Compost Sifter / Trommel Screen
A simple wooden frame with hardware cloth that you shake over a wheelbarrow to screen out finished compost and return chunks to the pile.
Estimated cost
$25 – $45
Estimated time
1 – 1.5 hours
Lifespan
10+ years
Soil needed
None — sifts finished compost
Weight empty
8–12 lbs
Weight full
Adds 20–30 lbs of compost while sifting
Best for
Separating fine finished compost from sticks and undecomposed chunks
Placement
Work over a wheelbarrow or tarp. Do this on a calm day — sifting creates dust.
Boards to Buy
| Boards to Buy | Quantity | What You Use Them For |
|---|---|---|
| 1×4 lumber, 8 ft | 2 | Frame sides |
| 1/4-inch hardware cloth, 2 ft × 2 ft | 1 | Screen |
| 1.5-inch exterior screws | 1 lb box | Frame |
| Staples or U-nails | Small box | Attach mesh |
- ·Optional: wood stain or sealant
Steps
- 1Cut four 1×4 pieces: two at 24 inches and two at 21 inches.
- 2Build a rectangular frame so the inside opening is 24×24 inches.
- 3Staple the hardware cloth tightly across the bottom of the frame.
- 4Add a second row of staples for strength.
- 5Optional: add two handles on the long sides.
- 6Sand edges and apply sealant if desired.
- 7Set the sifter over a wheelbarrow or tarp.
- 8Shovel compost onto the screen and shake side to side.
- 9Fine compost falls through; chunks go back to the pile.
Tools needed
- ·Circular saw or miter saw
- ·Cordless drill / driver
- ·Staple gun
- ·Tape measure
- ·Work gloves
Common mistakes to avoid
- ·Mesh too fine — 1/4 inch is ideal for most gardens
- ·Frame too flimsy — compost is heavy to shake
- ·No handles or lip to rest on the wheelbarrow
- ·Sifting wet compost — it clogs the mesh
Maintenance tips
Brush off the mesh after each use. Store under cover. Replace the mesh if it tears.
Community builds
See how other gardeners built their compost sifter / trommel screen — and share up to 3 photos of yours.
Sign in to view photos other gardeners have shared.
Sign in to share photos of your build.