Plastic molds can be a great way to make unique and affordable cement planters for your home or garden. By using plastic flower pots as molds, you can create a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your specific needs. With a little bit of preparation and some basic materials, you can easily make your own DIY cement planters that are both stylish and functional.
Understanding the Basics of making cement planters is important before getting started. You will need to choose the right type of cement mix for your project, depending on the size and shape of your mold. Once you have your materials, you will need to mix the cement according to the instructions and pour it into your mold. After allowing the cement to dry and cure, you can remove the mold and finish your planter with sanding, painting, or other customization options.
Key Takeaways
- Plastic molds are an affordable and easy way to make unique cement planters.
- Understanding the basics of mixing and pouring cement is essential for success.
- Finishing and customization options allow you to create a personalized planter for your home or garden.
Understanding the Basics
Making DIY cement planters using plastic molds is an easy and fun project that can be done by anyone. All you need are some basic supplies, including cement, water, and plastic molds. Here are some basic things you need to know before you get started.
Materials and Supplies
To start, you will need some basic materials and supplies. These include:
- Plastic molds: You can use any type of plastic mold to make your cement planters. You can use plastic bottles, buckets, containers, or specially purchased forms. You can also make your own form out of plywood.
- Cement: You can use most any cement or concrete mix for planters. Portland cement is a common choice, but you can also use other types of cement or concrete mix.
- Water: You will need water to mix with your cement or concrete mix.
- Mixing container: You will need a container to mix your cement or concrete mix and water.
- Mixing tool: You will need a mixing tool to mix your cement or concrete mix and water. A trowel or a wooden stick works well.
- Release agent: You will need a release agent to help remove the cement planter from the mold. Cooking spray or petroleum jelly works well.
Instructions
To make your DIY cement planters, follow these basic instructions:
- Prepare your mold by applying a release agent to the inside of the mold.
- Mix your cement or concrete mix and water in a mixing container according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pour the mixture into the mold, filling it to the desired level.
- Tap the mold gently to remove any air bubbles.
- Allow the cement or concrete mix to set for at least 24 hours.
- Remove the cement planter from the mold by gently tapping or twisting the mold.
- Sand the edges of the planter if necessary.
Conclusion
Making DIY cement planters using plastic molds is a fun and easy project that anyone can do. With the right materials and supplies, you can create beautiful planters that will add a unique touch to your home or garden. Just follow these basic instructions, and you’ll be on your way to creating your own DIY cement planters in no time!
Preparation and Process
Making cement planters with plastic molds is a simple and fun DIY project that can add a touch of greenery to your home decor. Here are the steps to follow:
Choosing Your Molds
The first step is to choose the right molds for your project. You can use any plastic container as a mold, such as old yogurt cups, plastic bowls, or even buckets. It’s important to choose a mold that is the right size and shape for your plant. For example, if you’re making a small succulent planter, a yogurt cup might be perfect, but if you’re making a larger planter for a tree, you might need to use a larger container.
Mixing the Concrete
Once you have your molds, it’s time to mix the concrete. You will need dry cement mix, water, and a tarp to mix the concrete on. Follow the instructions on the cement mix bag to get the right consistency. It’s important to wear gloves and a mask when mixing the concrete to avoid skin irritation and inhaling dust.
Molding the Planters
Once the concrete is mixed, it’s time to pour it into the molds. Make sure to grease the molds with cooking oil or grease before pouring the concrete to make it easier to remove the planters later. You can also use an outer mold and an inner mold to create a hollow space in the planter. Once the concrete is poured, tap the mold gently to remove any air bubbles and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
After the concrete has dried, remove the planters from the molds by cutting away the plastic container with a box cutter. Sand the edges of the planter to smooth them out. You can also paint or decorate the planters to match your home decor.
Overall, making cement planters with plastic molds is an easy and rewarding DIY project that can be customized to fit any style or space. With a few simple steps and some creativity, you can add a touch of greenery to your home decor.
Finishing and Customization
Sanding and Finishing
Once the cement has dried, the planter can be removed from the mold. It is important to sand down any rough edges or bumps on the planter to avoid any injury. Sandpaper with a grit of 80 or 100 can be used to smooth out the surface. After sanding, the planter can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
To give the planter a finished look, it can be painted with concrete pigments or stained. Concrete sealer can also be applied to protect the planter from weather damage. A foam brush can be used to apply the sealer evenly. The planter should be allowed to dry completely before planting.
Drainage and Planting
Drainage holes are essential for planters to ensure proper drainage. These holes can be created by poking a stick or PVC pipe into the base of the planter while the cement is still wet. Alternatively, the plastic mold can be cut to create a drainage hole.
To prevent soil from escaping through the drainage holes, rocks or pebbles can be placed at the bottom of the planter. A layer of dirt can be added on top of the rocks, and the plant can be planted in the soil.
Customization Options
Cement planters can be customized in various ways to give them a unique look. Stamps or designs can be pressed onto the wet cement to create patterns. The planter can also be painted with different colors or designs to match the decor.
The cost of making a cement planter is relatively low, and it can be a fun DIY project for anyone. With a little creativity, cement planters can be customized to fit any style.
Care and Maintenance
Cement planters made from plastic molds are a great addition to any modern garden or indoor plant collection. However, to keep them looking their best and ensure the longevity of your plants, it’s important to take proper care of them. Here are some tips to help you maintain your cement planters:
- Watering: Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes people make when caring for plants in cement planters. It’s important to ensure that the soil is completely dry before watering, as cement planters do not have drainage holes. Succulents are a great choice for cement planters, as they require less water than other plants. If you’re unsure about the watering needs of your plants, do some research to determine whether they prefer alkaline or acidic soil.
- Cleaning: Cement planters can easily accumulate dirt and debris, especially if they are placed outdoors. To clean your planters, simply use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away any dirt or grime. You can also use a mild soap solution if necessary.
- Winter Storage: If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s important to store your cement planters indoors during the colder months. This will help prevent cracking or damage to the planter walls. You can also cover the planters with a tarp or other protective covering to keep them safe from the elements.
- Reuse Projects: Cement planters are a great reuse project for garden enthusiasts. If you’re looking to create a new planter, you can easily break apart your old cement planter and use the pieces to create a new design. Alternatively, you can use the broken pieces to create a unique garden wall or other concrete garden projects.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your cement planters remain beautiful and functional for years to come.