same drainage rocks as a border on the the outside of the firepit. It serves as an extra safety precaution for the fire & can give it a more finished look.

And that is it! You have finished making your own firepit. Just setup some wood, light a fire, & enjoy your evening with friends and family.

Do you enjoy fall or winter evenings by a bonfire or firepit? Let me know in the comments below!