12 Upcycled Planters You Can Make From Stuff You Have at Home

Adrienne Leonard
Apr 30, 2015

With warm weather becoming a reality, we are beyond stoked for all the gardening and fun outdoor DIY projects comin’ our way. Our favorite for this spring? DIY planters made with upcycled materials, of course! These 12 easy and budget-friendly planters are made with materials you probably already have at home. So instead of buying those new ones you’ve been eyeing, save a little dough and make your very own. Whether it’s indoor gardening or a patio makeover you’re looking for, you’ll definitely want to whip up one of these awesome upcycled planters.

1. Upcycle Old Toys: We know little ones get tired of toys pretty quick. Now those old toys don’t have to go to waste. DIY these super cute planters to adorn your mantle for years to come. (via Little Bit Funky)

2. Drink Up: You’ll never look at your old wine bottles the same again. Use a glass cutter and some copper wire to make this awesome garden completely from scratch. (via InHabitat)

3. Kitchen Trinkets: If you love to cook, you’re going to love this DIY where you take common kitchen items and turn them into adorable planters. Think cast iron skillets, tea tins, cans and tea cups. We can’t wait to see what you come up with! (via The Young Austinian)

4. Old Sockets: If you’re planning on replacing your wall sockets any time soon, we’ve got a great DIY for you to try. Bonus points if you paint ’em bright colors or add some pattern. (via Apartment Therapy)

5. Tiny and Vintage: These tiny vintage jars make the most amazing little succulent planters. Use all different shapes for a fun, eclectic look. (via The Jungalow)

6. Make Over Old Paint Tins: This clever project combines two things we LOVE: paint and plants. The best part is that you can learn to fake this paint drip effect with craft paint and use it on all kinds of DIYs. (via HGTV)

7. New Life into Old Tools: Take your rusty garden tools and upcycle them as amazing succulent planters. Of course you can go beyond just garden tools — take note of those old boots, basins and antique toys. So much inspiration in one little shot. (via Rancho Reubidoux)

8. Old Tire Garden Bed: We all need new tires every now and again, and now we actually have a reason to be excited about it. Tell your mechanic to pack those old tires in the trunk because you’ve got big plans for them at home. (via Lemon, Bean and Things)

9. Vintage Clocks: You won’t believe it, but before this makeover this clock was brand new. How, you ask? The awesome, vintage-inspired look was achieved with chalk paint. (via Magiamia)

10. Green Tech: If you have a surplus of these colorful floppy disks lying around from decades past, you can officially pull them out of retirement. The only tool you’ll need is a hot glue gun. (via Brit + Co)

11. Retired Ties: So. Inventive. And they even figured out a way to keep the tie totally safe and stain-free. That way your tie planter will always look this cute. (via ModCloth)

12. Save Your Tins: Bright colors can give these old soup cans new life. And you don’t have to stop there — you can use old coffee and tea tins too. We’d love to see where your creativity and paint cans take you. (via DosFamily)

What’s your favorite planter idea? Is there a great idea you have that’s not on this list? Let us know in the comments!

This Unexpected Trader Joe’s Home Decor Find Is Sending Customers Into A Frenzy: “OMG Need.”

As fun as Trader Joe’s snacks and desserts are, there’s one aisle you definitely should not skip – and that’s their plant section. Trader Joe’s is constantly stocking up on blooms like orchids and monsteras, all of which are easy to take care of once they make it home from the store.

Any houseplant lover knows the easiest of all easy houseplants is the famed pothos. I can water mine (I have about 5 pothos plants) once every two weeks, and they will. not. die. Right now, Trader Joe’s is selling pothos for cheap – but not just any pothos. They currently come along with a stunning hanging pot that you’ll instantly want to put up in your home.

Scroll on to discover more about this unique Trader Joe’s plant find!

@traderjoesobsessed

That’s right – Trader Joe’s shelves now include disco ball hanging planters. I repeat: disco ball hanging planters! The sphere-shaped pot is covered in reflective disco tiles that’ll certainly make your living room feel like a dance club. The best part is that pothos plants naturally look amazing when they’re grown hanging, so you can watch this baby flourish all year long.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed recently spotted the disco ball hanging planters at their local Trader Joe’s and shared the new find with their Instagram followers. Tons of them chimed in about their excitement for the product in the comments!

“I need this now😍,” one person commented.

“The way I gasped when I saw this 😍🪩,” another said.

“I bought one today and totally love it👍,” someone else commented.

“I suddenly need to buy more plants,” one more person wrote.

Several shoppers in the comment section noted that they were able to track down the disco ball hanging planters pretty easily, while others reported that they haven’t seen them in their stores quite yet. This is your sign to keep an eye out on your next TJ’s trip!

