Make Your Own Garden Decorations

Windchime

• 1

  Create a windchime using a large aluminum can and silverware set. Punch a small hole in the bottom of the aluminum can.

• 2

  Pull the chain of a long silver necklace with a charm attached through the hole. If you do not have a charm for your necklace, you can add a washer to your chain prior to pulling it through the hole.

• 3

  Punch additional holes in the base of your aluminum can. Wrap floral wire tightly around the handles of three spoons and three knives, leaving 8 inches of slack. Pull the unwound portion of the wire on each piece of flatware through the prepared holes. Twist the top of the wire to anchor the flatware to the can.

• 4

  Hang personal trinkets from your wind chime to customize your design, and hang the chime from a tree branch.

Basket Flower Pots

• 5

  Use three wicker baskets to create flower pots. Choose baskets in varying sizes and shapes.

• 6

  Line the baskets with coffee filters to create a clean, simple drainage system.

• 7

  Fill your baskets with soil and plant a perennial flower in each basket. Perennial flowers are an appropriate option because these flowers require little maintenance, but are long-lasting. Place your basket pots around your garden to accent garden furniture or along patio steps.

Colored Citronella Candle Holders

• 8

  Collect unused glass jars and vases from your cabinets. Place appropriately sized citronella candles in the containers. For example, ensure that large pillar candles are paired with large, wide-mouthed jars that allow the candles to be easily removed and reinserted.

• 9

  Lay a disposable picnic tablecloth over a table outdoors. Place a large pan, 9-by-13 inches or larger, or a plant saucer on top of your table. Use a dish that you don't mind getting stained by paint.

• 10

  Fill the pan or saucer halfway with water. Add a layer of spray paint designed for floral crafts to the water. Spray the water lightly. You can find this type of paint in most craft stores.

• 11

  Dip each jar or vase into the water, rotating it fully until all sides are covered in paint. Use tongs to avoid getting paint on your fingertips. Place the completed jars on your tablecloth to dry. Allow 8 hours for the paint to dry.

• 12

  Test a small area on the rim of the jar to determine if the paint is dry. If the paint smudges when touched, it may need an additional hour to dry. When the paint dries, you will have "glazed" glass candleholders. When the candleholders are dry, place citronella candles in each jar and light them. The candles will function as a mild insect repellent as you relax outdoors.