The Creative Leap it Took
The creative leap it took to conceive of old filing cabinets being upcycled into outdoor planters was indeed a stroke of genius. At a casual glance, the vertical metal drawer cabinet looks nothing like a planter. You probably think of them as existing in an office location, not outdoors. They are full of files, folders, and sheets of dry paper, not green verdant plants. But when looking at the price of large planters, you might begin to wonder if there is not a clever alternative. Let the inspiration happen, and take some inexpensive filing cabinets and turn them into sleek, modern-looking planters.
The Price of Large Planters
Large planters can be quite expensive, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality, durable option. A single large planter can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the size, material, and brand. However, with a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can create a beautiful planter out of an old filing cabinet for a fraction of the cost.
The Drawers of the Filing Cabinet
When it comes to upcycling an old filing cabinet, the drawers play a crucial role. You’ll need to remove the drawers and set them aside, but don’t worry, you won’t be throwing them away. You can repurpose them in other creative ways, such as turning them into a planter for small herbs or succulents. Sometimes, the drawers can be repaired or refinished to make them look like new again.
The Creative Leap it Took
The creative leap it took to conceive of old filing cabinets being upcycled into outdoor planters is a testament to the power of imagination and creativity. It’s a perfect example of how something old and discarded can be transformed into something new and beautiful. With a little bit of ingenuity and some basic DIY skills, you can create a stunning garden planter out of an old filing cabinet.
Upcycling Filing Cabinets: A Beginner’s Guide
Upcycling an old filing cabinet into a garden planter is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can add a unique touch to your outdoor space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Remove the Drawers
The first step is to remove the drawers from the filing cabinet. This will give you access to the rectangular opening where the drawers once were. You can set the drawers aside for now, or repurpose them in other creative ways.
Step 2: Lay the Cabinet on its Back
Once you’ve removed the drawers, lay the filing cabinet on its back. This will become the bottom of your planter. Make sure the cabinet is stable and secure before proceeding.
Step 3: Cut the Crosspieces
Using a hacksaw or sheet metal shears, cut the sheet metal crosspieces that divide the rectangular opening where the drawers once were. This will give you a clear view of the space and allow you to add soil and plants.
Step 4: Remove Sharp Edges
Using a metal file or sandpaper, remove any sharp edges or burrs created when you cut out the crosspieces. This will ensure that your planter is safe and easy to use.
Step 5: Add a Bottom (if necessary)
If the filing cabinet doesn’t have a bottom, you’ll need to add one. You can have your hardware store cut a piece of sheet metal to the size needed to fit in the space. Secure it with a construction adhesive like Liquid Nails.
Step 6: Paint the Cabinet
To protect the planter from rust and discoloration, paint the cabinet with an exterior paint. Choose a color that complements your backyard decor or get creative with bright colors for a statement piece.
Step 7: Drill Drainage Holes
Drill some drainage holes through the bottom of the planter to prevent water from accumulating. This will ensure that your plants stay healthy and happy.
Step 8: Add Soil and Plants
Finally, it’s time to add soil and plants to your planter. You don’t need to fill the entire cabinet with soil, as this can be impractical. Instead, lay the drawers in the opening to take up space and pack some other items around them, then add a thick layer of landscape fabric. Fill the remaining cavity with soil, and you’re ready to start planting.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to consider when upcycling an old filing cabinet into a garden planter:
- Use a variety of plants, such as succulents, herbs, or flowers, to create a unique and colorful display.
- Add a trellis or other support system to help your plants grow and thrive.
- Use a self-watering system to make maintenance easier and more efficient.
- Add a decorative top or lid to create a unique and eye-catching planter.
- Use a combination of materials, such as wood and metal, to create a unique and eclectic planter.
Conclusion
Upcycling an old filing cabinet into a garden planter is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can add a unique touch to your outdoor space. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can transform an old and discarded piece of furniture into a stunning and functional planter. So why not give it a try? With these step-by-step instructions and some imagination, you can create a beautiful and functional planter out of an old filing cabinet.
Atomic Facts:
- Old filing cabinets can be repurposed into outdoor planters.
- Filing cabinets are often available for sale at reasonable prices online.
- Filing cabinets can be found for free online or on the street during community pickup days.
- The drawers of the filing cabinet do not need to function properly for conversion.
- A bottom may need to be added to the planter if it does not already have one.
- Exterior paint should be used to protect the planter from rust and discoloration.
- Drainage holes should be drilled through the bottom of the planter.
- Only a portion of the cabinet needs to be filled with soil.
References:
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