How to transform a car tire into a giant flowerpot

With spring just around the corner, there are many hobby gardeners out there thinking about what they're going to do in their gardens this year. This planning obviously involves the types of plants they'll buy, but decoration and presentation also play an important role. And that's when it's time to think about flowerpots.

But before running out to the nearest nursery or building center, you might want to consider a more DIY approach. One way is to make use of any old tires you or your neighbors might have lying around. And here's how you can do it...

You'll need:

  • car tires
  • chalk
  • a large, sharp knife
  • paint

Warning: Be careful! Cutting this type of material with a sharp knife can be dangerous. Make sure to take your time and have someone help you if you don't have experience with this kind of project.

Here's how:

Use the chalk to draw the pattern you want to cut. This will become the rim of the flowerpot.

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Now cut along the chalk line. Cutting through this material requires strength and takes some time. Again, if possible, have someone there to help you.

When the pattern is cut, turn the tire inside out. This isn't easy either, so expect to take 10 to 15 minutes for this part. But it'll be worth it, just wait.

YouTube/ProjectGreenTV

At this point you can go back over the rim and refine the pattern with some finer cutting. 

YouTube/ProjectGreenTV

Now it's time for the finishing touch: some color. Make sure to use exterior paint that won't wear off after a few rainfalls.

YouTube/ProjectGreenTV

Who'd have thought that an old tire could be turned into something so fun and colorful? Once you make one, chances are you'll want to make a whole bunch more.

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Watch all the steps again in this video...

Here are some great examples of old car tires being "upcycled" — they might just inspire your own unique creation. As you'll see, sometimes you don't even have to do any cutting... 

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So why not spruce up your garden with some colorful homemade flowerpots this year? It's a great way to put those old tires to use and create a unique garden landscape that'll be the envy of all your neighbors!

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