Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Outbyte Driver Updater · freeRandom freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.
Find the Right Drivers →ThatPainter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More
Old crates, reclaimed boards, and sound scrap timber can become attractive flower planters when you match the box to its location and give excess water a clear escape route. The safest sequence is simple: inspect the wood, decide whether the planter will sit on soil or a hard surface, line it only when useful, and establish drainage before adding potting soil. The eleven ideas below are adaptable designs rather than eleven tested kits; two documented approaches underpin them: building a box from reclaimed wood and converting an existing crate.
What to check before upcycling any wood box
A flower container carries wet soil, so a box that looks charming but has loose joints, split boards, rot, or active mold is a poor candidate. Houzz advises starting with a sturdy crate in good condition. Press each corner, inspect the underside, and reject boards that crumble when probed. Remove protruding nails and screws, and sand sharp edges that could catch clothing or cut hands.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Placement determines the base you need. Home Hardware’s reclaimed-wood project allows the bottom to be omitted when the box is set directly on soil, where water can move into the ground; that same project recommends a bottom for a deck or balcony. Treat that as a project-specific option, not a rule for every planter. On any hard surface, water needs holes, a raised gap, or both so the container does not remain saturated.
Choose plants for the light, wind, temperature, and watering pattern at the final location. The documented project mentions pollinator-friendly seeds and potting soil, but it does not prescribe particular flower varieties or a climate-specific planting recipe. Use a quality potting mix intended for containers rather than dense garden soil.
#1 Best Overall
- COMPLETE 5-PIECE BRUSH SET FOR EVERY PAINTING TASK — Includes 1 Inch Flat, 1.5 Inch Angle, 2 Inch Flat, 2 Inch Angle Stubby, and 2.5 Inch Angle brush giving you every size professional painters use daily. Get all 5 for less than the price of a single brush from hardware store brands — professional grade performance at a fraction of the cost. Perfect for walls, trim, cabinets, doors, furniture, and detailed cutting-in work on any project.
- ZERO BRISTLE LOSS — GUARANTEED BY PRECISION ADHESIVE BONDING — Every bristle is locked in place with precision-set adhesive that keeps them in the brush — not in your paint job. The coated steel ferrule provides structural support while the adhesive bond ensures clean performance on every stroke. Premium SRT synthetic filaments load more paint and release it evenly for a smooth streak-free finish on walls, ceilings, and trim. Works with latex, oil-based paint, primer, sealer, and wood stain.
- INCLUDES THE ANGLE STUBBY MOST SETS LEAVE OUT — Professional painters know the 2 Inch Angle Stubby is the go-to brush for tight cabinet interiors, window sashes, inside corners, and detailed trim where standard angle brushes are too long. Combined with the 1.5 and 2.5 inch angle sash brushes you have precision cutting-in covered at every scale — baseboards, crown molding, door casings, and ceiling lines.
- FLAT BRUSHES FOR BROAD SMOOTH COVERAGE ON ANY SURFACE — The 1 and 2 inch flat brushes deliver even coverage on walls, furniture, shelving, doors, fences, decks, and wood surfaces. Ideal for applying primers, stains, varnishes, polyurethane, and specialty coatings. Solid wood handles provide all-day comfort and control for both professional contractors and weekend DIY homeowners tackling interior or exterior painting projects.
- TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND CONTRACTORS NATIONWIDE — Pro Grade delivers professional-grade results at a price that makes sense for crews who go through brushes on every job. Ideal for property managers, remodeling contractors, apartment turnover crews, maintenance teams, and commercial painting operations. Backed by thousands of verified reviews from working painters. Washable and reusable for multiple projects.
