DIY Outdoor Water Fountain Made with Terra Cotta Pots

Adding an outdoor fountain is a great way to make your backyard or deck more relaxing. The sound of the trickling water will melt away stress and mask the sound of traffic or other intrusive noises. This terra cotta pot fountain will also add a lovely visual point in your outdoor space.

To build your own DIY outdoor water fountain, follow these step-by-step instructions.

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How to Build the Outdoor Fountain

Tools

• Drill with ceramic bit


• Utility Knife 


• Work Gloves


• Safety Glasses


• Grinding Point Tree


• Level


• Hand Saw


• Paint Marker

Materials

• (1) 18 in. Terra Cotta Planter


• (1) 14 in. Terra Cotta Planter 


• (2) 10 in. Terra Cotta Planters


• (1) 8 in. Terra Cotta Planter


• (1) 12 in. Terra Cotta Saucer 


• (1) 8 in. Terra Cotta Saucer 


• Construction Adhesive


• Epoxy Putty


• Pond Pump


• ½ in. Flexible Tube


• Large Beach Stones 

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Step 1: Fill Large Planter Hole with Epoxy

Begin by sealing any holes in your largest planter with the epoxy putty. The bottom planter needs to be completely water tight for the proper operation of the fountain.

Place the pump in the base of the large planter. Connect the flexible tube leaving yourself plenty of excess tubing for the moment.

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Step 2: Glue Support Pot and Drill Lip Notch

Center the 10 in. support pot on the 12 in. saucer, center it and glue it into place using the construction adhesive. Once the adhesive has set, use the saw to cut a small notch into the lip of the pot. The notch should be big enough to allow the power cord of the pump to pass through.

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Step 3: Drill Holes for Tubing

Next, flip the support pot and saucer assembly upside down, and drill a hole in the center of the saucer just large enough to allow the flexible tube to pass through.

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the next support pot and saucer. Drill through or increase the diameter of the center holes of the middle and top tier planters.

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Step 5: Insert Support Assembly

Route the flexible tube through the first support assembly. Place the support assembly into the large base planter taking care to make sure the power cord passes through the notch and drapes over the lip of the large planter.

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Step 6: Complete Fountain Assembly

Thread the flexible tube through the middle tier planter and slide it into place.

If the tube fits snugly through the hole you drilled, then there's no need to seal around it. If the pass-through is loose, then seal around it with construction adhesive.

Thread the second support assembly, finishing with the top tier planter.

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Step 7: Move the Fountain Outside and Check for Square

Move the fountain to your garden, deck or wherever you choose for its final home. To make sure the water cascades evenly out of the planters use a level to check for square, and adjust as necessary.

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Step 9: Install Flow Control

Fill the bottom two planters with stones, then cut the flexible tube just short of the lip of the top planter. Install the flow control onto the tube. Make sure the flow control is turned to its lowest setting as it will be adjusted in a later step.

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Step 8: Fill the Outdoor Fountain Completely with Stones

Cover the lower and middle saucers with the beach stones. For the best look, make sure the stones reache the lips of the terra cotta pots. Fill the top planter with stones till it stops just below the flow control.

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Step 9: Fill the Fountain with Water and Enjoy

Fill the bottom planter completely full of water and plug in the pump. As the pump sends the water up, adjust the flow control knob to your preferred rate of flow. When that is complete, fill the remainder of the top planter with stones keeping the hose as centered as possible.

Add water as needed to make sure that the levels of each planter stay consistent.

Now kick back, relax and enjoy your outdoor fountain.

Take a look at more DIY projects here on The Home Depot blog and follow our Outdoor Living board on Pinterest for more inspiration. This project can be made with a wide variety of materials, so browse The Home Depot's wide selection of pots and planters online to find the right style for your DIY water fountain.If you have questions about this or any other home improvement project, check out The Home Depot Community for quick answers and solutions. And check out a slightly different take on how to build a terra cotta pot fountain at homedepot.com.

The post DIY Outdoor Water Fountain Made with Terra Cotta Pots appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

DIY Planter Box Ladder

Create this Planter Box Ladder with a few simple materials, and give your patio an easy makeover!

