Vintage Enamel Colander Hanging Planter

15 Minutes
Easy
An old enameled colander that is too rusty to use in the kitchen is PERFECT for repurposing as a DIY hanging planter. Click HERE for my full blog post and all the DIY details!
I kept seeing these wonderful vintage enameled colanders in antiques stores and vintage shops, and thought "Wouldn't that make a wonderful planter?". I mean, it has built-in drainage holes!
After finding the perfect one for the perfect price, I set about repurposing it. First step- I clipped a carabiner to each handle.
To keep the carabiner locked in place, I secured it with heavy gauge craft wire. This way, it won't slide around and will stay in an upright position.
Before adding soil and flowers, I added a layer of cheese cloth. Why? It won't impede the drainage, but it'll help keep soil and roots from poking through. Click HERE for my full tutorial and additional DIY details!
After adding potting soil and flowers, I clipped a length of chain to each carabiner, end to end, and hung it from my front porch. Isn't it lovely? And I have a GREAT pro tip for hanging it on my blog- be sure to check out how I ensure even sunlight for my planter!
Sadie Seasongoods
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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  2 questions
  • Vre28112441 Vre28112441 on Sep 18, 2017

    Instead of cheesecloth, I have some old, runny pantyhose. Would that do?

  • Sheila Blair Cain Sheila Blair Cain on May 03, 2022

    I did this last year but the dirt dries out too quickly. I didn't line the colander with anything. Does the lining help to keep some moisture in?

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  • Stolzy Stolzy on Jul 20, 2020

    This is a great idea. I've got 2 old ones with the old star pattern.

    I've used coffee filters and have had no problems.

    Thsnk for the great idea.

  • Linda Hughes Linda Hughes on Jul 24, 2021

    Can also use a basket shaped coco fiber liner in there, would hold up well.

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