Craftiness: DIY Swan Succulent Planters

DIY Swan Succulent Planters

I don’t think I’m alone when I say that succulents are some of the few plants I can keep alive. I love all the cute little succulent varieties, and I can’t help but add to my collection. Another thing I’ve been collecting are these miniature swan favors. I’ve found different sizes and shapes at discount stores and thrift shops, and they are too adorable to leave behind. The finish on them is usually a bit tacky, though, so I gave these beauties a quick DIY makeover and turned them into planters for my little succulents.

Right now, I have these lined up along my windowsill, but they’re perfect centerpieces for a spring gathering, too. Or keep them as favors and give them as gifts to your party guests! —Kathleen

Supplies:

-Plastic swan wedding favors (similar styles here, here and here)

-gesso primer

-paint (and metallic nail polish)

-paintbrushes

Step 1: Prime the outside (and inside, if desired) of the swans using the gesso primer. Let dry completely.

swanplanter.step1 — Step 2: Paint the swans black or white over the primer and let dry.

Step 3: Use a fine paintbrush to paint in the beak and eye details. I used metallic nail polish for the beaks. Let dry.

Step 4: Pot your succulents into the planters. I used a piece of foil to line the cavity so that the succulent wouldn’t be sitting on a painted interior. You could also use a small vessel like a disposable plastic shot glass and poke holes in the bottom if your plants need more drainage. Or just poke holes in the bottom with a needle or thumbtack. Or if you don’t have a green thumb, fake succulents would work, too!