DIY An Affordable Planter That Looks So High-End With A Pool Noodle & Dollar Tree Supplies

Who knew that a little Dollar Tree foam noodle could have more uses beyond belly flops and sword fights between 6-year-olds? Well, these everyday pool noodles can be turned into something spectacular that you can use around your home or in your garden — boho-chic planters. You might be surprised by how many common household items you can turn into beautiful planters by using a little creativity. 

In fact, if you're looking for a bit of inspiration, you can find several stunning DIY planter ideas on social media platforms such as TikTok or Pinterest. And like many DIY hacks, this pool noodle planter is super affordable and is easy to make. So if you've been wanting to create a planter on a budget, look no further. The main materials you need for this project are your pool noodle, a large empty coffee can, and a couple cans of spray paint. Essentially, this DIY involves using the pool noodle to create a stylish design on the coffee can. 

A pool noodle, which is also the least expensive of your purchases, only costs $1.25 at Dollar Tree. You can buy a large can of coffee online for about $12 to $15, depending on your preferred brand (if you even drink coffee, that is). Or ask around to see if the coffee drinkers in your life have an empty can. You can also use other large, cylindrical containers. Just make sure that the can is a decent size — so no smaller than 25 ounces. To paint the project, you can use spray paint you already have or pick up new spray paint in your preferred colors. In addition to these items, you'll also need a box cutter, tape, and either a tarp sheet or a box to cover your paint area.

Start by cleaning your coffee can. Set the lid aside. Then, open your pool noodle by cutting a slit down the length of it with the box cutter. Next, lay the noodle down horizontally, and then cut it down the middle into two equal-sized pieces. Each section should be long enough to wrap around the can. Take one of the pieces, pry it open a bit with your fingers, and wrap it around the top of the coffee can, with the open side facing the can. 

While holding the pool noodle in place, use a pen to mark the noodle where it needs to be cut so that the edges meet around the can without any slack. Then, cut the noodle at the mark, and check the fit by placing the pool noodle around the can again. Next, remove the noodle from the can, and bend it into a circle, aligning the edges. Place a piece of tape around the edges to bind them. Perform these same steps for the other noodle piece. Once both pieces are prepared, slide them over the can. 

Now it's time to paint the pool noodles and the coffee can lid. You can paint them the same color or contrasting colors. A classic, chic combination is black for the pool noodles and gold for the lid, but you can choose any color scheme you want. Place your new planter on the tarp in an open or well-ventilated area. Next, spray the outside of the planter with the spray paint. Then, apply your metallic paint to the lid. Once both pieces are dry, place the lid on the bottom of the planter.

If you want to make your own version of this hack, you can swap the pool noodles for thick rope or even leather wraps to upgrade it. An empty paint can may also work as a substitute for the coffee canister. However, you will need to measure it, as it'll likely be taller than the coffee can. If it is, you can swap the big pool noodles for mini ones, creating the look of handmade terracotta pots. The only downside is that you won't have the fancy gold bottom. 

You can also paint the pool noodles in different accent colors to help the planter blend in with your space. Consider colors like light peach or green to curate a natural, earthy vibe. Perhaps add a few rows of wine bottle corks or wooden pieces to the bottom of the planter to help elevate it, making it more noticeable among your other plants. You can also attach other embellishments to the pool noodles to personalize the look.

When you have the finished look you want, place a plant inside the coffee can. You can also use it for faux flowers or as a storage container for random objects around the house.