Using recycled aluminum cans as planters is a crafty way to teach children the beauty of earth as well as the yumminess and freshness of growing their own herbs and vegetables. Your cute little planter projects can last all summer long! Your children can watch their plants grow as they take care of “their” plant. Have them water their plant and show them how to check to see if the soil is too dry or just right by gently touching the soil surface with their finger. And your child will be so proud to see you use the fruits (or herbs in this case) of his/her effort when you prepare a family meal.
What you will need:
- Empty Aluminum Can -Screwdriver and Hammer
- Liquid gesso (recommended: Liquitex Basics Gesso)
- Acrylic craft pains in colors of your choice
- Acrylic sealer spray, matte finish
- Craft Stick - Thin cardboard
- Pinking shears - Black permanent market
- 5 to 10 small rocks, stones or pebbles
- 1.5 cups potting soil
- 4-inch potted herb plant - White craft glue
- Water - Flower sticks (optional)
How to make it:
Completely wash and dry aluminum can (peel off label first). If necessary, sand off any rough edges from can opening.
Turn can upside down. Parent should use screwdriver or other pointed object to poke holes in the bottom of the can. Use a hammer to tap the end of the screwdriver to make the holes.
Paint the outside of can with one coat of gesso. Let dry completely. Paint can in the desired color, repeat coats if needed.
Decorate however you like. Use a thin paint brush for long lines, dip the end of the paint brush into paint for polka dots.
Decorate with stickers if you wish.
In a well ventilated area, spray the outside of the decorated can with acrylic sealer spray. Let dry.
Place enough rocks or pebbles in the bottom of the can to form a single layer.
Add enough potting soil to fill the can two-thirds full. Remove potted herb from its container and transplant into the can.
Fill edges with remaining potting soil, gently pat down so that plant is fimrly in the can but not compacted so much that it's too tight.
Place can on a plate (to catch any water drainage) and add some water to the newly planted herbs.
Paint craft stick whatever color you like. Allow to dry. Cut a piece of thin cardboard into a small rectangle (about 1.5 X 3 inches) using pinking shears. Paint both sides of the cardboard with gesso, let dry.
Use permanent marker to write the herb name onto the rectangle. Glue rectangle to the top of the craft stick.
Insert stick gently into the soil being careful not to crush any root material.
Place your garden in a sunny window and water regularly.
Share your craft ideas with Macaroni Military Family ... send your idea to carolp@macaronikid.com
