How to Make Lightweight Concrete Planters from Recycled Foam: Proven DIY Guide

Materials and Tools:

• Leftover foam packaging or old foam containers
• Chicken wire
• Work gloves
• Tin snips
• Staples and hammer or staple gun
• Fine concrete mix (smooth texture preferred over coarse)
• Plastic container for mixing concrete
• Water
• Plastic or rubber gloves
• Plastic spatula to spread concrete

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Shape the foam form: Use a serrated knife to separate packing foam pieces or glue sections together for your desired planter shape. Carve drainage holes in the bottom.
2. Wrap with chicken wire: Cover the foam completely with chicken wire for concrete adhesion. Cut to fit with tin snips and secure protruding edges with staples using a hammer or staple gun.
3. Mix the concrete: Follow manufacturer instructions to blend fine concrete mix with water to a cookie dough consistency. Add concrete stain for tint if desired.
4. Apply concrete: Wear gloves and spread concrete evenly over all surfaces of the wire-covered form for full coverage.
5. Cure and finish: Let dry completely, then seal, paint, and plant as desired.