How to Build a Wire Mesh Compost Bin How to Build a Wire Mesh Compost Bin Circular Bin Five-Panel Bin Wire mesh composting bins are versatile, inexpensive and easy to construct. They may be used as holding units for slow composting or as turning units for hot composting. The circular and panel designs illustrated each have unique advantages. Although chicken wire can also be used, it quickly loses its shape with use, and requires support posts.
Hardware cloth creates a self supporting circle which is easier to manipulate and more durable.
A panel unit offers a greater variety of uses. Panels can be added to enlarge the bin, and individual panels can be used for screening coarse materials from finished compost. Roll out and cut 12 feet of hardware cloth or plastic coated wire mesh. If using hardware cloth, trim ends flush with a cross wire to eliminate loose edges that may poke or scratch hands. Apply file to each wire along cut edge to ensure safer handling when opening and closing the bin.