Transform everyday items into stunning plant homes with these creative DIY planter ideas. Handcrafted planters add personality to your indoor garden while providing perfect homes for your beloved plants. From repurposed vintage finds to modern geometric designs, these projects help you create unique containers that match your style and budget.
Vintage Book Planters
Transform old hardcover books into charming succulent planters that tell a story. Begin by selecting a thick hardcover book with an attractive spine and cover. Use a sharp craft knife to cut a rectangular well into the pages, leaving about an inch border around all sides. Seal the inside with several layers of Mod Podge or waterproof sealant, allowing each layer to dry completely. Line the cavity with plastic to protect against moisture, then add well-draining soil and your chosen plants.
Geometric Concrete Planters
Modern concrete planters bring industrial chic to your space while being surprisingly simple to create. Mix small batches of concrete according to package directions. Pour the mixture into silicon molds or create your own shapes using cardboard. Insert a smaller container into the wet concrete to make the plant cavity. Once cured, sand any rough edges and seal the concrete to prevent moisture damage. These versatile containers work beautifully with everything from trailing vines to architectural succulents.
Macramé Hanging Planters
Create bohemian-style hanging planters using basic macramé knots and natural cotton cord. Start with a wooden ring or metal hoop as your base. Create a series of square knots working downward to form a net cradling your plant pot. Add decorative elements like wooden beads or knot patterns to personalize your design. These hanging planters work particularly well with trailing plants like pothos or strings of pearls.
Copper Pipe Plant Stand
Fashion a sleek, modern plant stand from copper pipes and fittings. Cut copper pipes to desired lengths using a pipe cutter. Create a geometric frame using elbow joints and T-connections. Sand any rough edges and clean the copper thoroughly. Leave the copper natural to develop a patina, or seal it to maintain its bright finish. Add a wooden top to hold your favorite plant containers, or integrate hanging elements for an additional display dimension.
Teacup Succulent Gardens
Breathe new life into vintage teacups by transforming them into charming succulent planters. Source interesting cups from thrift stores or family collections. Drill drainage holes using a ceramic drill bit and water to prevent cracking. Add a layer of gravel for drainage, then fill with cactus soil. Choose small succulents that match the scale of your cups. These delicate gardens make perfect centerpieces or windowsill decorations.
Wooden Wine Box Herb Garden
Repurpose wooden wine boxes into sophisticated herb gardens perfect for kitchen windowsills. Sand the box lightly to remove any rough spots while preserving its character. Drill several drainage holes in the bottom and add a layer of waterproof sealant inside. Line with landscape fabric, add gravel for drainage, then fill with potting soil. Plant your favorite cooking herbs in neat rows, adding small plant markers for identification.
Industrial Pipe Shelving System
Create a customizable plant display using black iron pipes and reclaimed wood. Select pipes and fittings in various lengths to build your desired configuration. Clean all components thoroughly and seal the wood to protect against moisture. Assemble your shelving system, ensuring it’s properly anchored to wall studs. This industrial-style shelving provides flexible space for plants of various sizes while adding architectural interest to your room.
Terrarium Light Fixtures
Transform clear glass light fixtures into hanging terrariums. Remove any electrical components and clean thoroughly. Create drainage layers using activated charcoal and gravel. Add specially formulated terrarium soil and choose plants suited to enclosed environments. Consider air plants, moss, and miniature ferns for these unique displays. Suspend from sturdy hooks using decorative chains or rope.
Living Picture Frames
Design vertical gardens within picture frames for living wall art. Start with a deep wooden frame and add a solid backing. Create a grid system for planting using chicken wire or plastic grid material. Add a moisture barrier and growing medium suitable for your chosen plants. Select small, shallow-rooted plants that will thrive in vertical conditions. These living pictures bring artwork and nature together in stunning displays.
Ladder Plant Stand
Transform an old wooden ladder into a versatile plant display. Sand and refinish the ladder if desired, or embrace its weathered character. Add wooden planks across the steps to create stable shelving. Consider adding casters for mobility or securing it to the wall for stability. Arrange plants at various heights, using the ladder’s natural angles to create visual interest.
Natural Branch Plant Hanger
Create organic plant displays using found branches and natural materials. Select a sturdy branch with interesting curves or angles. Clean and treat the wood to prevent pest problems. Add hooks or drill small holes for hanging elements. Use natural twine or leather cord to create hanging planters at various heights. This project brings a touch of nature indoors while providing unique display opportunities.
Tin Can Herb Gardens
Elevate simple tin cans into stylish herb planters. Remove labels and thoroughly clean the cans. Create drainage holes in the bottom using a hammer and nail. Sand any sharp edges and paint or decorate the exterior as desired. Add a layer of gravel for drainage before filling with potting soil. Group cans of various sizes together for an eclectic herb garden display.
Floating Window Shelves
Design clear acrylic shelves that seem to float in front of windows. Cut acrylic sheets to size or have them custom cut at a hardware store. Create subtle mounting brackets that attach to your window frame. Position shelves to catch natural light while displaying your plants. These nearly invisible shelves create magical displays of plants that appear to float in mid-air.
Your handcrafted planters become unique elements that personalize your indoor garden while providing perfect homes for your plants. Take time to properly seal and drain all containers to ensure they function as beautifully as they look. Mix and match different styles to create dynamic displays that reflect your creativity and love for plants.
