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Here’s how I turn regular plastic containers into handy, good-looking things for your home and garden. You’ll find 15 simple projects that help you save money, reduce waste, and keep your spaces a little neater and greener.
I try to keep instructions straightforward so you can pick something that matches your tools and mood. You’ll see ideas for planters, organizers, craft decor, and small garden solutions using stuff you probably already have.
1. Plastic Container Flower Pots with Painted Petals
I grab old plastic containers, cut the rims, and paint petal shapes around them.
Bright acrylics work best, and a little varnish keeps the colors from fading outside.
These pots come out cheerful and barely cost anything to make.
2. DIY Tissue Dispenser from a Plastic Container
I cut an opening in a clean container lid for tissues.
Some fabric or paper inside makes it look tidy.
Rolled or folded tissues go in, lid snaps on, and you’ve got an easy dispenser.
3. Stackable Desk Organizer Using Plastic Boxes
I stack clear plastic boxes to build a compact desk organizer.
Labels help me find pens, notes, and chargers without digging.
Velcro or tiny brackets keep the stacks from sliding around.
4. Painted Plastic Containers as Planters
I paint old containers to make cheap, colorful planters.
A quick sanding and primer help the paint stick.
A few drainage holes and some potting mix, and you’re set for happy plants.
5. Bird Feeder from a Cut Plastic Bottle
I cut a clean bottle, add little perches, and fill it with seed.
After hanging it up, I get to watch the birds drop by.
6. Hanging Herb Garden with Small Containers
I hang small cups or bottles to grow basil, mint, and chives by the kitchen window.
A few holes for drainage, some soil, and twine or a wood frame to hang them up.
It saves space and keeps fresh herbs right where I need them.
7. Decorative Storage Jars Painted and Labeled
I paint plastic jars for storage and slap on clear labels so I know what’s inside.
Acrylic paint works well, and stacking them on shelves keeps things tidy.
8. Seed Starter Trays from Small Plastic Containers
I cut and clean small containers for seed trays.
After poking a few drainage holes and adding potting mix, I label what’s what.
They fit on my windowsill and don’t cost a thing.
9. Plastic Bottle Flower Decorations
I cut bottles into petals, paint them, and glue on beads or wire for the centers.
Each flower turns out a little different, which I kind of love.
10. Pen and Pencil Holder from Recycled Containers
I turn jars, tin cans, and bottles into desk cups.
A quick wash, some paint or fabric, and a few glued-on decorations do the trick.
They hold pens and brushes and help keep clutter down.
11. Miniature Greenhouse using Clear Plastic Containers
I cut clear food containers to fit over seed trays and pots.
They let in light and keep the soil damp, so seedlings don’t dry out too fast.
When plants get bigger, I just pop the lids off for some air.
12. Jewelry Organizer with Multiple Plastic Compartments
I use small clear boxes with dividers to sort earrings, rings, and beads.
Stacking them lets me see everything at a glance.
It saves time and keeps things from tangling up.
13. Plastic Container Desk Drawer Dividers
I cut containers into strips to fit my drawer, then glue or tape them upright for quick compartments.
Pens, clips, cables—they all stay in their own little spots.
14. Upcycled Plastic Spoon Garden Markers
I paint or write plant names on old plastic spoons and stick them in pots or garden beds.
They’re cheap, last through the weather, and actually help me remember what I planted.
Kids can pitch in and decorate each one too.
15. Plastic Lid Wind Chimes
I grab a handful of colorful plastic lids, then drill little holes in each one for stringing.
I tie them at different lengths so they’ll click together when the wind picks up.
Kids can help out with this, and honestly, it’s a simple way to reuse lids while adding a bit of sound to the porch.
