Craft a flip-flop wreath for your summer garden

by Debra Anchors

Although this is not technically an upcycle (because I used new flip-flops), you can create a wreath by finding previously loved flip-flops and then washing them in the top rack of your dishwasher.












Note:  For convenience, I have embedded links into the materials list that will take you to the products used in this project. Just click on the item you want to find.

Materials needed:

Straw wreath - 24 inch size

Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Clear Coat Spray

Greening pins (1 per flip-flop)

Children’s sunglasses

9 pair adult flip-flops

Steps:

Remove the clear wrap from the wreath

Apply 2 coats of clear gloss to the entire straw surface. This will help hold the straw in place and provide some protection from rain. 

Once the clear coat is dry, arrange your flip-flops in any design you wish and then attach each with a greening pin.

Embellish your creation with some children’s sunglasses

Recycle, upcycle and do it yourself?  Absolutely!  Have you upcycled something unique for your garden from recycled materials?  Please share it with me so I can feature your creation here.

If you enjoy this website, you might like my magazine, Gardening Life.  AND, don’t miss my more traditional gardening website, Gardens Inspired.

I hope you found inspiration today.  Remember to subscribe, so you won't miss a thing!

Until next time -

Debra

Create a garden rain chain

by Debra Anchors

Image Credit: Creative Commons photo by contraption 

A rain chain downspout is a wonderful way to manage water run-off around the home.  Rain chains are easy to make, and can be a beautiful addition to your garden.

Image Credit: Ann Arbor Chronicle 

Rain chains can work in almost any environment; even in the winter. When rainwater flows down a rain chain and it turns to ice, the water will form a beautiful icicle; whereas, when traditional waterspouts freeze, they become ineffective.













You will need:

• Galvanized Chain
• Tape measure
• Gutter strap
• Ground stake
• Rain barrel  (optional for those who would like to collect and recycle rain water)

Embedded here is a video that will show you a finished do-it-yourself rain chain.




Note:  For convenience, I have embedded links into the materials list that will take you to the products used in this project.

Recycle, upcycle and do it yourself? Absolutely! Have you upcycled something unique for your garden from recycled materials? Please share it with me so I can feature your creation here.

If you enjoy this website, you might like my magazine, Gardening Life. AND, don’t miss my more traditional gardening website, Gardens Inspired.

I hope you found inspiration today. Remember to subscribe, so you won't miss a thing!

Until next time -
Debra