How to Make Decorative Planter Boxes

Adding your own decorative touch to unfinished planter boxes is a great way to personalize planter boxes to display a miniature garden. Hand painted and stenciled boxes placed on the deck or patios create atmosphere and ambiance while serving their purpose of housing your plants as well. These delightful boxes can be as simple or as elaborate as your desire, but all follow the same basic principles and can be made to suit your individual tastes.

Things You'll Need

• Unfinished wooden planter box Exterior paint Primer Paint sealer Medium grade sand paper Stencils Stencil brush Masking tape

Instructions

1. Purchase unfinished window boxes or wooden plant boxes. These can be found in craft stores and in many garden supply stores. If you are handy with wood, or know someone who is, you can build a simple box from scrap lumber saving you the expense of purchasing one (see Resources for directions).

2. Decide on an overall color scheme and design. Browse the stencils in the craft store for ideas. Ivies and vines are always a good choice, but you may prefer geometric designs to create a particular feel to your planter. Flower stencils work well, if the plants you intend to grow are primarily for foliage. Choose stencils and colors that appeal to your sense of design, as the completed project should reflect your personal taste.

3. Sand the unfinished planter box and smooth all rough edges. Apply a coat of primer to the box and allow to dry. Paint with exterior paint in the base color. You can spray paint the box if you wish. Use smooth even coats and avoid drips. Always follow the directions on the can and work in a well-ventilated area. Allow paint to dry completely.

4. Select stencils and use a small section of tape to secure the stencil in the appropriate location. Masking tape may remove fresh paint. Stick the tape to the inside of the box, if possible. Use a stencil brush to complete the design.

5. Carefully remove the stencil and allow to dry completely. Spray with a coat of waterproof sealer to protect the design.

Resources

• Simple wooden planter box directions