DIY Concrete Planter Vases: Two Easy Techniques
Transform your home decor with these stylish and modern DIY concrete planter vases. This guide offers two simple techniques for creating unique planters using readily available materials. Perfect for succulents, cacti, flowers, or air plants, these concrete vases will add a touch of industrial chic to any space. Let’s explore how to craft these eye-catching pieces!
September is the perfect month for Exploring Creative Materials, and nothing sparks more creativity than working with concrete. When a new shapeable concrete product that behaves like clay appeared, the possibilities seemed endless. Using simple PVC fittings, this tutorial dives into how to create custom concrete planter vases. Keep reading to learn how to create these unique pieces for your home.
Creating unique planters doesn’t require a lot of experience or expensive materials. With a little patience and these two methods, you’ll have a set of modern concrete vases in no time. These planters are a great way to show off your favorite plants and add a handmade touch to your home.
After a bit of experimentation, two effective methods for making DIY concrete planter vases emerged using this shapeable material. Both techniques are detailed in this tutorial. Previous attempts with regular Rapid Set Cement All were unsuccessful, but these methods yield great results. The success of these techniques provides accessible options for creating your own modern plant displays.
These methods are designed to be as simple and accessible as possible, making them great for beginners. With minimal tools and materials, you can create a variety of concrete planter designs.
Ready to Create Your Own Concrete Planter Vases?
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to get started:
Materials List:
- PVC fittings (coupling – found in the plumbing section at home improvement stores)
- ShapeCrete (shapeable concrete)
- Water
- Rubber gloves
- Dust mask and safety glasses
- Large container for mixing materials
- Large spoon for mixing
- Cooking spray (optional – only needed for one of the techniques)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these instructions to create your custom concrete planter vases.
- Preparation: Start by putting on your safety glasses, dust mask, and rubber gloves. Safety is always a priority when working with concrete materials.
- Mixing the Concrete: Mix the ShapeCrete according to the instructions on the packaging. Generally, this involves adding 4 parts ShapeCrete to 1 part water to achieve a clay-like consistency. ShapeCrete.com offers a helpful video for mixing instructions. Aim for a consistency that’s easy to mold but holds its shape well.
- Testing Consistency: To test the consistency, form a ball of the concrete mixture in your hands. Gently shake your hand; if the ball settles and loses its shape, it’s ready to use. This ensures the mixture is workable for the next steps.
Technique 1: Applying Concrete to the Outside of the PVC Coupling
- Applying the Concrete: The first technique involves adding the concrete mixture to the outside of the PVC coupling. Apply a little bit at a time and smooth it with your fingers to maintain a consistent texture and thickness. This ensures an even and visually appealing finish.
- Adding Interior Concrete: Add concrete to the inside of the PVC coupling using the same technique. Leave the bottom and top open to accommodate a small bowl or cup with water underneath and an opening large enough for the stems of flowers on top. This creates a functional planter with a built-in drainage system.
- Drying: Once the PVC is completely covered, allow it to dry overnight (or longer, depending on the temperature and humidity in your area). Proper drying time is crucial for the concrete to harden and maintain its structure.
- Finishing Touches: Once dry, add a small bowl or cup underneath the concrete vase, fill it with water, and add flowers. This technique is perfect for showcasing floral arrangements.
*For the larger coupling version of this technique, flip it upside-down after it is completely dry to create a different shape and allow for a larger cup to go underneath. This offers a creative twist and expands the planter’s functionality.
Technique 2: Filling the PVC Fitting with Concrete
- Filling the PVC: The second method involves placing the concrete directly into the PVC fitting and then hollowing out a hole for air plants and cacti. This method creates a different aesthetic and is well-suited for succulents and cacti.
- Preparing the PVC: Place the PVC on a flat surface and spray the inside with cooking spray (to prevent sticking). This ensures that the concrete can be easily removed once it’s dry.
- Adding Concrete: Add the concrete mixture directly inside the pipe. Fill it completely, then remove some of the inside middle with your hands and create an indentation for air plants and/or cacti, as shown. This creates the perfect environment for these types of plants.
- Drying and Removal: Allow it to dry for up to 24 hours before removing the concrete from the PVC shell. This drying time allows the concrete to harden sufficiently for easy removal.
Finished Concrete Planter Vases
The planter vases from the first technique tend to be less smooth and have a more rounded shape. The planters created with the second technique maintain the rigid pipe shape and a smoother finish, which some may find more appealing. The choice between the two depends on personal preference.
These DIY concrete planters are a fantastic project for anyone looking to add a touch of handmade charm to their home. They are also a budget-friendly way to display your favorite plants. Whether you choose to use the first method and wrap the concrete around the PVC, or fill the PVC with concrete, the results are equally appealing. These planters make great gifts, too!
Ready to Try This DIY Concrete Project?
Which method do you prefer? Will you try making these DIY concrete planters? Let us know in the comments below. Happy crafting!
These DIY concrete planter vases are not only a fun project, but they also offer a creative outlet for exploring your personal style. Experiment with different sizes of PVC fittings to create varied planter sizes, and consider adding paint or decorative elements for personalization. These planters make a wonderful addition to any home, bringing a touch of nature and artistic expression to your living space.