This might look like a old rag, but the transformation is something else

As the weather starts to warm up, those with green thumbs - and those who wish they had them - start looking to the outdoors and thinking about our gardening bucket list. After the long winter, fresh air and sunlight comes calling. As you start planning your landscaping or decide to dive into a new gardening project, planters will suddenly be an important commodity in your home. They fill up fast and it seems like there can never be enough. But who wants a plain terra-cotta planter? Concrete and cement home decor and garden decor items are in season and can add an interesting contrast to the natural elements of your garden. 

If you’re itching to get your hands dirty but wish you had a dozen more planters, this project is for you. With plain cement mix and some of those towels you’ve been meaning to throw out, you can create your own collection of planters. We added a little pop of color to ours using spray paint, so don’t be afraid to express your individuality. Grab your spade and your towels! Before you know it, your garden will be the one to beat in the neighborhood. 

Materials
- Cement mix
- Large plastic bucket or tub
- Wooden dowel (for mixing cement)
- Towel
- Old cup or pail (for shaping your towel)
- Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra-Cover Paint and Primer Spray Paint
- Drop cloth (for spray painting)

Instructions
1. Start by mixing your cement in a large plastic bucket or tub.

Make sure to follow the directions on your package of cement mix. Try a quick-setting cement for faster turn-around time on your project. 

The consistency of the wet cement should look like the photo below.

2. Place your towel in the wet cement and be sure to thoroughly cover it.

Move your towel around to soak up as much of the cement as you can. 

3. Next, grab the container you want to use as your mold for the towel.

Place it upside down and drape the cement towel over it. Allow the cement towel to dry and set completely.

Tip: Remember that once your towel is in place, any wrinkle or fold will remain in the final cement planter. 

4. Once your cement towel is completely dry, remove the container from inside. Lay down your drop cloth and place your new cement planter upside down on top.

Use spray paint in the color of your choice to completely coat your planter. We used Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra-Cover Paint and Primer. 

5. Once the outside is thoroughly coated in your spray paint, flip the planter over and coat the inside with spray paint. 

6. Once your paint is totally dry, fill your planter with potting soil and your favorite plant for an upgrade to your outdoor space. 

Enjoy your new creation!