Recently I saw this photo in my May 09 issue of This Old House:

And it struck me like teen Disney stars hit medians…”there is an old ladder in the basement.” After I did my little heel click, I ran to go get her. She was all raggedy and worn in her old age – just like I hope to be one day.

Then came the issue of the pots. I had a bunch leftover from a church event that I decorated – the theme was ‘Names of God’. We stamped “BREAD OF LIFE”, “CREATOR” etc. At first I wanted to do “STUD MUFFIN” and “ULTIMATE HOMEBOY” but we couldn’t actually find where it said that in the Bible. It’s gotta be in there somewhere. Note to self – read Bible more. The leftover painted pots meant the only cost was the plants and some exterior paint. SCORE.

So to paint the pots, first you want to seal the inside with Thompson WaterSeal.  I used the spray and did about three coats on the inside and the edge.  Then for painting pots, I just got to it.  I chose a pale green, pale pink and pale yellow in semi-gloss exterior paint. Yes, it is like a baby shower exploded.

As for the plants, after the paint dried and they were ready for planting, I just plopped the plants inside with a little bit of potting soil.

And now for my grand reveal of my ladder plant stand (hold your breath, it’ll be more dramatic that way!) –

I really like it even with it’s ‘too-sweet-for-bunnies’ feel. And the thing is…our deck is pretty crappy. So it definitely draws the eye away from the ugly structure and to the plants with it’s easter-just-became-every-day color palette.

And because I could help but take some close ups – everybody loves a macro 🙂

So there you have it…one free plant stand. So how bouts it? What do you use as a plant supporter…have any unique potting methods? I saw this one using old cans & knew that you would love it. (Hi Kim!!!) And if you wanna holla out your cool-as-the-tundra plant stand ideas or potting ideas, please don’t be shy!