Eleven upcycled wood-box ideas
| Idea | Starting material | Best placement | Base and drainage approach | Build effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Classic reclaimed-board trough | Scrap or reclaimed boards | Ground, deck, or balcony | Bottom with several holes on hard surfaces; optional open base on soil when appropriate | Cutting, fastening, drilling, sanding |
| 2. Single-crate window box | Existing wooden crate | Window ledge or railing shelf | Liner with openings, or an intact base drilled for drainage | Low; mostly inspection and drilling |
| 3. Long, low balcony box | Two or more matching boards | Balcony or narrow deck edge | Solid bottom, multiple exit holes, and a stand that keeps holes clear | Moderate |
| 4. Square tabletop planter | Short offcuts assembled into a cube | Table, step, or patio surface | Lined interior with holes through the base; use a saucer or feet | Moderate |
| 5. Tiered stair-step display | Three boxes or crates in graduated sizes | Ground or wide steps | Drain each box separately; keep lower boxes from blocking upper outlets | Low to moderate |
| 6. Corner L-shaped planter | Reclaimed boards joined at a right angle | Patio or garden corner | Separate compartments or a continuous perforated base | Moderate to high |
| 7. Rustic pollinator box | Weathered timber box | Ground near a sunny boundary | Open or perforated base suited to soil contact; prevent standing water | Low |
| 8. Vertical wall crate stack | Several shallow crates | Wall or fence | Each crate needs its own lined, perforated base and secure support | Moderate |
| 9. Handle-side herb-and-flower crate | Crate with hand holes | Portable patio or doorstep | Drilled base or liner with drainage openings; keep lifting weight manageable | Low |
| 10. Divided color-block box | One deep reclaimed box and removable dividers | Deck, terrace, or ground | One shared perforated base, with dividers stopping short of drainage paths | Moderate |
| 11. Hanging half-crate | Shallow crate or cut-down box | Covered porch or sturdy beam | Lightweight liner with holes; drainage must not drip onto people or walls | Moderate; hardware and safety checks required |
1. Classic reclaimed-board trough
Build a straightforward rectangular planter from boards that are still rigid and free of decay. Home Hardware documents this reclaimed or scrap-wood approach, while Home Depot lists a saw, drill, and sander as typical construction tools. Measure the intended spot first so the finished box does not overhang a walkway. On soil, an open underside may suit that particular construction; on a deck or balcony, fit a bottom and drill several exit holes. Inspect every board before assembly and confirm the base will drain before filling.
2. Single-crate window box
Use a sound produce or shipping crate as a compact window-style planter. Check that the slats and corner blocks do not flex, then measure the sill or shelf for clearance. A crate with a solid base can be fitted with a polythene liner, but leave openings at the lowest point so water can escape; Resene’s crate instructions pair the liner with drainage holes. If the crate already has a slatted bottom, make sure those gaps are not blocked by the liner or a solid tray.
3. Long, low balcony box
Join reclaimed boards into a shallow trough for a narrow balcony edge. Examine the long sides for bowing and place the box where its weight and width will not obstruct access. Because a balcony is a hard surface, use a solid bottom with several drilled holes and set the box on feet or a rack that keeps outlets open. Add a liner only if it does not seal the holes; water trapped against timber accelerates deterioration.
4. Square tabletop planter
Assemble equal-length offcuts into a compact square that can hold a small flower grouping. Confirm the table or step can support a wet container and that the box will not be knocked over. A lined interior protects the wood, but the liner must be perforated at the base and aligned with holes in the wooden bottom. A saucer can catch drips, provided it is emptied rather than left full after watering.
Rank #2
- Great Value Pack Artist Paint Brushes: Soucolor 20 brushes in 10 sizes professional paintbrushes set — no shedding, holds paint well, cleans easily, Acrylic, watercolor, oil, gouache, Halloween pumpkin decoration & face painting, rock painting, ceramics. Fantastic high quality gifts for creative, artistic siblings to share!
- Awesome Set of Paint brushes: Professional paint brushes can cover all of your needs. The multi-purposed brushes are ideal for Watercolor, Oil, Gouache, enamel, Acrylic Painting, Body, Nail, Face Painting, Miniature, Model, Wood, Glass, Cup, Ceramic, Fine work, Art class, Craft Art Painting, DIY Art Crafts etc.
- Soft and long-lasting: The bristles are soft and strong, with nickel metal ferrules and blue wooden handles. After cleaning, the bristles will become soft and fluffy again and will not fall off.
- Easy to clean: it’s very convenient to Wash well in soap and water. Retain shape after drying. the brushes hold up very well. Nice selection to beginners and professionals. Keep them clean and they last a long time.
- Halloween Pumpkin Ceramic Crafts Supplies: A Great painting gift for family, friends, kids, girls, women, student, classmate, teacher. For using in school, travel or used in the home and office.
5. Tiered stair-step display
Arrange three sturdy crates or boxes at different heights to create a stepped composition. Test the arrangement empty so the upper unit cannot slide into the lower one, and reserve the widest, soundest box for the bottom. Give every box its own drainage route; do not let an upper box discharge directly into a sealed lower box. On soil, place the lowest planter where runoff can soak away; on paving, raise each unit and protect the surface from persistent moisture.
