Buy or DIY this Wooden Succulent Box
Here is a wonderful gift that you can buy or make to give to a loved one or friend this festive season.
29/11/2022
Shopping for gifts for family and friends when you are running on a tight budget it not the most enjoyable way to shop. I know that I love being able to shop for things that everyone will love and enjoy, and even though I don't have a lot to spend, every little bit makes a difference. I have also come to realise that gifts made with love will always be more special than bought items, especially when a lot of thought goes into the gift. This cute succulent arrangement in a reclaimed wood box is one that I really think will be appreciated and you can buy it from Cape Garden Centre and a steal at R420, including 5-6 succulent varieties - https://www.capegardencentre.co.za - or you can make your own following the step-by-step instructions below.
For the more advanced DIYer, there is always an opportunity to switch up this project into different designs and shapes.
YOU WILL NEED:
Assorted succulents in small containers
Scrap wood or reclaimed pallet wood
Waterproof wood glue
Panel pins
120-grit sandpaper
Piece of plastic
Dried straw or moss
TOOLS:
Handsaw, jigsaw, or power saw
Hammer or pneumatic nail gun or stapler
Clamps
Tape measure and pencil
Safety gear
HERE'S HOW:
Step 1
Collect all the scrap wood you will need to make the box. The older or more aged the wood - the better. You want the finished box to resemble one that is vintage or old, to add that extra touch of charm and whimsy. Cut all the wood to length, using the image above as a guide, to make any size of box you want. Make sure that the length and width will accommodate the size of the containers that the succulents are planted in.
Step 2
Assemble the wooden box using waterproof wood glue, hammer, and panel pins. Don't be stingy with the glue but do wipe away any glue that oozes out with a damp cloth. It is important to clamp the joined pieces overnight or you can wrap them with masking or painter's tape. Use 120-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough edges.
Step 3
Lay the piece of plastic over the inside bottom of the box to prevent any leakage and then place the succulent containers inside the box and cover these with dried straw or moss to hide the containers. By making the gift this way, the recipient has the choice to keep the succulents in the box or plant them outside.
There are plenty of materials that can be put to good use for this type of project. What about using salvaged skirting boards or wooden mouldings or trim, or even an old fence? What a great way to make use of these materials. You can also design your own unique succulent planter using any available scrap materials that you have, and if you don't have any, ask family and friends if they know of someone who can assist.
Feed your creative urges, get crafty with your tools, and make gifts this year. If you take the time to lovingly craft them, they will be truly appreciated.