We all love snagging brand-new plant accessories, but let’s be real – those fancy store prices can really add up. Instead of splurging, why not head to your local thrift shop and get creative? You can find all kinds of household items that make awesome, inexpensive DIY plant displays. From side tables and jewelry holders to tote bags and vintage cookie jars, the possibilities are endless. Plus, you’ll be giving those pre-loved items a whole new lease on life. Sure, some of these DIY planters might need a little fixing up, like drilling drainage holes. But with a bit of elbow grease, you can transform those thrift store finds into the cutest homes for your indoor and outdoor greenery. No matter how much space you have, you can create a fun, budget-friendly plant display using affordable, one-of-a-kind items.
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Build a planter out of a side or coffee table
Thrift stores are chock-full of old side tables and coffee tables that you can totally repurpose into awesome plant displays. Depending on the table, you can cut holes in the top to fit planters, or even cut out a big section in the middle to create a planter box. One crafty DIYer even turned an old coffee table into an outdoor planter by splitting the center and adding a sunken planter box. The options are endless when it comes to upcycling those thrift store table finds!
Drape plants over unique jewelry holders
Jewelry holders are another awesome thrift store find that can double as plant displays. You can use the hooks to hang small planter baskets, or just plant right in the holder itself. One DIYer got super creative and turned a hand-shaped jewelry holder into a cool planter for their trailing succulent. Another used a wire dress-shaped holder to grow some pretty succulents. You could even transform a jewelry box into a mini planter!
Plant succulents in teacups
Thrift stores are practically overflowing with cute teacups and mugs – perfect for turning into mini planters! Just grab a few in your favorite colors and patterns, add some drainage holes, and you’ve got adorable little succulent displays for your home. The best part is, you can usually find these for just a few bucks each.
Add drainage to vintage or antique cookie jars
Cookie jars are another super fun thrift store find that you can turn into quirky plant displays. These vintage and antique containers are usually pretty sturdy, and you can often find them for under $25. The trickiest part is drilling drainage holes in the bottom, but once you’ve got that covered, you can add soil and plants to your heart’s content.
Use tote and canvas bags as planters
Tote bags and canvas bags are another super budget-friendly thrift store find that can double as awesome DIY planters. Just cut a few drainage holes in the bottom, line it with a plastic bag, and voila – an instant planter! You can stand it up on its own or even hang it from the wall or fence for a fun, vertical display.
Turn any lamp base into a planter
Next time you’re browsing the thrift store’s lamp section, keep an eye out for old lamp bases. Believe it or not, you can easily turn these into cool, one-of-a-kind planters. Just remove any screws, fuel remnants, or other excess pieces, and you’re left with an empty base that’s perfect for potting up a plant. It’s such a fun, creative way to give those old lamps a new lease on life!
Add plants to a wicker basket
Wicker baskets are another amazing thrift store find that you can turn into a cute planter for your patio, garden, or even inside your home. Just line the basket with burlap and a garbage bag (don’t forget to punch drainage holes!), then add your soil and plants. The wicker gives it such a nice, natural look.
Display plants on a step ladder
Here’s a fun and unique way to show off your plants – use an old step ladder as a display! Whether you set the ladder up in an A-frame or lean it against the wall, it makes for a super cool, multi-level plant stand. You can even add extra shelves by laying some wood planks across the steps. Just make sure to secure everything so your plants have a sturdy home.