6. Corner L-shaped planter
Join two reclaimed-board sections at a right angle to fill an unused patio corner. Look for straight boards and strong joints because the long corner seam will carry wet soil. Decide whether the interior is one continuous compartment or two; either way, the bottom must be perforated so water cannot collect in the inside corner. For a hard surface, include a bottom and spacers beneath it; for direct soil contact, an open base may be suitable for this style if the surrounding ground drains freely.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
7. Rustic pollinator box
Keep the weathered character of a sturdy timber box and use it for pollinator-friendly seeds, an input specifically mentioned in Home Hardware’s project. Place it in a sunny, accessible area where flowers can be observed without blocking a path. Reject boards that are soft or contaminated, and remove loose finishes before planting. If the box rests on soil, an open or perforated underside can let excess water leave; if it sits on paving, add a bottom with holes and prevent the container from standing in runoff.
8. Vertical wall crate stack
Mount several shallow crates on a structurally sound fence or wall for a vertical display. Check each crate independently and verify that the wall and fasteners can carry the combined weight of wet soil; a decorative box is not automatically a safe hanging container. Line each crate only where the liner can be secured without blocking drainage, and drill or preserve openings at every base. Leave a gap behind the crates so outlets are not pressed flat against the wall, and direct drips away from siding.
Rank #3
- 【All sizes of art brushes】: The 10 sizes of multi-functional brushes have various shapes, making the mixing color easier, which is very suitable for artists, students, teenagers, children and painters at all levels. Wonderful Present ideas for friends and family who like painting!
- 【general brush set】: Professional paint brush can meet all your needs. Multifunctional brush is very suitable for watercolor, oil, gouache, acrylic painting, body, nail, face painting, miniature, model, ceramics, arts and crafts painting, etc.
- 【high quality process】: It is designed with anti falling bristles, anti-rust nickel ferrule and solid wood handle. You can use the brush to focus on the painting and always be creative.
- 【easy to maintain】: After using the brush, it is very convenient to clean the brush with warm soapy water and reshape the tip of the brush. Air dry the brush and place it on top of the top for long use.
- 【100% satisfaction guarantee - buy now】1 packs of set brushes, you can also get friendly customer service, any questions feel free to contact us, within 24 hours to help you! There is no risk in buying our paint brush kit.
9. Handle-side herb-and-flower crate
A crate with hand holes can become a portable mix of foliage and flowers. Inspect the handles and corner joints because lifting loads the weakest parts, and size the planting volume so the filled box remains manageable. Confirm the destination before filling: a doorstep, patio, or ground bed each has different clearance and runoff needs. Drill the solid base or use a liner with drainage openings; never carry a box whose liner has become a sealed water bag.
10. Divided color-block box
Fit removable dividers into one deep reclaimed box to create separate planting pockets for contrasting heights or colors. Make sure the outer walls are sound and the dividers do not force the boards apart. A shared bottom with several holes is simpler than sealing each compartment, but keep dividers slightly clear of the lowest drainage path so one section cannot remain waterlogged. Place the box where its full wet weight is acceptable, and raise it on feet when it sits on a deck or terrace.
11. Hanging half-crate
Cut a shallow, sturdy crate only if the remaining frame will not split, then use rated hardware attached to a solid support. Inspect the cut edges, reinforce weak corners, and test the empty hanger before adding soil. A lightweight liner with drainage holes helps contain mix, but plan exactly where water will drip; a hanging planter should not discharge onto a doorway, electrical fitting, or a person below. Keep the planting volume modest so the support is not overloaded when the soil is wet.
How to convert a box safely
- Assess the container. Check boards, joints, fasteners, underside, and any previous finish. Remove splinters, protruding metal, and loose debris. A sound crate is a prerequisite, not an optional cosmetic step.
- Measure the final location. Record width, depth, height, sunlight, exposure to wind, and the surface beneath the planter. Confirm that doors, windows, railings, and walkways remain usable.
- Choose the base strategy. For the specific Home Hardware build, an open bottom can work on soil, while a deck or balcony calls for a bottom. For other boxes, use the construction and placement as your guide, but ensure every solid-bottom container has an outlet for excess water.
- Add drainage holes. Home Depot advises drilling drainage holes, and Home Hardware specifies a half-inch spade bit for its project. That bit size belongs to that guide, not to every box; select a hole size and number that suit the base without weakening it. Drill into a stable surface, wear eye protection, and clear the holes of splinters.
- Line only when it helps. Resene’s crate method uses polythene as a moisture barrier and then pokes holes for drainage. Houzz likewise discusses a plastic liner with drainage holes. Trim excess material so it cannot fold over and seal the outlets.
- Protect the contact points. Feet, battens, or a rack can keep a hard-surface planter from sitting in a puddle. Do not cover drainage holes with a solid mat. On soil, level the ground and avoid a hollow that collects runoff around the box.
