Woman Turns An Old Bucket Into A Stunning Backyard Water Feature With A Simple DIY

A water feature can do wonders for your outdoor space by adding to its decorative appeal and filling it with the tranquil sound of running water. However, the average fountain goes for hundreds of dollars online. There are budget-friendly options, but they're typically smaller or the solar-powered kind that you stick in a water basin and that rely on sunlight to operate. 

If you want to turn your backyard into an oasis but can't justify spending a ton of money, there might be an affordable DIY method to try instead. Helena's Craft Barn on YouTube made a video on how to make a rustic fountain using a watering can, a bucket, and a bit of creativity. One commenter called the result "Super Zen". Overall, it seems like a low-stakes DIY project with the potential for a big impact. In total, the project may cost around $50, which is a steal when you compare the finished result to similar products on the market. 

Helena used a watering can and bucket for the main parts of the fountain. As for the river rocks, you can get a bag from Home Depot for just over $10. Walmart sells a $32.99 submersible fountain pump that comes with a water hose. The PVC pipe used appears to be double the height of the bucket, so a 2-foot-long ½-inch PVC pipe, like this one from Home Depot, should work. You'll also need two 90-degree-angle pieces of pipe to redirect the water flow. A few zip ties are necessary to stabilize the pipe and hide the electrical cord. The faux succulents can be purchased from a dollar store.

In addition to the fountain components, the project requires a power drill and a step drill bit to create the hole in the bottom of the watering can on the side closest to the spout. You might also need an extension cord depending on where you want to put the fountain and how close it is to an outdoor outlet. Elevate the overall appearance by spray painting the PVC pipe and pump cord to match seamlessly with the color of the bucket and watering can. You can also use string lights or a faux greenery garland to achieve the cutest DIY water fountain look while hiding less aesthetic elements.

If you're repurposing an old bucket, make sure the watering can is proportionate to its size. If the bucket is too small in diameter compared to the neck of the watering can, it could direct the water closer to the edges of the bucket, which could cause it to lose water. As a solution, opt for a container with a large opening to keep water from splashing off the sides. 

When shopping for a watering can, keep an eye out for one with a short spout (so it won't overshoot the bucket) and a sprinkler head on the end. This combo, with the added height of the PVC pipe, will allow for a distinct yet gentle water sound. You also need to consider whether you want to fill the bucket to the brim with rocks or just around the base of the fountain pump. This will influence the intensity of the water sounds.