Reddit

@traderjoesobsessed reports that the disco ball hanging planters go for $12.99 in stores. Their affordable price makes them such a great gift for yourself or a loved one, plus the sparkles on the disco ball are perfect for livening up your space for a New Year’s refresh.

Run to TJ’s soon – I know I will!

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This Adorable Valentine’s Dessert From Costco Is So Bougie, But Only Costs $13

Costco just popped off again with another heart-shaped goodie for Valentine's Day, and it’s the perfect fancy-looking pick-me-up that won’t break the bank! If you’re a big fan of sweet treats, pastries, and all things French cuisine, you’re gonna want to run to your nearest Costco ASAP.

Scroll on to discover the $13 Costco treat that will definitely sweeten up your Valentine’s Day!

Reddit

Costco is selling the most magnificent macarons right now, but they’re not just any macarons. The Le Chic Heart Macarons are adorably heart-shaped, just in time for V-Day!

@lechicpatissier

The Le Chic Heart Macarons are a "romantic twist on the classic French dessert” and the ultimate bougie addition to your Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day plans. One box comes with 25 macarons total – half are flavored with vanilla, while the other half boasts a tart raspberry taste.

@costcosisters

Per Le Chic, the Heart Macarons are made with two “gourmet” almond biscuits and a “creamy” ganache. They’re also made with cage-free eggs and are gluten-free. They look perfectly plump yet airy, which is exactly what I’m craving right now!

Nuovo Pasta

The new heart-shaped macarons are the latest goodie to join Costco’s Valentine’s lineup, including the famed heart-shaped ravioli. Sounds like I’m gonna have to make a Costco run very soon.

Reddit

The Le Chic Heart Macarons are on shelves now for $12.99 a box. That puts each macaron under $2, which is a total steal for such a tasteful treat.

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14 Unbelievable, Edible Ways to Upcycle Food Scraps

Before you toss those food scraps on the compost pile (or in the trash bin), take a peek at all of the clever ways that they can be repurposed. From peels to cores, poultry to produce and everything in between, these 14 awesome upcycled food recipes help you make the most out of your groceries and make your meals feelbrand new. It's a smart move that's just as good for the Earth as it is for your wallet. Oh yeah, and they taste great too!

Upcycled Food Recipes To Make In 2024

Bacon Fat: The crisp slices may be the real star, but the bacon fat is nothing to just discard. (Plus, tossing it down the drain or in the trash can't be good for your home's plumbing or the environment, right?). It adds a subtle smokiness to this yummy bacon jam, but you can also use it as a popcorn topping!. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Peels: Turn your favorite peels into marmalade with this easy recipe. Spread it on toast for breakfast or use it in a dessert — it's just that versatile. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seeds: We can hardly keep track of all the ways pumpkin seeds and guts can be repurposed. Stirring them into puppy chow is a great option for those who enjoy theirs a little sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Peels: You'll love sipping on homemade apple peel bourbonas a spicy, warming alternative to the usual flavored vodka and “fiery" store-bought selections. The sweet, autumnal notes mean it's just as good enjoyed neat or in a hot toddy. (via Food52)

Leftover Bones: Whip up a batch of brodo or this delicious creamy chicken, mushroom and green chile soup the next time you roast a chicken and pick it clean. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Chard Stems: Yeah, we can pickle chard stems for a sour afternoon pick-me-up. Not feeling something so puckery? Toss them on the grill instead. (via Bon Appétit)

Broccoli Stalks: Use the florets in your next stir fry, then transform the stalks into tasty baked fries like these broccoli stem fries. Dip 'em in chimichurri tahini for the ultimate snack. (via What's Cooking Good Looking)

Carrot Tops: If you buy fresh carrots with their tops, don't let them lop them off at the register. Instead, transform the fronds into a lovely pesto for roasted carrot soup. (via Cravings in Amsterdam)

Potato Peels: Crispy potato skins get an apeeling makeover when roasted, especially when sprinkled with cheese and scallions. (via The Kitchn)

Fennel Fronds: A pinch of fennel frond salt adds a subtle anise flavor anywhere it's sprinkled. (via Chew Town)

Apple Cores: Simmer apple cores and peels with a little sugar in a big pot of water to make an easy, no-waste apple juice. (via Inspiration Kitchen)

Papaya Seeds: You'll enjoy the interesting peppery taste papaya seeds lend this sweet and spicy watermelon blueberry salsa. Consider this the ultimate addition to the Memorial Day picnic. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Kale Stems: Kale stems are pretty tough to chew, but blending them in your next post-workout smoothie takes care of that issue, no sweat. Plus, when whirled with strawberries and banana, you'll hardly even know they're there. (via The Roasted Root)

Almond Pulp: If you make your own homemadealmond milk, it probably pains you a bit to just toss all the pulp you get after straining. Happily, it can be used to make grain-free cinnamon and peanut butter almond pulp crackers/cereal and more. (via The Edible Perspective)

What are some of your favorite hacks for turning trash into treasure, edible or not? Share your earth-friendly ideas (about upcycled food and more) with us on Twitter and follow us on Pinterest for more food inspo!

