The hardest part of making a screen box now is finding 1/2" x 1/2" screen that is strong enough. I solved that by using a heavier weight 1/2" x 1" stapled to the outside of the frame. I then tie the 1/2" x1/2" screen to the heavier screen on the inside. Every few years I have to re do the ties. I've had my frame for over 25 years. I made a little hand screen for the 1/4" mesh that is a foot square. When screening soil I use the block to break down the clods. That's why I needed the screen to be heavy duty.
My screen box is made out of pine to keep the weight down. The boards that it sits on are oak.
