While a DIY paint job can save you money in lieu of hiring contractors, the paint will still cost you a pretty penny. The average can of latex paint goes for between $15 to $50 a gallon, while oil-based paints go for even higher at $20 to $60. You can recoup some, or even the entire, amount you spent by repurposing those paint cans into chic planters.
All you need to do is remove the label, put holes in the bottom for drainage, and give it a coat of paint. You can get a range of looks with different types of spray paint. You can turn your ordinary paint can into one with a trendy textured hammered look or metallic rose gold. Or you can create a hand-painted design. Similar can planters sell for $12 to $50 online. But why pay for one when you can make your own?
For this hack, you’ll need an old paint can, a paint scraper, dish soap, a drill (or a hammer and nail), spray paint, potting soil, and seeds or a plant. To start, you don’t want to waste perfectly good paint. So, if the paint is still good pour it out into a paint tray and use it to paint your can.
How to make your DIY paint can planter
If the paint is bad or hardened, you’ll have to remove it. You can tell if your paint isn’t good anymore if it smells, has lumps, or there’s mold or dark-colored specks in it. Leftover liquid paint should be properly disposed of according to local law. If it’s hardened, you’ll have to use a paint scraper to get it out. Once the paint is removed, you should give the can a rinse with soap and water. Then, peel the label off of your can.
If the sticker is stubborn, you can submerge your paint can in a bucket of hot water, dish soap, and vinegar and let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes. This should allow you to easily remove it. Once your can is clean, you’ll drill a few holes into the bottom of it to create drainage for your plant. Three or four holes should be enough. If you don’t have a drill, you should be able to make some holes with a hammer and nail.
Now it’s time to paint your can. If you’re not using leftover paint, make sure you use one that will adhere to metal surfaces, such as an oil-based paint. Painting it copper will create a modern rustic look. You can also use a stencil, paint it freehand, or use spray adhesive to attach fabric to it. Then, fill it with your soil and a plant or seeds.