This post has been updated.

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Everything We Know About Those 'Fourth Wing' TV Show Cast Rumors

One of the most important parts of bringing a book to life onscreen is finding the PERFECT cast. Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls, and 1923 wouldn’t be the same without their phenomenal cast members — and their chemistry with one another. So when it was announced that Amazon was developing a Fourth Wing TV show inspired by Rebecca Yarros' viral book series, fans immediately started talking about who should play Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the characters. Especially since we’ve all been imagining them for so long!

Well there are two actors at the top of the rumor mill for this TV show — and I am crossing all my fingers and toes we see them in the series.

Here’s everything we know about the Fourth Wing TV show cast rumors.

Did the 'Fourth Wing' TV show already find its Xaden?

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

The biggest Fourth Wing casting rumor at the moment is that we could see Josh Heuston as dragon rider Xaden Riorson. The Australian actor is known for roles in Heartbreak High and Dune: Prophecy. Elle points out that not only does Josh follow Rebecca Yarros and Michael B. Jordan (who's producing the series) on Instagram, he also has a dragon in his bio!

"We’re just going to say [Xaden] is POC," Rebecca said in an interview with Variety. "I want to make sure that role is open to as much diversity as possible. So I was never going to give the readers my vision because I know that once you give the readers your vision, that’s what they’re gonna stick to. And I wanted to make sure we left it open to as much diversity as possible."

There's also one 'Twilight' actress fans would love to see as Violet.

Plus I can't pass up the opportunity to mention that Elle also points out Twilight's Mackenzie Foy (who played Renesmee in the franchise) also follows Rebecca Yarros — and she posted Onyx Storm to her Instagram story! She also matches Violet's description perfectly.

"Best fancast I've seen so far..." one TikTok user commented on our TikTok, while another added, "You know what, I’m not mad at it! I’m actually loving this combo!!" I couldn't agree more.

While we haven't gotten an official cast confirmation quite yet, we do know that Anne With An E's Moira Walley-Beckett is serving as showrunner — and that Rebecca Yarros is just as excited as we are to see who fills the cast list.

"I’ve never done this before, so I don’t have an opinion on if [the cast] should be established or if they shouldn’t, or what attention that brings," she tells Variety. "I’m going to trust that they bring in the right people when they start casting. And then I’m gonna hope that they fit who’s described in the book, and I think we’ll know when we know. But I honestly don’t have a preference, just whoever can fit the character."

Who do you want to see in the Fourth Wing cast? Drop your favorite fancasts on Facebook!

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33 Of The Most Delicious Super Bowl Food Ideas, According To Pinterest

If you had to guess the Super Bowl food ideas that Pinterest peeps are pinning most this week, what would you say? Chips and dip, meatballs, sliders, chicken wings, and random clever football-shaped foodsfor sure. What about that actual *recipes* — wouldn't you love to get your hands on those? Well, you're in luck!

Turns out, tater tots in all shapes, forms, and flavors are driving everyone pin-happy, and that's not all. Keep scrolling for the actual recipes that Pinners across the globe will be making — and eating — this coming game day.

You'll want to add these Super Bowl recipes to your inspo boards ASAP!

What are the most popular Super Bowl foods?

Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

  1. Chicken Wings. They're super easy to snack on during the big game festivities and can be made in tons of flavors.
  2. Buffalo Chicken Dip. Our mouths are watering just thinking about the delicious buffalo flavors we’ll devour.
  3. Spinach Artichoke Dip. Hey, at least there’s some veggies in there.
  4. Pizza. This one obviously speaks for itself.
  5. 7-Layer Dip. It’s like the perfect deconstruction of our favorite taco recipe.

What is good food for a Super Bowl party?

Alena Shekhovtcova / PEXELS

The best food for a Super Bowl party is a dish that’s easy to snack on. We recommend setting out finger foods to enjoy throughout the day, in between refreshing drinks and cheering on your team!

What is the most popular Super Bowl snack?

Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS

Chicken wings are the most popular Super Bowl snack, likely due to how easy they are to prep and eat! They've always been a tailgate staple, so it makes sense that wings are around for the big game.

