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How to make a concrete planter

Overview

You can make the perfect planter to suit any size indoor plant with this easy project. We’ll take you through the steps to make a cement planter, and show you how to paint them to match your decor.

Steps

1

Cut the PVC pipe

You can make your planter as tall as you want. Measure and mark for the height of the pot on the PVC pipe. Wrap masking tape around the pipe where you need to cut, to help the saw grip. Clamp the pipe to the workbench and cut it with the handsaw.
A person sawing through PVC pipe using a hacksaw

2

Cut the pipe lengthways

Clamp the pipe to the workbench and cut it lengthways. This will allow you to remove the mould when the cement is set. Then put the pipe back together with masking tape so that cement doesn't leak.
A person sawing lengthwise through PVC pipe using a hacksaw

3

Make the inner cavity

Use a paper towel holder to make the inner cavity in the pot. Wrap masking tape around one end of the roll to stop cement getting in. Don't put the tape too far up though, the tube needs to absorb the moisture and be easy to remove once the cement is set.
A person putting tape around the end of a paper towel roll

4

Mark the tube

Mark the tube with a pencil at the depth that you want it to sit in the cement mould. It's best to do this now, so that when the mould is full of cement, you know how far to push the tube in.
A person measuring a paper towel roll against a length of PVC pipe

5

Mix the cement

You can use any colour or type of cement you like. We used real white, so that when we paint it the colours will stand out. We also added some quick set to ensure a quicker set. Mix your cement according to the instructions on the back of the pack. Add the water slowly. It needs to be about the same consistency as porridge. Make sure you wear the appropriate safety equipment when mixing the cement.
A person mixing white cement with water in a bucket

6

Fill the mould with cement

Sit the mould on form ply, plastic or a smooth, flat material that won't absorb moisture. Use a scraper or filling blade to fill the mould with cement. Don't fill it right to the top because when the paper towel tube goes into the centre to make the cavity for the soil, it will displace some of the cement. Tap the top with the cardboard tube to remove any air bubbles. Insert the cardboard tube in the centre of the mould, down to the mark. Leave the cement to cure.
Close up of a Bunnings team member filling a small container with cement

7

Remove the mould

Once the cement is cured, remove the inner cardboard tube and the outer mould. Then give the planter a light hand sand with 120 grit sandpaper. Use a masonry bit to carefully drill a hole in the base for drainage.
A person removing tape from a PVC pipe

8

Paint the planter

You can paint the planter in any colour or design you like. Once the paint is dry, it's time to plant it up using a good quality potting mix and the plant of your choice. These planters look great on their own or in a group. You can even use the planter as a tea-light holder.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.