There are many videos on the Internet that can show you how to assemble your DIY Grow Tent, Grow Container, or Grow Box but here are some steps to keep in mind.
Design (Grow Tent only): Work out the dimensions of your tent and then assemble the frame. For the top of the frame use two cross beams to add rigidity and give you a place to hang your lights. You will need 4 equal lengths for the vertical pieces, and 8 equal lengths (assuming a square tent) for the floor and ceiling. The length of the 2 cross beams will be roughly the same as the floor/ceiling pieces.
Assembly (Grow Tent only): Build your frame. Cut your pieces to length – if using wood, simply join the pieces together with screws or nails. If using PVC, make sure you are working in a well-ventilated area because the glue is quite volatile. Note that you will need a cleaner and glue for PVC. Remember to mount the cross beams in the ceiling of the GT.
Wrapping (Grow Tent only): Once you have the frame completed, wrap three sides, roof, and floor with the poly wrap. Remember that the white side faces inwards. If mounting on wood, use a staple gun, if mounting to PVC use duct tape. For the 4th side just use a loose sheet of poly that can act as a curtain so you can access your plants.
Lights (Grow Tent Only): For a GT hang your lights from the cross beams of your tent. Having some light hangers will be very useful since they will allow you to adjust the height of the lights. For a GC, mount the T5s vertically, evenly spaced around the interior, and a smaller light on the interior lid. For a GB, mount the lights on the bottom of whichever box will be on top, and then flip the box over to form the top of your box. Regardless of the type of enclosure you will need to have at least one opening for electrical wiring. An extension cord with multiple sockets works well here.
Ventilation (All): All three enclosure options need inflow and outflow air holes. Install carbon filters or a vent to the exterior as required. If you plan on running flexible ducts (not required for a GB or GC) make sure the holes are correctly sized. Connect your carbon filter, which will probably be outside of the enclosure to help save space.
Test (All): Before placing any plants in your enclosure run a test. Place a thermometer inside (with RH reading if possible), turn on the lights and fans, and let it run for a while. With lights on you would like the range to be between 70-85F. With lights off in the 60-75F range. Keep RH below 60%.
There, that wasn’t so hard now, was it? Your enclosure is now ready. Time to germinate some seeds and begin growing!