Coffee Can Garden

Do you drink a lot of coffee? Well, if so, it’s more than likely that you have some metal coffee cans on hand. What do coffee cans have to do with herb gardening? Plenty, because with just a little bit of effort (and that coffee can) you can make your family and friends a pretty and useful handmade gift.

The first thing you need to do is wash out your can, peeling off any labels. Then, apply a coat of metal primer to your can. After you’ve let the primer thoroughly dry, apply a coat of bright acrylic paint to the can.

Decorating Ideas

Now the fun really begins! After you’ve painted your can, you can decorate it. One idea is to apply crackle medium, then add a top coat of color. With a deep blue undercoat and a rich red overcoat, this effect will make your can beautiful.

Want to add a little bug or garden tool design onto the can? Because the can has a curved surface you’ll need to use flexible rubber stamps. Apply a light coat of acrylic paint to the stamp, press the stamp onto the can, and then carefully roll the stamp so that the whole image is stamped onto the can. Don’t worry if you mess up, because you can start over by just wiping the stamped image off the can.

Decoupage is another great decorative technique for your painted can. Cut pictures from magazines or use empty seed packets with pretty artwork, decoupage them to the can arranging them any way you prefer.

After you’ve finished your decoration, apply a coat of sealer to the can. Add a second coat of sealer (let the first coat dry) if the can is going to be used outside.

Prepare For Planting

To prepare for planting, turn the can upside down. Use a 3-inch nail and a hammer to poke drainage holes in the bottom. Then turn the can over, filing it to just an inch below the rim with good potting soil.

Now you are ready to plant some herbs in the can. Some great choices are basil, chives, parsley, oregano and thyme. Or, if you prefer, a lovely scented geranium in the can would make a great gift.

Finishing Touches

For a special finishing touch, attach a tag (with a simple florist pick) that includes information about caring for the herb garden, along with a few great recipes.

Do you have a do-it-yourselfer on your gift list? That’s not a problem; instead of adding potting soil herbs, add gardening gloves, a garden trowel, a packet of seeds, a box of tea and even a package of tea biscuits.