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DIY Milk Carton Planter

by on Aug 31, 2010

Don’t throw away those half-gallon cartons! With a little glue and jute twine they can be transformed into attractive (and surprisingly sturdy) little planters. Here’s how to do it:

#1: Mark a cutting line around the outside of the milk carton. This little pot is 3 inches tall, but any height will work.

#2: Use scissors or a knife to cut along the line you marked in #1. Toss the upper portion in the recycling.

#3: Spread a thin, even coat of white glue over the outside walls (but not the bottom) of the carton.

#4: Set the glue covered carton on a table-top protected with newspaper. Begin wrapping the twine around the glue covered carton, starting at the bottom. On the very first row, tie a half hitch to keep the twine in place.

Rotate the carton to wrap the twine, rather that manipulate the roll of twine around and around the carton. If the glue begins to dry, just smooth on more where it is needed. As you wrap, push down on the rows to make sure there are no gaps between the rows of twine.

#5: When you are one or two rows from the top, apply a bead of glue to the outside top edge. If some glue drips on the existing rows, just wipe it away with your finger. Carefully press the top rows in place. Leave a tail on the twine, cover it with glue and tuck it inside the planter. Use binder clips or clothes pins to secure the top rows while the glue dries.

Note: You may wish to punch holes in the bottom of the planter for drainage.

created at: 08/30/2010