With Quikrete’s Sand/Topping Cement and Acrylic Fortifier, this easy-to-make hanging planter defies the usual expectations of cement (as well as gravity) but is still strong enough to hold up your plants. The cement in this modern boho hanging succulent planter combined with cotton rope and succulents creates a beautiful balance between industrial and organic which makes for the perfect planter. I wanted to make a cement project that would be something for all craftspeople by using easily accessible tools and materials, simple shapes, and straightforward techniques.
Finished size: 15″x 10″x 3/4″
Materials
- Quikrete Sand/Topping Mix
- Quikrete Concrete Acrylic Fortifier
- Cricut Maker
- Surge Protector
- Cricut Knife Blade
- Packing Tape
- Cardboard Sheets
- Metal Ruler
- Sharpie
- Hobby Knife
- Self-healing Mat
- Cotton Rope
- Macrame Cord
- Water
- Bucket
- SVG Files
Making a Mold for Concrete
First, from cardboard, cut a 21”x16” rectangle, 24 3/4” circles, and 6 4 1/4” circles. Stack the 6 large circles and then wrap completely in packing tape, do the same with the small circles, creating four small cylinders. Cover the surface area of both sides of the rectangle in packing tape.
Take rectangle and measure 3” in from each side and score, cutting away the 3”x3” squares at the corners. Fold sides up and secure with packing tape. Cover exposed, cut edges and corners with packing tape. Place one small cylinder 1” from each corner and place the large cylinder in the center and secure with tape.`
Before you get started:
When it comes to working with concrete you always want to use Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).
Eye Protection
Eye protection should be worn anytime concrete dust is present. If it is particularly dusty goggles should be worn. Avoid contact lenses.
Here are some great, affordable Goggles!
Skin Protection
For optimal skin protection wear long sleeves and pants tucked into waterproof gloves and boots. The concrete dust will create some skin irritation, but be sure to cover any broken or damaged skin. This is especially crucial when working with wet concrete since it can create serious burns on your skin. Always wash your hands after working with concrete.
Lung Protection
Work in a well-ventilated area and wear respiratory protection. Even just wearing a bandana over your nose and mouth is preferable to nothing.
Casting concrete
Measure approximately 5 pounds of Quikrete Sand/Topping cement and place in the container you will be mixing in, add in 1/2 cup of Quikrete Acrylic Fortifier (for more information about what it is and what it is used for CLICK HERE) and water. Mix with hands until mixture can keep its shape. Use oil on inside of mold for a quick release. Take small scoops of cement and pat down into the mold. Tap and shake the mold to evenly distribute the cement and remove bubbles. Let sit for 24 hours.
After letting it cure, cut the corners of the mold and pull the cardboard away from the cement slab.
From there, sanding is an optional step.
Finishing Up
Fold two 5ft rope pieces in half and tie macrame cord 3-5 inches below top to create a loop. Feed each end of the rope through the corner holes in the slab, keeping them even and tying a knot in each end to create a level hanging slab.
Take a terra-cotta pot and dip into white paint at an angle. Allow time to dry.
After the paint is dry, transfer desired plants into the pot.
Using a cup hook, hang slab from the loop. Place pot in the center hole.
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