16 DIY Planters to Get You Ready for Spring

Michelle Swift
Mar 11, 2015

Many of us who are still donning our winter parkas and shoveling snow may think it hard to fathom, but spring IS on its way, and with it comes color, blue sky and flowers. Start prepping now to spruce up your outdoor (or indoor) garden. And don’t worry; if you don’t have time for digging in the dirt, we’ve got a few other green thumb DIYs up our sleeves. Get your gardening gloves and trowel ready, ’cause once you see these DIY planters you’ll be ditching that snow shovel, ready to welcome spring with open arms… and planters.

1. Gold Patterned Planters: When in doubt, gild it out. These fun patterned planters are the perfect thing to bring a little shimmer to your collection. (via Brit + Co)

2. Radiant Orchid Wood Planter: Let your flowers, or in this case succulents, stand out in a brightly colored planter box. With a few 2x4s and a bit of sweat, you’ll have a box ready to be filled with anything from tulips to ranunculus. And who said we ever had to stop showing love to Pantone’s 2014 color, Radiant Orchid? (via Tatertots and Jello)

3. Pallet Living Wall: Pallet DIYs are nothing new for savvy crafters. Be the envy of neighbors by staying on trend with this modern vertical garden — it’s great for those short on space but big on botanicals. (via The Brew)

4. Metal Filing Cabinet Planter: You know the bulky metal cabinets that people used to store their files in before things went digital? Whatever you do, don’t throw them out. Instead, remove the drawers, flip ’em over, add some legs and a fun coat of paint and you have yourself a super creative flower box. (via Full Mooning)

5. Gold Leaf Pots: If it isn’t obvious by now: We kinda love gold leaf. We’ll stick it on just about anything (maybe even ourselves!?), and these easy peasy pots are no exception. (via Brit + Co)

6. Salvaged Shutters Box: This hack proves that you don’t need a lot of space to enjoy a bit of green. Look to your windowsills, decks, fences, balconies and walls to brighten things up a bit. Even some old shutters can become a welcoming home for your garden botanicals. (via Lila B Design)

7. Initial Letter Planters: Can you say crafty? Check out these awesome initial planters that are sure to bring an afternoon of merriment. DIY them up during a garden craft party with girlfriends or with the kiddos on a sunny weekend. (via Hello Natural)

8. Kitty Plant Pots: Take a guess at what these adorable cat planters are made with. You may have just found the cutest way to recycle plastic bottles. Set them on your front entrance for a sweet welcome. (via Bru DIY)

9. White Chalkboard Crates: These clever chalkboard crates are wearers of many hats, from storage to wedding centerpieces, or in this case, a planter to hold your spring blooms. (via Saved by Love Creations)

10. Vertical Gutter Garden: You know that vertical gardens are super hot right now, right? Create an eye-catching feature wall on your backyard fence or patio by aligning repurposed gutters to flaunt your pretty flowers. Can’t seem to come up with any gutters? Just use PVC pipe instead. (via BHG)

11. Crocodile Planter: “Alligator, crocodile, let’s get funky” — with flowers. This specific planter isn’t DIY (you can purchase it here), but you can totally make it on your own. A quick search through the kids’ old toys and you may find the perfect vessel for your gardening affairs. (via Desert Domicile)

12. Hanging Planter Garden: When space is critical, creativity must take over. This little gem is your ticket to enjoying your pretty maids all in a row. (via Brit + Co)

13. Coffee Bag Planter Pots: If you are sooo over the traditional terra cotta or plastic pots trying to look like terra cotta, ditch ’em and reach for these DIY, recycled, biodegradable and weather-resistant coffee bag planters instead. (via Apartment Therapy)

14. Narrow Planter Box: This traditional flower box is one that will stand the test of time in both craftsmanship and design. Perfect for porches and hanging under windows, this narrow planter is a smart DIY. (via Stark Insider)

15. Pallet Planter: Flowers are literally climbing the walls these days. Make it happen with this pallet planter that really gets things vertical. (via Kelly Moore)

16. Tin Can Fence Garden: You can garden with tin cans. Style them your way and simply nail them to a hard surface and you’ve got yourself a container fit for flowers, succulents, herbs — you name it. (via Ciera Design)

Calling all green thumbs! What are your creative takes on DIY planters? Fill us in here.

Doom Scrolling Is Making You Even More Anxious — How To Curb Your Bad Habit

I didn't know I was doom scrolling on social media until I had a nightmare I was being chased by oddly-shaped thought bubbles filled with conflicting ideology. It was enough to make me set screen limits for myself, but I wondered if other people were still struggling with the same thing I'd been doing.