Just follow this step-by-step tutorial.

Materials

• Liberty Hardware Ruavista Hook in Venetian Bronze, Satin Nickel or Champagne


• Behr Premium Plus Exterior Paint in Moroccan Ruby


• Angled Paint Brush


• 3 in. Deck Screws


• Brad Nails


• Wood Glue


• 3 – 2 in. x 6 in. x 8ft Pressure Treated Wood


• 4 – Cedar Fence Pickets

Tools

• Drill


• Miter Saw


• Circular Saw


• Orbital Sander


• Brad Nailer

You can rent these tools from The Home Depot.

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Step 1: Planter Box Cuts

The side ends of the planter boxes are made out of treated 2 x 6 wood and are going to be cut at 15 degrees off square. I made my first 15 degree cut, then measured the bottom part to be 5¼ in., then made my next 15 degree cut the opposite way (NOTE: these cuts are NOT parallel).

Once I had this first end piece cut, I used it as a template for the rest of my 2 x 6 cuts. To make four planter boxes, you will need eight of these end pieces.

The front and back panels of the planter boxes are cut from cedar fence pickets. These are cut square, and will be 23½ in. each. Again, once I had my first cut made, I used this piece to mark my subsequent cuts. You will need eight of these cedar pieces.

Your bottom pieces will be cut out of cedar as well; you will need to build the boxes first, then measure and cut the base to fit each box. I'll explain this again later (see Step 3).

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Step 2: Assemble Planter Boxes

Using wood glue, apply a thin beading of glue to the side of the 2 x 6 piece. I like this Titebond wood glue because it works for both interior and exterior projects. Place the cedar plank onto the side piece, making sure that it is flush to the top edge. Firmly press down until the glue is set. Using your brad nailer and 2 in. brad nails, nail the plank to the end piece so that it is secure. You can always opt to use screws, regular nails, or galvanized staples if preferred.

Repeat for the other side of the planter box, and for the remaining three boxes.

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Step 3: Cut and Assemble Planter Box Base

The base of the planter box is going to be made from the cedar fence pickets. Measure the bottom opening of each planter box, and make your cuts specific to the size of each box. Each box might vary slightly, in case your side panel cuts were off, which is why I suggest cutting to box size.

Drop the bottom piece into the planter box, then secure with nails or staples to keep them in place.

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Step 4: Cut Side Frame and Shelf

The side frames and shelf are made out of 2 x 6 treated wood. The side frame pieces are going to be 68 inches long, and each end is cut at 15 degrees. Unlike the side of the planter boxes, these 15 degree cuts will be parallel.

From the front side of the frame, measure and mark the 3 inch point. You are going to make a 90 degree cut at this point, so that the frame can rest against your wall. Use a straight edge to mark your cut. Use a circular saw or jig saw to cut against this line.

Repeat this step for the second side.

I actually used the first completed side as a template to speed up the process, and also to make sure that I didn't make a mistake with my cut.

The shelf is going to be 23½ in. wide; measure and cut using straight cuts (90 degrees) with your miter saw.

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Step 5: Sand

Using an orbital sander, sand each planter box, the shelf, and the frame pieces. I did not bother to sand the inside of the planter boxes since they were just going to be filled with soil and plants.

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Step 6: Assemble

I started by laying out my boxes and shelf to see how everything was going to fit. As you are determining your box and shelf layout, make sure that everything is flush to the back side of the panels before you assemble.

I knew that I wanted my first box at the very top, so once I got it into position, I immediately pre-drilled with my 3/16 in. drill bit and then screwed in my 3 in. deck screws, from the inside of the box.

I was not sure how far down my shelf should go, so I then started assembling from the bottom. I placed my next planter box a few inches from the base of the ladder. Use a scrap piece of wood in between your boxes so that you can space each box equally apart.

I placed my shelf in between my top box and second box. Mark the location of your shelf by using a pen or pencil and tracing the shelf. Pre-drill one spot through the board. The final assembly of the shelf will happen once you have your other side panel attached to the planter boxes.

