You know that moment when you step into your garden, and it’s a beautiful chaos of colors and scents, but you can’t remember what half of the plants are? I’ve been there! Last summer, I planted herbs all willy-nilly, convinced that I’d remember which was which, but spoiler alert: I didn’t. Wouldn’t it be nice to stroll through my little green sanctuary and actually know that’s basil over there and not some rogue weed? Making DIY garden labels feels like a small step but a giant leap for my gardening confidence. Plus, how cute would it be to see my little creations sprucing up the garden? Let’s get crafty and add some personality to my plants!
Items You’ll Need
- Wooden Plant Labels
- Plastic Plant Labels
- Paint Markers
- Permanent Ink Pen
- Labeling Machine
- Garden Twine
- Wood Burning Tool
- Crafting Knife
- Printable Waterproof Labels
- Soil Marker
- Paint or Stain for Wood
- Varnish or Sealant
- Paper and Lamination Sheets
- Cork Coasters
- Wine Corks
- Old CD/DVDs
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gathering Materials
First things first! I tossed all my equipment onto the table. I have Wooden Plant Labels, Plastic Plant Labels, and my favorite - Paint Markers. I also pulled out my Labeling Machine because sometimes I just want that perfect printed label.
Step 2: Inspiration Time!
I took a moment to browse through my garden and get inspired. I thought about what I wanted to grow this year, and decided on herbs, tomatoes, and flowers. I jotted down the names on a piece of paper.
Step 3: Designing My Labels
I picked up a Wooden Plant Label and decided to use the Paint Marker to write on it. That's when I realized how fun it is to be colorful, so I grabbed a few different color markers and started making a rainbow of labels!
Step 4: Using the Burn Tool
For a more rustic look, I thought I’d try out the Wood Burning Tool. It’s super cool! I practiced on some scrap wood first, melting my way through to create beautiful designs and letters. It took a little patience, but the results were worth it!
Step 5: Printable Labels Adventure
Now I want to try my Printable Waterproof Labels. I designed them on my computer, printed them out, and cut them into nice little squares. A quick lamination with my Lamination Sheets, and they were ready to be stuck onto the Plastic Labels!
Step 6: Creativity with Wine Corks and CDs
Feeling extra crafty, I decided to recycle some items. I took Wine Corks and wrote plant names on them with a Permanent Ink Pen. Then I used old CDs to make quirky labels by writing on the shiny side. Each one looks so unique!
Step 7: The Final Touches
I grabbed my Varnish and started sealing my wooden labels, so they’ll withstand the weather. I also tied Garden Twine around a few of the labels for a charming rustic look. Everything is coming together!
Step 8: Labeling My Garden
Finally, it was time to label my garden! I walked around with my collection of labels, securing them next to each plant or seedling, making sure to place them where they'd be visible. What an accomplishment!