According toDr. Dr. Mikki Lee, Psy.D.,Manhattan-based psychologist at Clarity Therapy NYC, she works "with many people with ADHD who struggle specifically with doom scrolling." If you're doom scrolling, it doesn't necessarily mean you're neurodivergent, but she's seen this phenomenon enough to know it's not another trendy word that'll come and go.

So Here's what these professionals know about doom scrolling — and how they wanna help you stop doing it!

Scroll to learn what doom scrolling is, how to recognize it, and steps to take to curb your new habit!

What does "doom scrolling" mean?

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"Doom scrolling" is exactly what it sounds like — an incessant amount of staring at social media feeds. From Dr. Lee's perspective, it's "when we continuously and compulsively scroll through negative news or distressing content on social media or news sites." The worst part is that she says "we often continue to do so even when it makes us feel progressively worse over time!" It's almost like we're in a toxic relationship with it 👀.

Also, the news is much more accessible than it used to be. I vividly remember my grandmother being glued to the morning and evening reports growing up, but now we don't have to look far for a breakdown of what's going on. Because of this, Dr. Lee believes "breaking ourselves out of this cycle is especially difficult because much of the news today is presented in a way that keeps us 'hooked.'" How?

Why are more people talking about it?

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Based on her observations, Dr. Lee feels "social media algorithms often prioritize content that is engaging and gets reactions (often fear-based)." If you've ever used the word "rage-bait" in a conversation then you're already familiar with what she means. As a result, this "makes it easy to get stuck in a loop of distressing information," according to her. "In fact, with world issues such as climate concerns and political polarization, there seems to be an endless stream of negative news," she adds.

As much as I haven't wanted to talk about them, it's hard to escape concerns and opinions related to topics such as politics, reproductive health, or celebrity PR disasters. They have a way of showing up in conversations because almost everyone I know has access to a smart phone, where news is readily available at our fingertips.

What are negative side effects of being on social media or news sites 24/7?

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If you've been feeling on edge or skittish lately, Dr. Lee wants you to know there's a connection between them and doom scrolling. "There are plenty of negative consequences of doom-scrolling. It can increase our feelings of stress and anxiety, lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness, disturb our sleep (if doom-scrolling late at night), and eat up our time during the day when we’re trying to be productive and engage in positive life activities," she says.

However, some good has come out of an increased awareness about doom scrolling. According to Dr. Lee, "we are becoming more aware of the effects of screen time, especially doom scrolling, our our mental health." I didn't know it at the time, but going into my phone settings to create boundaries for myself was the right thing to do!

How can I curb this habit?

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If you're ready to stop being so attached to your phone, Dr. Lee has a few tips to help you make this necessary change.

  1. Create screen limits: "Set time limits on how much news you consume. I like to keep it around 30 minutes a day of news exposure."
  2. Review your notifications: "Remove news notifications from your phone to remove the constant barrage of 'breaking news' so that YOU can decide when to check in."
  3. Try listening to a podcast: "Subscribe to a news podcast such as The Daily or NPR News Now. Podcasts automatically have a time limit and often discuss the most pressing news of the day. PLUS, you can listen while doing something stress-relieving, such as working out."

How can I tell if I'm doom scrolling or casually looking at social media?

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It can be confusing when you're not sure if you're casually scrolling on social media, or succumbing to doom and gloom. But Dr. Lee doesn't want you to stress yourself out even further! Here's how she says you can tell which one you're doing:

  1. Stay curious: "Pay attention to your mood during and after scrolling. Are you feeling anxious, drained, or exhausted? Do you keep scrolling bad news and struggle to stop even though it makes you feel progressively worse? These are signs that you are doom-scrolling."
  2. Pay attention to content you're consuming: "On the other hand, if you are engaging with a variety of content (not just bad news) that makes you feel informed, entertained, or inspired, you are likely just casually scrolling. Casually scrolling often feels easier to stop than doom-scrolling."

You don't have to stop using your favorite social media apps, but it does help to limit how often you're online. If it's been more than two hours since you've gotten up to eat, use the bathroom, or work, you need to break up with doom scrolling ASAP.

Visit the rest of our site for even more self-care tips!

