Omar Khalid
Plastic containers can be reused and upcycled to create planters for your favourite plants. This is a fun activity to do with kids and can be a great way to refresh your space. You can use plastic bottles or containers of any kind, from takeout containers to mixing cups and buckets. To get started, you'll need to mark halfway up the bottle or container and then cut it with a utility knife or X-acto knife. From there, you can paint and decorate your planter however you like. Finally, add some soil and your plant of choice, and you're done!
How to make planters out of plastic containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic bottle, Xacto knife/scissors, measuring device (e.g. ruler), muslin fabric, rubber band, paint and paintbrush, glue, googly eyes |
| Steps | 1. Cut the bottle in half or at the halfway mark. 2. Take off the cap. 3. Cover the mouth of the bottle with muslin and secure with a rubber band. 4. Fill the top half with dirt/soil and place a plant on top. 5. Paint and decorate the bottle (optional). |
| Tips | Use sandpaper to scuff the plastic before painting for better adhesion. Clean with isopropyl alcohol and let dry before painting. Heat up the drill bit before drilling holes to avoid breaking the plastic. |
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What You'll Learn
Cutting plastic bottles
If you're using a bottle cutter, the first step is to mark the bottle at the desired cutting point. Then, screw the knob of the cutter as far as it will go into the side opposite the small slot where the blade is inserted. Use pliers to break off a piece of the cutter, following the marked guidelines, into three pieces. Slide the cutter into the handle with the blade facing the threaded knob. Adjust the blue guide by screwing and unscrewing the knob to achieve the desired thickness for the rope. Finally, carefully cut along the marked line.
For those using an X-acto knife or scissors, the process is similar. Mark the bottle at the halfway point, or your desired cutting point, and carefully cut along the line with your chosen tool. If using scissors, be sure to hold the bottle steady with your non-dominant hand to guide the cut.
Once the bottle is cut, you can use the top half as a planter. Remove the cap, cover the mouth of the bottle with muslin fabric, and secure it with a rubber band. Fill the bottle with dirt and add your plant. Ensure you leave about 1 inch of space between the dirt and the top of the bottle.
You can also use other plastic containers as planters, such as takeout containers, mixing cups, or buckets. To create drainage holes in these containers, you can use a drill, heating the drill bit beforehand to prevent snapping. Alternatively, you can lightly sand the plastic and paint it with flexible acrylic paint or spray paint.
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Painting the planter
Once you've cut your plastic bottle in half, you can start to paint your planter. If you're using spray paint, lightly sand the plastic first with 220-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge, then clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol and let it dry. This will help the paint adhere better to the plastic. After that, you can start spraying! Make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions on your spray paint can. Usually, you'll want to hold the can about 10–16 inches away from the surface and spray in a steady back-and-forth motion. Allow the paint to dry between coats.
If you're using acrylic paint, you can lightly sand the plastic first, as mentioned above, to help the paint stick better. Then, using a paintbrush, paint the bottom portion of the bottle. Add multiple layers if necessary and let it dry. You can get creative and paint designs, patterns, or pictures on your planter. You can even glue on decorations like googly eyes or other craft items to give your planter a unique look.
Feel free to experiment with different types of paint and get creative with your designs! Just make sure that any paint you use is safe for plants and won't harm them. You can find plant-safe paints at craft stores or online. When in doubt, you can always create a barrier between the paint and the plant by lining your planter with a plastic bag or another type of waterproof liner.
Remember to consider the environment when choosing your paint. Some paints may contain harmful chemicals, so opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly options whenever possible. Always dispose of your paint and supplies properly, following the instructions on the product labels.
Now that your planter is painted and decorated, it's time to move on to the final steps of planting. Get your potting soil ready and choose a plant that will thrive in your new, unique planter!
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Drilling holes for drainage
- Invert your plastic container on a hard, flat surface.
- Mark where you want the drainage hole(s) to be. You can use a pencil, masking tape, or painter's tape to mark the spot. For a resin pot, one hole in the centre or lowest part of the bottom is usually sufficient. For larger pots, you may need two holes for adequate drainage.
- If you are using a drill, choose the right bit for the material. For plastic, a standard drill bit should work, but you can also use a sharp twist bit made from black oxide for smooth drilling. For harder materials like ceramic or terra-cotta, a masonry bit with a winged tungsten-carbide tip or a diamond-tipped bit is preferred.
- Place a piece of scrap wood underneath the container to prevent cracking.
- Start drilling slowly and steadily, with gentle pressure, especially if you are drilling into a brittle material like ceramic or terra-cotta. For plastic, drilling slowly will help prevent melting, which can cause the hole to close up.
