If you’re looking for a DIY project to make something you can use both indoors and outdoors, try making a cement planter. The process for creating your own is simple and only needs a few basic tools and materials. With your finished planter you can enjoy the benefits of container planting either in the yard or inside the home. Here’s how to do it:
What You’ll Need
Concrete mix
5-gallon bucket
Canola or vegetable oil
Stir sticks
Paper towels
Protective gloves
Scissors
Pliers
Plastic containers of various sizes
How to Make Your Cement Planter
The first step in this project is making the cement mold itself. You will need two containers for this: one for the outside shape of the pot and one for the space inside. If you don’t have any pots you want to emulate, try checking local thrift stores for fun shapes. You can also use a bucket, bowl or plastic food container.
Prepare your containers by rubbing them down thoroughly with canola oil. Do this by pouring some onto a piece of paper towel and coating it like you would a baking pan. Grease the inside of the larger container to protect the outer shape, then add oil to the outside of the small container.
Mix the cement per the package instructions. The amount you’ll need will vary depending on the size of the pot you want to make.
Keep stirring until the cement is smooth and thick. Then pour it into the oiled (outer) container.
Take the smaller container (with the outside oiled) and push it down partially into the cement.
Wait 24 hours or longer for the cement to set. Consult the included instructions for exact timing recommendations.
With your pliers, pull the inside container free of the cement. You may need to wiggle it a bit but the canola oil should help it come out easily.
Now remove the outside container. One way to do this is by flipping it upside down and tapping on the bottom until it shakes loose.
Add stones, pebbles or gravel to the bottom of the planter and your choice of potting mix.
Add your plant and enjoy your brand new cement planter!
Use this same technique to make planters of different sizes and shapes. For rounded planters, remember to use plastic containers for mold as you will need to cut them off or break them to free the planter. Customize further with paint or a cement finish of your choice and place indoors or outside with your favorite plants inside.
About the Author
Jacqui Zuzgo
I have been a REALTOR® in Massachusetts since 1984 and hold both a salesman and broker license. I am currently affiliated with Five College REALTORS® located at 190 University Drive, Amherst, MA. Over my career, I have consistently been a Top Producer in the Pioneer Valley and have gained a reputation for being a strong-minded, no-nonsense negotiator in the industry. I also frequently rank highly on Boston’s Top 20 for sales in Western Massachusetts. Some of my best qualities include my listening and communication skills. I have time and again proven to work well under pressure with exceptional attention to detail. My commitment to my clients and professionalism is obvious in every transaction.
Representing both buyers and sellers in Hampshire and Franklin Counties, as well as assisting in relocations throughout the United States and globally has helped me embrace the need for quality performance and develop an acute and sincere sensitivity to people's needs. Honing in on what matters most is almost a sixth sense. Communication and awareness of the situation at hand produce a final result that has undoubtedly led to the large referral business I maintain.
Education has been a theme throughout my 30 years of experience. Well versed in technology and holding key designations have proven to be assets to my performance and dedication to the Real Estate field. My never-ending enthusiasm, availability, knowledge and drive make for a seamless transaction every client, every time.
I am a native of the Pioneer Valley. I am committed to sharing all the area has to offer in making your transition, whether long distance or short, a satisfying experience.
Education:
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst - Bachelor of Science 1983
- Top Individual Seller for Residential Sales in the Pioneer Valley since 2006.
- #1#1 Realtor in the entire Franklin/Hampshire Counties for Millions Sold since 1999.
- Highest producer in sales since 2004 in Franklin/Hampshire Counties.
- ABR®– Accredited Buyer's Representative
- CRS – Certified Residential Specialist (only 3% of REALTORS® hold a CRS)
- e-PRO – Digital Marketing, Certified e-PRO Realtor®
- GRI – Graduate, Realtors® Institute
- SRES– Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
Biographical Highlights:
Life long, active member of the community, born & raised in the Pioneer Valley. Graduate of University of Massachusetts, Amherst, BS 1983.
Current Committee Involvement:
Member of the local Chamber of Commerce - Post Board of Director's member Volunteer for the Road to Recovery.
Greenfield Community College Foundation Board Member
Greenfield Savings Bank Corporator
MLS Professional Standards Committee Member
Have a question for Jacqui? Jacqui's email: [email protected]