- Fill and plant. Use potting soil, leave enough headspace for watering, and choose flowers suited to the actual light and climate. Pollinator-friendly seed is one documented option, but the project guidance does not establish a universal seed mix.
- Water and observe. Water slowly the first time and verify that moisture exits through the intended openings. If water pools, pause planting, clear the liner or holes, and raise the box until drainage is restored.
Tools and materials
- For a build-from-scratch box, a saw, drill, and sander are listed by Home Depot as basic tools.
- A cordless drill is useful when a solid base needs drainage holes; the guides support the tool category, not a particular brand or model.
- Reclaimed boards, suitable fasteners, optional polythene liner, potting soil, and flower seeds cover the core material needs.
- Use eye protection while cutting or drilling, and wear gloves when handling rough reclaimed timber.
Common problems and fixes
The box stays wet after watering
Check whether the liner covers the holes, whether a tray is full, or whether the planter is sitting flat against paving. Clear the outlets, reopen the liner, and raise the box. If the wood itself is soft, move the plants to a sound container rather than trying to preserve a failing one.
Rank #4
- Bates paint brushes come in a convenient 6 pieces with 3 flat and 3 angled bristle styles, including (1”, 1.5”, 2”) flat and (1.5”, 2”, 2.5”) angled bristles, perfect for tackling any surface painting or staining job.
- The sturdy natural bristles of each brush are designed to hold more paint, creating a smoother finish with fewer streaks and saving you time on the job.
- The lightweight wooden handles provide extra comfort and ease during long painting processes like walls, trims, cabinets, and doors.
- These versatile brushes are ready-to-use, easy to clean, and can be reused multiple times, making them economical as well as reliable tools for any painting project.
- Bates paint brushes can be used for both oil-based paints as well as latex stains and are ideal for home or commercial projects such as decks, fences or DIY painting jobs.
Water stains the deck or wall
Confirm that the drainage path ends over a safe area. Add feet or a properly sized saucer that is emptied regularly, and redirect a wall-mounted crate so water cannot run down siding.
The crate bows after filling
Wet soil creates outward pressure. Empty the container, reinforce or replace compromised boards, and reduce the span or depth. Do not rely on a liner to hold a structurally weak crate together.
The planter is too heavy to move
Portable designs should be filled in their final position, use a smaller soil volume, or sit on a wheeled stand rated for the load. Handle holes are not proof that a filled crate is safe to lift.
Choosing among the eleven concepts
Choose the classic trough or corner box when you have reclaimed boards and are willing to cut and fasten them. Choose a single crate, handle-side crate, or stair-step display when you want to preserve existing forms with little cutting. Balcony, tabletop, wall, and hanging versions demand more attention to weight, support, and runoff than ground-level arrangements. Whatever the style, a sound container and a functioning drainage path matter more than a perfect finish.
Best Value
- 2 Inch Angled Paint Brush for Precision Cutting-In – Designed for clean, sharp lines around trim, baseboards, ceilings, corners, and detailed edge work. The perfect size for control and coverage.
- Value 3-Pack for Pros & DIY Projects – Includes three professional 2-inch angled sash brushes — ideal for contractors, remodelers, and homeowners tackling multiple rooms or repeat paint jobs.
- Smooth Results on Walls, Trim & Cabinets – Great for interior wall painting, cabinet edges, furniture projects, and trim work where a smooth finish and crisp control matter most.
- Works with Latex Paint, Oil-Based Paint & Stains – Premium synthetic filaments hold more paint, reduce streaks, and provide a clean finish with latex paints, oil coatings, and wood stains.
- Works with Latex Paint, Oil-Based Paint & Stains – Premium synthetic filaments hold more paint, reduce streaks, and provide a clean finish with latex paints, oil coatings, and wood stains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can every wooden crate be used as a flower planter?
No. Use only a crate with sound boards and joints. Reject containers with rot, crumbling wood, unstable corners, or contamination, and inspect the base before adding soil.
Should I always line an upcycled wood box?
No. A liner is optional protection, not a substitute for drainage. When you use polythene, leave clear openings at the lowest point and align them with holes in the wooden base.
How many drainage holes does a planter need?
The cited guides call for several holes and, in one Home Hardware project, specify a half-inch spade bit. The appropriate number and size depend on the box’s base and strength, so do not treat that dimension as universal.
What flowers should I plant in a reclaimed box?
Match plants to the location’s light, weather, and watering pattern. Pollinator-friendly seeds are mentioned in one documented project, but no single flower list or planting recipe is established for every region.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
