Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Diy Iron Plant Stand

Iron stands can be highly decorative or use more subtle embellishments.


Building your own plant stand allows you to display your favorite plants and elevate them to receive more light. You can make a plant stand from almost any material, depending on the weight of the plant and your own skills working with materials. An iron plant stand holds up well outdoors and combines decorative touches with functionality. Does this Spark an idea?


Types


Before you build your own iron plant stand, you need to select a design and plan your project. Iron plant stands are sturdy enough to support multiple potted plants, which means you can build one with two or more platforms. A more traditional stand holds a single potted plant. While most iron plant stands are several feet high, the size should depend on where you expect to use the stand and what types of plants it will hold. For example, a tall potted tree looks best in a low stand, while a small potted shrub needs a taller stand to bring it up to eye level.


Process


Working with iron ranges from simple assembly to very complex processes. The most difficult option is making a cast iron plant stand. For this you need access to a foundry, which produces molten iron that you can pour into molds. Working with wrought iron is somewhat simpler and involves hammering prefabricated iron rods into the shape of your stand and welding them together at their joints. In either case, make sure you have the right tools and proper training before working with iron.


Considerations


Cast iron has a very different look than wrought iron, with thicker, more irregular elements and a more industrial look. An iron plant stand doesn't need to be made entirely of iron. A metal frame with wooden platforms for plants provides the strength of iron without the weight or difficult fabrication process. If you're not happy with the finish of your iron plant stand, you can always sand, prime and paint it to give it a new look. Distressed and brushed finishes allow you to make your new stand match existing weathered iron details in your home or yard.


Styling and Decor


An iron plant stand can complement several interior and outdoor design schemes, depending on the type of construction and the finish you use. In the home, an iron plant stand can be part of an ornate, antique style of decor. It may also suggest a rustic look, especially if it has natural wood elements or holds succulents instead of flowers. In your yard, an iron plant stand can suggest a European garden, complementing stone pathways and iron and wood benches.







Tags: plant stand, iron plant, iron plant stand, iron plant stand, iron plant, iron plant