How To Reuse Old Mugs To Make Charming Planters For The Garden

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Although gardening trends cycle through social media, influencing what we see in yards, gardeners also enjoy putting their own flair into their outdoor spaces. The next time you buy new plants, browse your local thrift shop for something to turn into an eye-catching container (perhaps a toilet used as a planter?). Not only is this route affordable and eco-friendly, but you'll also end up with something you won't see in anyone else's yard.

For small plants, in particular plants for shallow pots, consider this charming idea that strings together old mugs that have been repurposed into plant containers. Mugs come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so you could group multiple shades of a single color, or choose drinkware around a specific theme, like animals, abstract designs, or inspirational quotes. To avoid too much maintenance, find plants that grow slowly and don't mind being root-bound, and consider a succulent vine for visual interest. Just make sure the plants require similar light conditions since they will be hanging together. 

Find a place where you can easily delight in seeing your handiwork each day. The planters can dangle freely from a deck overhang, hang straight down against a wall, or drape like a garland across an outdoor railing. Or if you don't want them tied together with string, you can hang each mug individually from a row of hooks.

As straightforward as this project may seem, the caveat is that mugs don't come with drainage holes, which are essential to the health of a plant. Without proper drainage, a plant will sit in wet soil, increasing the chance of root rot. Thankfully, drilling through a ceramic mug is a simple project. Use carbide-tipped drill bits with your drill or, for larger holes, use diamond drill bits. To prep, tape an X on the bottom of the mug and mark your desired spot for the hole. Rest your mug on something soft, like a foam piece or a folded towel, for minimal impact. Keep the mug moist as you drill to prevent the bit from burning and to minimize dust. Patience is key here. Drill slowly, with light pressure, and go even slower as you get closer to breaking through.

Next, tie one handle to another, leaving at least 6 inches of string between each mug. Choose a colored paracord, like Paracord Planet's nylon cord, for a modern vibe, or go for a more rustic look with Tenn Well's natural jute twine. Remember that attaching the mugs by their handles will leave them askew. If you want the planters to sit upright, make a simple macrame hanger for each mug and connect the hangers, one over the other. Once your mugs are tied together, set them flat on a table to fill with plants and soil — but not to the brim. You don't want the soil spilling out once the planter is hung up and the mugs are slightly tilted.