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Amanda Seyfried Just Confirmed 'Mamma Mia 3' Is On Its Way

When I saw Mamma Mia 2 in 2018, my life was changed. I didn't grow up on the original jukebox musical, but watching Lily James and Amanda Seyfried dance around Greece was exactly the kind of escapism I needed at 19 years old. I've been waiting for Mamma Mia 3 ever since (haven't we all?!), and while we've gotten a few updates here and there (creator and producer Judy Craymer told Deadline a third movie is in "earliest stages" in May of 2023), Amanda Seyfried just answered a major question fans have: why is the threequel taking so long?

Here's what Amanda Seyfried said about Mamma Mia 3's release.

Amanda Seyfried promises "we're going to do" 'Mamma Mia 3.'

Amanda Seyfried was asked about a Mamma Mia 3 ahead of the premiere for Long Bright River, which she stars in and executive produces.

"Show me the money!" she jokingly tells The Hollywood Reporter, before adding, "Producer Judy Craymer is always working on it, but Universal still has to release Wicked2. The first Wicked had to stall when Mamma Mia! 2 was getting made."

"It’s an either/or situation with musicals. And I have this theory that Universal just knows we’re going to do it, so they’re not in any rush," she continues. "And it’s just going to cost double."

Hearing Amanda Seyfried say they're definitely making the movie is exactly what I needed to hear this week!

And Meryl Streep wants to return as Donna!

Since Wicked: For Good is coming out later this year (and Universal has no other musicals in the pipeline) that means Mamma Mia 3 could finally be on its way! If they filmed over the summer of 2026 and completed post-production in the winter, we could see the third movie as early as the spring of 2027.

Amanda Seyfried told ET that “it’s happening" and jokes that “it’s going to happen in Greece, hopefully before 2038."

"Ideally [filming] would be in summer 2026," she continues. "That’s just my schedule. Everybody has to put their lives on hold.” And see, that's exactly what I said.

"I don't want to over-egg it," Judy Craymer told Deadline, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

And what does Meryl Streep think of the possible return to Donna Sheridan? "Of course I want to do it," she said. Let's get the band back together!

If you need me, I'll be singing ABBA's "Dancing Queen" all day. Read up on The ‘Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again’ Cast Reveals Who Was the Real Diva on Set for more insight into these iconic musicals.

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25 Crazy Good St. Patrick's Day Desserts That Will Be Your Lucky Charm

St. Patrick's Day in America is known mostly as an excuse to have a day-long marathon of drinking green beer (we'll take some green cocktails, too), but if staying in is more your jam, you'll need some epic DIY party favorsand a slew of adorable St. Patrick's Day-themed treats! In this collection of St. Patrick's Day desserts, you'll find everything from rainbow cupcakes and Lucky Charms pancakes, to Leprechauns made out of Nutter Butters and boozy green fudge. Yum.

Throw on your best “Kiss Me, I'm Irish" apron and have some fun with these 25 delicious St. Patrick's Day desserts!

Brit + Co

St. Patrick’s Day Rainbow Donuts

This adorable DIY requires no cooking and is a blast to make with friends. At the end of this rainbow you may not find gold, but you will find a fluffy cloud of coconut just waiting to be devoured. (via Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

St. Patrick's Day Dessert Shots

These cute, tiny shots are sweetened with flavors like dark chocolate, vanilla, and peppermint extract — and they even have a bite-sized brownie on the bottom. Now that's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, amiright? (via Sarah Anderson forBrit + Co)

Brit + Co

Lucky Charms Ice Cream

This one isn't a specific recipe per say, it's more of a how-too... but arguably the most useful how-to you'll learn this month. This overview of how to make Lucky Charms-infused ice cream can be put to use this St. Patrick's Day and beyond! (via Brit + Co)

Grandbaby Cakes

St. Patrick’s Day Dessert Pizza

Deep dish pizza should always have a sugar cookie crust and a Bailey's Irish Cream chocolate filling. Top with green sprinkles, green tinted white chocolate and chopped chocolate mint candies for that extra festive feel. (via Grandbaby Cakes)

Brit + Co

Double Rainbow Cake

Labor intensive? Maybe. Totally worth it? Absolutely. Grab a partner or your kiddos, and settle in for a fun afternoon of food coloring and multi-colored M&M decorating. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Recipeas

Drunken Grasshopper Fudge

This is definitely an adults-only fudge. Made with both Crème de Menthe and Crème de Cocoa, this fudge has a boozy flavor that bites back. Throw on a handful of shamrock sprinkles to really drive the theme home. (via Sweet Recipeas)

