Skip to main content
Bunnings Warehouse
Lowest Price Policy^
Free delivery* withOnePass_Icon.svg

How to make a D.I.Y. textured planter plinth

By Bunnings magazine /

Bedroom with earthy tones and a geometric feature wall

Overview

Today’s specialty paints make it easier than ever to undertake amazing D.I.Y. projects – like this textured planter plinth. Lightweight planters can find new life as stone-look plinths. Simply spread out a drop sheet, grab a brush and get creative.

Stack round or square planters to make a plinth, adding a top cut from MDF, and texturise the finish with a paint additive. The materials here are for a 610mm-high rounded plinth.

Tip: Try using angular plastic pots. Use three if the pots are tall.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Cut a top for the plinth

    To make a top for the plinth, mark around the rim of a 310mm low bowl planter on the MDF panel. Cut with a jigsaw and smooth around the edges with 180-grit abrasive paper.
    A person uses a jigsaw to cut an MDF panel to shape
  2. 2

    Stack and glue the planters

    Beginning with a planter that’s upside down, top and tail four planters to make a stack, applying construction adhesive between the bases and around the rims, pressing them together to hold.

    Construction adhesive on the rims of the bases of planters
  3. 3

    Glue on the MDF top

    Apply adhesive around the rim of the top planter. Centre the MDF top and press down to secure. Wipe away excess adhesive from all joints with a damp cloth and leave to dry.

    An MDF panel secured to a planter top with construction adhesive
  4. 4

    Seal the plinth

    Apply flexible gap sealer around the joints between the planters, smoothing it with a caulking tool. Remove the excess with a clean, damp cloth and leave to dry.

    Four planters secured together to create a D.I.Y. plinth
  5. 5

    Prime and paint

    Apply primer over the plinth with a 50mm paintbrush and leave to dry. Apply a first coat of interior paint with the same brush and leave to dry.

    A person paints a D.I.Y. planter plinth in a light green colour
  6. 6

    Apply the textured finish

    In a small bucket, combine 500ml interior paint with 20 scoops of paving grip additive, stirring well. Apply two coats with the tip of a chalk brush in a stippled effect, leaving to dry between each coat.

    A person uses a chalk brush to create a textured surface on a planter pot
  7. 7

    Keep in mind:

    • When painting, always use a drop sheet to protect the surrounding area from spills or overspray, and always paint in a well-ventilated area or outside.
    • Projects are for indoor use only.
    • Plinths are intended for decorative purposes only and are not to be used as seating.

    Timbers may vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

  8. 8

    Want more D.I.Y. project inspiration?

    Visit our D.I.Y. Advice page for a huge variety of handy how-tos, inspiration, expert tips and D.I.Y. guides.

     

    Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

    Photo Credit: Belinda Merrie. Project, styling and steps photography by Sam van Kan. Styling assistant: Faith Tapsell.

    Bedroom with earthy tones and a geometric feature wall

Get inspired by projects from the Bunnings Workshop community

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.