Thrift-shop terrarium centerpiece

Last week, for the first time, I ventured into a thrift-shop that was literally around the block from my house. I’m not sure why it took my so long to go inside, but I was pleasantly surprised and took home an armful of puzzles, a vintage top, an awesome purse, and a bag of Mega Blocks. I also found out that on Tuesdays, everything is 50% off! This week I went in there and bout a vase, a glass bowl, a crystal tea cup, a wicker platter/basket, and some odds and ends. I knew exactly what I was going to do with the glassware – make a terrarium!

Terrariums have been a trendy DIY project for a while, but I hadn’t participated in it as of yet. Finally, with an abundance of baby succulents growing in my garden and a renewed interested in pinned terrariums, I decided to look into it a bit more and give it a go.

Directions and care instructions after the jump!

Supplies:

a vessel of some kind – just make sure you can get your hand in there
Succulents
Gravel – check out the fish department at Wal-mart, you can find all kinds of colored gravel and it’s much cheaper than in the craft department
Moss (I found a bag at the Dollar Store)
Soil (cactus soil is best)
Optional – decorative rocks and trinkets

I had the succulents soil already, so with my thrift-shop haul, gravel, rocks, and moss, I spent about $8, for all 3 of the terrariums pictures, and I have plenty left for to make more!

Directions:

Carefully pour gravel into the bottom of your vessel, this allows for plenty of drainage for your drought-friendly succulents. I’ve read about an inch or so of gravel works well.
Add your soil. I like to add just a little water if the soil is very dry and dusty, it makes it easier to work with.
Carefully plant your succulents, be sure not to over-crowd your plants since they will grow larger and some will spread as well.
Top with decorative moss, rocks, and other trinkets

Care:

Keep in a sunny place (bright, but not in direct light is good)
Lightly water every week or two, depending on your plant. Soil should not remain wet.
Plants may need to be replanted after several months