Home Made Interest

St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Cookies

These little guys would be so cute to make for your kiddo's school St. Patrick's Day party. Plus, they double as a fun activity to do with them at home. They're almost too cute to eat… almost. (via Home Made Interest)

The Cake Blog

Leprechaun Hat S’mores

Obviously a large marshmallow on top of a cookie makes the perfect top hat. Once it's covered in chocolate and adorned with green decor, you have the perfect edible s'mores hat that any leprechaun would be happy to wear. (via The Cake Blog)

Classy Clutter

St. Patrick’s Day Rice Krispie Treats

You may have to go digging for marshmallows in a box of Lucky Charms to make these, but it's totally worth it. The pretty pastels in the marshmallows also looks perfect with the light green of the Rice Krispies. (via Classy Clutter)

Takes Two Eggs

Matcha Roll Cake

This sponge-y roll cake is packed with matcha whipped cream, and it looks just as good as it tastes! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Averie Cooks

Irish Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes

The batter these cupcakes are crafted with is spiked with Guinness and Jameson for a bit of booziness. (via Averie Cooks)

Barbara Bakes

Mint Chocolate Chip Pie For St. Patrick’s Day

You don't have to have a lot of time and ingredients to make a great St. Patrick's Day dessert. All you need for this freezer pie is a pre-made Oreo pie crust and mint chocolate chip ice cream. Whipped cream and chocolate shavings optional – as if! (via Barbara Bakes)

Created By Diane

St. Patrick’s Day Mint Chocolate Cake

Before you cut into this cake, you would have no idea that what lies inside is an intricate mint chocolate design that tastes just as good as it looks. This concoction is definitely going to impress whoever you serve it to. (via Created By Diane)

Nifty Mom

No-Bake Mint-Free St. Patrick’s Day Dessert

St. Patrick's Day desserts are almost always full of mint. Well, you know what? Not everyone likes mint. This dessert is still chocolatey and green with no mint in sight. (via Nifty Mom)

Foods Of Our Lives

Crème De Menthe Cake Pops

If you have a package of Oreos lying around, you're already halfway to making these flavorful cake pops. They're so addicting, you may want to give them away as St. Patrick's Day gifts just to avoid eating every single one. (via Foods Of Our Lives)

Pizzazzerie

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Swapping standard whiskey for Irish Whiskey gives this cocktail a St. Patrick's Day twist. Add a few drops of food coloring to make the green really stand out. (via Pizzazzerie)

Half Baked Harvest

Chocolate Irish Cream Filled Donuts

If you're feelin' fancy, opt to make these homemade donuts filled with St. Patty's-ready Irish cream! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Two Peas & Their Pod

Chocolate Mint Brownie Milkshake

You can never go wrong with a combo of chocolate and mint! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Baking A Moment

Pot of Gold Cupcakes

The rainbow Swiss buttercream that tops these decadent chocolate cupcakes is way easier to make than it looks. Make sure to get some gold foiled chocolate coins to put on top for an extra fun touch. (via Baking A Moment)

Recipe Girl

Green Velvet Cheesecake Cake

What's better than cheesecake? Cheesecake that's sitting in the middle of two layers of green velvet cake, of course. It's like having a giant layer of creamy frosting in the middle… but it's cheesecake! (via Recipe Girl)

Simply Happenstance

St. Patrick’s Day Caramel Corn

Caramel corn is a treat that both adults AND kids love. Just by adding a bit of food coloring to your caramel, you'll create a crunchy masterpiece that everyone will gobble up in seconds. (via Simply Happenstance)

The Recipe Rebel

White Chocolate Lucky Charms Cookies

Not only do these cookies have finely ground Lucky Charms in the cookie batter itself, chopped cereal and marshmallows are also folded in for extra texture and flavor. We'll take two dozen, please. (via The Recipe Rebel)

Completely Delicious

Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

These sweet bites are described as the epitome of mint chocolate chip ice cream, but in cupcake form. Perfect, perfect, perfect! (via Completely Delicious)

Gal On A Mission

St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Chow

Puppy chow is the perfect on-the-go munchie for the whole family. Green candy melts give this snack its hue, while spearmint essential oil gives it its minty flavor. (via Gal On A Mission)

Pillsbury

Mini Whoopie Pies

These tiny whoopie pies are just small enough that you can enjoy them in one delicious bite. It doesn't get much easier than using refrigerated sugar cookie dough to make them, either. Score! (via Pillsbury)

Follow us on Pinterest for more St. Patrick's Day recipes and desserts!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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