Clearance Flower Planters Turned Into Umbrella Side Tables

I should have posted this project much earlier for the beginning of pool season instead of the end, but in Texas, our summer lasts thru October so we get long use out of our patio furnishing.

Like most of my projects, this one started with me wanting to replicate something I like for a whole lot less $$. The idea sprouted from this ad from Ballard Designs, I LOVE their things but am not too fond of their prices. $360 for one stand that would barely hold anything else was just too rich for my DIY blood. I knew that I wanted a much beefier version since we entertain a lot and I wanted it to have room for drinks and food, but I also wanted it to have a decorative base that would withstand all things that are Texas weather.

A quick trip to Lowes and I was able to find 2 large fiberglass planters on clearance since they were discontinued and the top of one was a little damaged. $60 total, which was a great price considering they were $75 a piece reg price. The curves and the decorative molding were exactly what I was looking for. The rust color would go well with the pool loungers.

2 Lowes buckets, quick dry cement, and PVC pipes would comprise the base. My amazing hubs measured and centered the PVC pipe and while I held it steady, he poured the mixed wet cement into the buckets. Texas wind is no joke so I wanted a very strong base that would not tip over.

We already had 2x2 travertine tiles and plywood from a previous project.

leftover trim pieces were screwed into the plywood to form a frame that would fit the top of the planter snugly and also give something to screw the side boards into, we adhered the tile to the plywood and let it dry overnight. We then cut a 2" hole in the center for the pole.

I purchased the brown plastic caps and rings on Amazon for $7. It gives the hole a finish and also keeps the pole from hitting the sides on windy days.

Adding leftover trim pieces to the sides to hide the raw edges.

After moving the planters to the exact spot we wanted them, we put the cement bucket inside the planter and put the top on, aligning the holes exactly.

Nice and sturdy. The planters do not move. The pole is down far enough that it does not blow around. We made them last summer and they are still going strong thru this one.

We made 2 of these umbrella tables to sit in between the loungers. The pillows and lounge cushions were also a DIY project. The fringe umbrellas were from Walmart.

Since we had leftover tile, plywood, and trim pieces already, it cut the cost down to about $50 per table. A great price for unique pieces. It was such an easy project I am sure I will do it again in the future when I want something different. Sometimes thinking out of the box turns out great!

Blessings,

Eden