Concrete planters have become a staple in modern Scandinavian interior design, offering a perfect blend of industrial aesthetics and natural elements. They're particularly popular for housing succulents, air plants, and small herbs, adding texture and contrast to any space.
The good news is that creating your own concrete planters is much easier than you might think. With just a few materials and tools, you can craft beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces that would cost significantly more if purchased from a design store.
Materials You'll Need
- Quick-setting concrete mix (available at most hardware stores)
- Mixing container (plastic bucket or disposable container)
- Mixing tool (sturdy stick or small trowel)
- Water
- Molds for your planters (more on this below)
- Cooking spray or petroleum jelly (as a release agent)
- Sandpaper (220 grit)
- Protective gloves
- Dust mask
- Optional: concrete sealer
Choosing Your Molds
The beauty of DIY concrete planters is that almost anything can serve as a mold. Here are some ideas:
- Plastic containers: Yogurt pots, takeout containers, and plastic cups work well
- Silicone molds: If you want to invest a bit more, silicone baking molds offer interesting shapes
- Double-mold method: Use two containers of different sizes (one inside the other) with concrete poured between them
For beginners, we recommend starting with the double-mold method, as it creates a classic planter shape with a hollow center for your plant.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Concrete can be messy, so cover your work surface with newspaper or plastic. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear your protective gear (gloves and dust mask).
2. Prepare Your Molds
For the double-mold method:
- Choose two containers, one smaller than the other
- Apply a generous layer of cooking spray or petroleum jelly to the inside of the larger container and the outside of the smaller container
- The space between the two containers will determine the thickness of your planter walls
3. Mix the Concrete
- Follow the instructions on your concrete mix package for the water-to-concrete ratio
- Pour the recommended amount of water into your mixing container
- Gradually add the concrete mix, stirring continuously
- Mix until you achieve a consistency similar to thick pancake batter
Pro Tip:
If the mixture is too watery, add more concrete mix. If it's too thick, add small amounts of water. The ideal consistency should be pourable but not runny.
4. Pour the Concrete
- Pour the concrete mixture into the larger container, filling it about halfway
- Gently tap the sides of the container to release air bubbles
- Press the smaller container into the center of the concrete mixture
- Add weights to the smaller container to prevent it from floating up (coins or small rocks work well)
- Continue pouring concrete into the gap between containers until you reach about 1 cm from the top of the smaller container
5. Create Drainage Holes (Optional)
If you're making planters for live plants, drainage holes are essential. Push a dowel or thick straw through the concrete at the bottom while it's still wet.
6. Let it Cure
Leave your planter to set for at least 24-48 hours. Concrete will feel dry to the touch after a few hours but needs more time to fully cure and develop strength.
7. Remove from Molds
- Once cured, carefully remove the weights and pull out the inner container
- Gently flex the outer container to loosen the concrete, then turn it upside down and tap until the planter slides out
- If the molds are stubborn, you can cut plastic containers away as a last resort
8. Finishing Touches
- Sand any rough edges or imperfections with 220-grit sandpaper
- Rinse your planter thoroughly to remove concrete dust
- Let it dry completely
9. Optional: Seal Your Planter
If you plan to use your planter outdoors, applying a concrete sealer will protect it from the elements and extend its life.
Creative Variations
Color and Texture
You can add concrete colorant to the mix before pouring, or paint your planters after they've cured. For texture, try pressing leaves, fabric, or lace into the wet concrete surface.
Decorative Elements
Consider adding a metallic rim by dipping the top edge in gold or copper paint. Or create geometric patterns using masking tape and spray paint.
Marbled Effect
Mix small amounts of concrete with different colorants, then gently swirl them together (without fully combining) for a marbled look.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Cracks in Your Planter
Cracks usually occur when the concrete dries too quickly. To prevent this, keep your planter in a cool place while curing and consider covering it with a damp cloth.
Difficulty Removing from Molds
If you're having trouble removing your planter from the molds, try placing it in the freezer for a few hours. The concrete and plastic contract at different rates, making separation easier.
Uneven Surface
For a smoother finish, make sure your concrete mix is well combined and tap the mold several times during pouring to eliminate air bubbles.
Caring for Your Concrete Planters
Concrete is porous and can absorb water, potentially leading to staining or deterioration over time. Here are a few care tips:
- Use a saucer under your planter to catch excess water
- For outdoor use, ensure proper drainage and consider using a concrete sealer
- Clean with mild soap and water when needed
- Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the concrete
Conclusion
Creating your own concrete planters is a rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize size, shape, and appearance to suit your home's aesthetic. With practice, you can develop your own unique style and techniques.
Ready to try more advanced concrete projects? Consider joining one of our workshops where we explore techniques like embedded objects, two-tone casting, and surface treatments using acid stains.
We'd love to see your creations! Share your DIY concrete planters with us on social media using #ApposodierDIY.