What can I cook for the Super Bowl?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Look no further than these stellar recipes for Super Bowl Sunday. We’ve included something that everyone can enjoy, from delectable chicken wings to ultra-cheesy nachos. Plus, you’ll want to prep something sweet to end the day!

Lemongrass & Sriracha Chicken Kebabs

Brit + Co

Add some kick to your Super Bowl Sunday with a few of these spicy chicken kebabs! They're marinated in a delicious Sriracha lime sauce *and* there's even a sweet chili lime sauce for all your dipping needs. (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

Sarah Anderson

We could eat poke every day, but you can give it a Super Bowl upgrade by turning it into a tasty finger food. Salmon, avocado, and red onions work together seamlessly. Even the kids are going to love these bites! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Mini Baked Potatoes

Brit + Co

As far as we're concerned, baked potatoes are a football game staple, no matter which game we're watching. And the fact that these babies are bite-sized just makes them easier (and cuter) than ever. (via Brit + Co)

Chicken, Pesto, & Sun-Dried Tomato Egg “Pizza"

The Whole Smiths Good Food Cookbook © 2018 by Michelle Smith

Not only are these pizzas the perfect finger food, but they're also healthier than your average pie. You can have your pals come over early to customize them before the game starts! (viaBrit + Co)

No-Bake Baileys Bonbons

Brittany Griffin

No-bake desserts are basically your Super Bowl BFF, because with all the other cooking you're doing, who has time for a super fancy dessert?! All you need is butter, heavy cream, Baileys, dark chocolate chips, and sprinkles. Voilà! (via Brit + Co)

Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños

Sally's Baking Addiction

Our mouths are watering just looking at these bad boys. Cheese, garlic, and paprika make these stuffed peppers extra flavorful, and the fact that they take under an hour is just the cherry on top. Quick Super Bowl food ideas FTW! (via Sally's Baking Addiction for Brit + Co)

Cheesy Keto Tots

Ryan Shelley

This appetizer takes everyone's fave tater tots to a whole new level. This cauliflower rice version is so easy to make, and your guests will go absolutely nuts over them. Don't worry though, you can definitely still dunk them in ketchup. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet + Spicy Coca-Cola Chicken Wings

Always Order Dessert

If there's anything more crowd-pleasing on game day than a giant platter of piping hot, crispy chicken wings, we haven't seen it yet. This barbecue sauce in this Super Bowl food idea is sweet and spicy, thanks to the secret ingredient: cola. (via Always Order Dessert)

Super-Easy Bacon Cheddar Football Cheese Ball

Peas and Crayons

When it comes to game-day snackage, you can't go wrong with something cheesy. This football-shaped cheese ball is so adorable it serves as both food and table decor. And with bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar, everyone's going to love it.(via Peas and Crayons)

Loaded Tater Tot Skewers

Made With Happy

Tater tot skewers are one of the biggest Super Bowl food trends on Pinterest — and with good reason. They're crispy and crunchy delicious and *so* easy to eat while mingling with friends and cheering on your team. (via Made With Happy)

Buffalo Chicken Dip Sliders

Half Baked Harvest

Nothing screams 'Super Bowl' quite like sliders do. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Quinoa & Turkey Stuffed Mini Peppers

The Girl on Bloor

These bite-sized beauties are shockingly healthy, thanks to the whole grain quinoa and lean turkey. Yum! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Rainbow Veggie Dippers

Always Order Dessert

Sure, you could just lay out a tray of crudite and bowl of dipping sauce, but these single-serving shot glasses really class up your Super Bowl food act. Better make a bunch, because they'll disappear as quickly as you can bring them out. (via Always Order Dessert)

Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Life Tastes Good

These spicy bites are meatless and dairy-free, but so full of buffalo-spice flavor. Prepare for the onslaught, because everyone will want the recipe. Don't forget the vegan ranch! (via Life Tastes Good)

Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Garlic Bread

Crunchy Creamy Sweet

Who doesn't love cheesy garlic bread?! It may be better to place a tray at each end of the table, to avoid a buffet line traffic jam when the fam stampedes. No matter who's pulling for which team, everyone will be united over this tasty Super Bowl dish. (via Crunchy Creamy Sweet)

Sweet Potato Tots

Sweet As Honey

From breakfast to snack time, everyone's digging the tater tots trend, and it's a miracle that they fit the bill for Super Bowl food ideas. These are extra healthy, thanks to the sweet potatoes, and there's SOOO much cheesy goodness in every bite. (via Sweet As Honey)

