An Old Copper Jello Mold Gets a New Use in the Backyard!

4 Materials
$15
15 Minutes
Easy
Sometimes I stroll through the thrift store and pick out items that catch my eye, even if I don't exactly know what I'm going to do with it when I buy it. This copper mold was one of those purchases, but once I put my patio umbrella through it to test if it would fit, I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it!
Of course, the hole on this pan was large enough to fit my umbrella pole. I've found the holes of most bundt pans are too small to fit an umbrella, but these molds with large holes work great.
I drilled holes in the bottom of the pan for drainage. Succulents love well-drained soil, so since I planned to keep this outside, I knew I needed holes.
I have an entire post on how to best plant succulents, along with the tricks on how to keep them alive for a long, long time. I know I said that succulents love well-drained soil and it's best to use a container with holes, but I've actually figured out a way to plant them in containers without any drainage holes, too. Everything you need to know about planting and caring for succulents is in that post. I'd love for you to come check it out, and let me know if you have other tricks in the comments of the post.
I added a variety of different succulents to the pan,
and placed my umbrella pole through the hole.
They are loving their sunny patio location and I'm loving how cute they look in this copper mold!


If you love upcycled and repurposed projects, I think you'll love some of my other projects. You can check out all my other upcycled projects here.
Jenny @ Refresh Living
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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3 of 4 questions
  • Alyson Fiala Alyson Fiala on Jul 06, 2017

    Doesn't copper kill plants?

  • Barbara Mace Garitty Barbara Mace Garitty on Jul 15, 2017

    Awesome idea! What is your suggestion for a glass topped table? Btw..I've spent a boatload on planters for my umbrella/patio table over the years...have always had a glass topped table. I love to put the umbrella planters on my lazy susan!!!

  • Wanda J Morecraft Keenan Wanda J Morecraft Keenan on Feb 03, 2018

    What kind of soil?

Comments
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2 of 71 comments
  • Heidi Heidi on Apr 11, 2019

    Can't wait to get started! Now I just need to pick which beautiful color to use 😊

  • Maggie Maggie on May 04, 2019

    Old glass ceiling light fixtures are also useable as planters. Look for ones with one hole in the center for drainage. Being able to put this one around the pole is really great! Sure hope it starts to show patina!

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