Today’s topic of convo involves what has to be one of THE most insane concepts of the 21st century: vase filler

You know the stuff I’m talking about.

At places like World Market & Home Goods you can maybe score a pack for around 6 bucks. But shimmying one’s way up the retail ladder at a place like Williams Sonoma or Pottery Barn – we’re talking about upwards of $20 to $30.

For decorative rocks !!!

Since here at MSFT Living we’re always privy to a good-ass deal, this little DIY planter project quickly turned into one of our fave thrifty home decor hacks yet. And in a strange turn of events, it all started with bang-up bolognese sauce.

The other night after preparing a delectable, belated V-Day dinner, I was pondering what to do with the leftover can from our $9 San Marzano tomatoes. They were a splurge for sure – although yes Alton Brown, totally worth it for the occasion – so I figured a little repurposing was the right thing to do.

And since you can’t ~really~ go wrong with a classic, beautifully jewel-toned (& totally fake) succulent—the plan was officially hatched.

Fast-forward to perusing Hobby Lobby, only realize how stupidly expensive (relatively speaking) decorative floral rocks, mosaic stones & glittery foam balls from the party section truly are (omg). So from there I started thinking: what’s mega-cheap, sturdy & easy to work with…

The answer? DRIED BEANS !!!

Pinto, garbanzo, black, kidney – so many varieties, so little time, & best of all, they hardly cost a thing! So with the help of a little metallic spray paint & 24 hours later, we’re in serious succulent business. 

Here’s how to whip up one for yourself:

// WHAT YOU NEED //

+ an empty 28oz can (rinsed out, of course)

+ 1.5 lbs your choice of dried bean (I went with garbanzos)

+ spray paint

+ a faux succulent

+ acrylic paint & brush

+ wire or floral cutters

// WHAT TO DO //

++ Paint the can whatever color you’d like using the acrylic paint. Let it dry per the instructions on the bottle.

++ Spray paint your beans, making sure to shake them around between coats to ensure full coverage. (In hindsight, I think a pizza box would be PERFECT to use for this step)

++ Measure & cut your succulent to fit inside the can.

++ Once all of the paint is dry, fill the can half-way with beans. Nestle in your succulent & finish filling the can with the rest of the beans.

And there we have it! Rustic, chic & just the right amount of grunge-goth vibes, this is one project that’s sure to wow. 

Especially your wallet!

Craft on,

xxAA

(( background of feature image includes art from ©Melanie Britt Digitals™ ))

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