Baked Parmesan Hash Brown Cups

Averie Cooks

These hash browns could not be easier to make. The recipe calls for grating your own potatoes, but you could just as easily use a bag of your fave go-to frozen grated ones. Thanks to all the Parmesan cheese and Panko bread crumbs, they're guaranteed to be a crispy and crunchy delight. (via Averie Cooks)

French Onion Dip

Completely Delicious

This flavorful dip only calls for several simple ingredients, so you can get a dippable snack on the table quick. (via Completely Delicious)

Salt & Vinegar Zucchini Chips

Sugar-Free Mom

Prep these chips the night before, and spend the day watching the game with your family and friends. The recipe calls for a food dehydrator, but you can make them in a traditional oven or toaster oven and they'll be equally delicious — and healthy. (via Sugar-Free Mom)

Chicken Fajita Queso Dip

Inside BruCrew Life

This Super Bowl recipe starts with traditional queso, then takes it up a notch with chicken and fajita seasonings. Pro tip: you can jump-start yours using a store-bought rotisserie chicken and no one will be the wiser. (via Inside BruCrew Life)

Pizza Roll-Ups

Damn Delicious

These easy pizza-inspired appetizers call for just five ingredients. It's best to double up on Super Bowl food ideas as tasty as this one, because when the scent of fresh-baked pepperoni roll-ups hits the TV room, everyone's going to want one (or a few, TBH). (via Damn Delicious)

Carolina-Style BBQ Jackfruit Sliders with Avocado-Apple Slaw

Carrots and Flowers

Another jackfruit miracle, these vegan sliders are full of mustardy-spicy goodness. They're so lip-smacking, finger-licking good, even the carnivores in the house will gobble them up. (via Carrots and Flowers)

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip

Gimme Some Oven

Nothing beats a slow cooker recipe when you're feeding a crowd. Especially when it's buffalo chicken! This Super Bowl recipe will free you from spending time in the kitchen when you'd rather be watching for flags on the play. (via Gimme Some Oven)

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Footballs

Life, Love and Sugar

Nothing's better than cookie dough bites — unless it's cookie dough bites shaped like little footballs! These are seriously yummy and they travel well in the cooler, making them the perfect Super Bowl food to bring to a tailgate. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Orange Chicken Meatballs

Bakers Royale

Instead of ordering Chinese takeout on game day, make these simple orange chicken meatballs. They're the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy that will keep your taste buds engaged throughout the whole game. (via Bakers Royale)

Memphis Honey Gold Wings

Pink Owl Kitchen

Just look at that sauce. Serve with plenty of ranch and celery sticks to complete this classic platter. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Individual 7-Layer Dips

Evolving Table

Our favorite thing about these single-serve dips is that every bite has all the different flavors in it. Make every Super Bowl watch party guest feel extra special by presenting them with their very own seven-layer dip! Just make sure to provide plenty of tortilla chips for dunking. (via Evolving Table)

Waffled Pizza Fries

Real Food by Dad

The best part about the Super Bowl is that you can finally make the snacks you've only ever let yourself dream about. Case in point are these waffled pizza fries, equal parts crispy, gooey, and oozing with flavor. (via Real Food by Dad)

Mini Chicken Tostadas

Pinch and Swirl

Imagine the most perfect bite of nachos. Each of these mini chicken tostadas reaches the ideal balance of flavors and textures so you never get a bite that you don't like! With beans, cheese, and avocado, everyone will be coming back for more of this Super Bowl food. (via Pinch and Swirl)

Crispy Buffalo Brussels Sprouts

Yes to Yolks

Forget tortilla chips — Brussels sprouts can get just as crispy and satisfying! Top them with buffalo sauce, crumbled blue cheese, and plenty of parsley for a healthy snack your guests won't soon forget. This is one of our fave Super Bowl food ideas that packs a healthy(ish) punch. (via Yes to Yolks)

Mini Taco Bowls

Bakers Royale

Crispy, cheesy, and creamy, these taco bowls will be a hit at every Super Bowl function from here on out. They're particularly delish when you can pop a couple alongside a cold sip of beer. They're small enough that you can have one now and one later. (via Bakers Royale)

Chicken Skewer Nachos

Real Food by Dad

It can be hard to find indulgent low-carb party recipes, but this Super Bowl food certainly fits the bill. Chips are swapped with chicken skewers for a snack that's high-protein, fun, and most importantly, delicious. (via Real Food by Dad)

Bang Bang Shrimp

Takes Two Eggs

This saucy shrimp will quickly become a team fave since it's equal parts sweet and spicy. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Want to keep up with the latest, tastiest party food ideas? Follow us on Pinterest for more!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Justina Huddleston, Chloe Williams, and Meredith Holser.

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