• Problem: Terracotta flower pots are expensive in this country, and I’m not big on the plastic kind. I can recycle cans, but then they’ll look ugly.
• Solution: Scrapbook paper and Modge Podge!

Here’s a step-by-step tutorial for what I made today… the beginnings of our burgeoning urban balcony container garden.

Step 1 - Empty the right-sized can. In this country, tomato paste only comes in mammoth-sized cans (no idea why). So I emptied a can, and stored the paste in 1/2 cup portions in the freezer.

Step 2 – Cut drainage slits in the bottom with a can opener.

Step 3 – Cut a piece of scrapbook paper to size. I cut it to sit flush with the bottom lip and then fold over the top (I later changed my mind and cut the top flush with the upper lip).

Step 4 - Glue the paper to the can. I used basic Elmer’s glue and a paint brush to cover the surface. My goal was not perfection when I stuck the paper to the can – wrinkles and unevenness is good here, in my opinion.

Step 5 – Be creative with your available supplies! Then paint the outside with Modge Podge, which is a sealer that dries clear. This waterproofs the surface.

Step 6 – When the Modge Podge dries, fill with soil and your plant. Here’s my newly purchased basil on display in a lovely orange with brown polka dots. I’m using a plastic plate for drainage, but I’m hoping to find something else more creative and eye-catching. To the right is my 3-year-old daughter’s contribution, where we’ll probably grow basic grass, just for fun. We also Modge Podged her handprint for a splash of originality.

This can be done with all kinds of medium – look for fun images in magazines, wrapping paper, even fabric remnants. My plan is to scour for bigger cans and tubs to plant my larger plants, and then Modge Podge it all for a cohesive-yet-funky look.

Problem solved! A cheap, green alternative to overpriced terracotta or ugly plastic, and I get to expunge my creative juices with my daughter. A fun afternoon project.

Head over to Crystal to find more frugal ideas.

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