- Keep the drill bit cool by dipping it in water or using a spray bottle to spray water on it. If you see smoke, you need to increase the water.
- Drill a small pilot hole first, then gradually increase the size if needed. The size of the hole will depend on the size of your container. For small to medium-sized pots, the holes should be no larger than half an inch, while for pots measuring 16 inches or more in diameter, the holes should be at least one inch each.
- Once you have drilled the hole(s), smooth any rough edges with sandpaper.
- If you are drilling into metal, be cautious of protective coatings that may expose the metal to moisture and cause rust. Apply a rust-resistant paint or sealant around the drilled hole to prevent this.
- If you don't have a drill, you can use other tools to create drainage holes in plastic containers. A heated nail or soldering iron can melt a hole, but be cautious of fumes and ensure adequate ventilation. Alternatively, a nail or a rotary tool like a Dremel can also be used to punch a hole.
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Using sandpaper to scuff the surface
When making planters out of plastic containers, using sandpaper to scuff the surface is an important step to ensure that paint will adhere to the plastic surface. Here is a step-by-step guide to using sandpaper to scuff the surface of a plastic container:
- Clean the plastic surface: Before scuffing the surface, it is important to ensure that the plastic is clean and free of any dirt or grime. Use a solution of detergent or a 1:1 mixture of water and vinegar with a soft cloth to thoroughly clean the plastic.
- Choose the right sandpaper: The type of sandpaper you use is crucial to the success of the scuffing process. It is recommended to use fine-grit sandpaper ranging from 180 to 220 grit for scuffing plastic. Sandpaper in this grit range will create a suitable texture on the plastic surface without causing excessive scratches.
- Wet sanding technique: It is recommended to use the wet sanding technique when scuffing plastic. This involves using water along with the sandpaper to create a lubricating film between the sandpaper and the plastic surface. This helps to reduce the friction and heat generated during the scuffing process, resulting in a smoother finish and reducing the risk of deep scratches.
- Sanding process: When using the sandpaper, it is important to move it in erratic and random patterns across the surface. This helps to avoid creating deep scratches or noticeable marks on the plastic. Use light, controlled strokes and apply even pressure across the surface. You can use a sanding sponge or foam block to help improve control and prevent the sandpaper from cutting too deeply into the plastic.
- Clean and dry the surface: Once you have finished scuffing the surface, use a damp cloth to remove any residual dirt or sanding dust. Ensure that you dry the surface thoroughly before proceeding to the next step, which is typically painting or decorating your planter.
By following these steps and using sandpaper to scuff the surface of your plastic containers, you will create a textured surface that will allow paint to adhere properly, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish for your DIY planters.
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Choosing suitable plants
When choosing plants for your plastic container planters, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the size of the plant, especially its root system. Ensure that the planter is not significantly larger than the plant's root system, as this can lead to decay. Similarly, the planter should not be too small, as this will restrict root growth. The ideal distance between the walls of the pot and the roots is about 2-3 cm, allowing the plant to grow comfortably.
The type of plant you choose is also important. Plastic containers are excellent choices for moisture-loving plants, as they retain water well. Certain plants, such as orchids, benefit from the ventilation and water flow that plastic containers provide. If you plan to grow orchids, plastic containers can provide an optimal microclimate that promotes their growth and durability.
It is also essential to consider the safety of the plastic you are using, especially if you plan to grow edible plants. Look for plastics that are free from Bisphenol A (BPA) and other potentially harmful chemicals. Recycling codes on plastic containers can help you identify which plastics are safest for gardening. HDPE planters are typically considered safe for growing vegetables, and they can also protect plants from chemicals in treated wood. Polylactic acid (PLA) is another safe option, derived from renewable resources like corn, wheat, and rice.
The shape and colour of your plastic planters are also factors to consider. Choose a shape that suits your personal preference and the design of your space. Plastic planters come in various colours and designs, so you can find ones that match your decor and interior style. Additionally, consider the price and your budget when selecting plastic planters. They are generally inexpensive, but prices can vary, so explore different options to find the best choice for your needs and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
You can make a planter out of a plastic container by cutting it in half and using one half as the planter. You can also cut out a portion of the plastic container and use that as the planter.
You can use a drill to make holes in the bottom of the plastic container. It is recommended to heat up the drill bit before drilling to avoid snapping or breaking the plastic.
You can decorate a plastic container planter by painting it with flexible acrylic paint or spray paint. You can also glue on decorations such as googly eyes.