Place the other leg on top of the planter boxes you have just assembled. Measure the distance from the bottom of the assembled box, and adjust your top leg to ensure that your boxes will be level. Pre-drill and screw your desk screws into this top side.

Remember that spot that you pre-drilled for your shelf? It's time to assemble your shelf now!

Screw your shelf to the frame from the outside of the planter box. Stand your planter box ladder upright, and then use a level to make sure that your shelf is level front to back and left to right. Pre-drill and screw in to fully secure.

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Step 7: Paint

Now that you are done with assembly, you can start painting! Behr has a great interior/exterior paint that I love. I went with their Moroccan Ruby color with a satin sheen because I wanted a pop of color to brighten up my neutral siding. Apply 1-2 coats of paint, depending on how deep you want the color to look. I love these paint brushes. They give a nice, smooth application of paint.

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Step 8: Add Hooks

Once your Planter Box Ladder is dry, stand it up against a wall. Determine where you would like your hooks to be positioned. Once you have an idea on placement, mark the screw holes with a pen or pencil. Pre-drill the holes using a 3/16 in. drill bit. Use a drill or a screw driver to attach your hooks.

I added two Ruavista hooks to each side of my plant ladder, but you can add as many or as few as you would like, depending on what you plan to hang.

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Step 9: Style!

Now that your new Planter Box Ladder is finished, it's time to add some soil and fresh herbs or flowers!

Your local Home Depot store has a great selection of plants to choose from. Make sure to take your yard's sunlight (or lack thereof) into consideration when picking out your plants.

To round out my new patio, I found this great patio bistro set from Home Decorator's Collection that fit my smaller sized patio perfectly! I added some fun outdoor pillows and a new door mat to add some more color and tie everything together.

I also decided to put in a few pavers to set my grill on, rather than taking up valuable patio space. It really helped to make the area feel a lot bigger!

Browse our selection of cabinet hardware from Liberty. Follow our Easy DIY Projects board on Pinterest, for more DIY project ideas.

The post DIY Planter Box Ladder appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

Sweet 'n Spicy Baby Back Ribs Recipe

Gather 'round on your deck and turn on your grill. Grab a few rib racks, sugar and spices, cut up a pineapple and don't forget your favorite barbecue sauce for this one-of-a-kind flavor combo. This baby back ribs recipe offers the perfect blend of sweet and salty with a kick!

Thinking about the perfect sides? Try steamed vegetables, sweet corn on the cob, mac and cheese, fresh coleslaw or baked beans.

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What You'll Need

• 4 racks baby back ribs


• 1 pineapple slice


• Your favorite barbecue sauce


• 2 tablespoons smoky paprika


• 2 tablespoons kosher salt


• 3 tablespoons sugar


• 2 tablespoons brown sugar


• 1 tablespoon ground cumin


• 2 tablespoons chili powder


• 1 tablespoon freshly ground pepper


• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper


• 1 tablespoon onion powder


• 1 tablespoon garlic powder


• 1 tablespoon celery salt


• 1 teaspoon oregano, crushed


• 1 slice fresh pineapple

Preparation

1. Mix all ingredients into a bowl, except your barbecue sauce and fresh pineapple slice.


2. Rub the front and back of ribs with a fresh slice of pineapple to invite a sweet taste to your tender ribs.


3. Cut ribs into halves.


4. Lather your ribs with the seasoning mixture, from front to back.


5. Place ribs on the rib rack.


6. Cook until temperature reaches 200° F to make the ribs as tender as possible.


7. When done, remove the ribs from grill and place in the oven for 45 minutes to warm and cook through.


8. Serve and enjoy!

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For more unforgettable recipes and grilling tips, check out our Grills & Outdoor Cooking board on Pinterest. Shop our Grill Accessories Department for everything from grill covers to vegetable trays.

The post Sweet 'n Spicy Baby Back Ribs Recipe appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

Smoked Pulled Pork Roast Recipe

Meat smoking isn't necessarily the hardest thing in the world to do, but it's definitely more involved than making hot dogs or grilled cheese sandwiches. For a well-smoked pulled pork roast, you have to get the temperature and the timing right, use the proper fuel and keep the heat steady for a few hours.

We recommend using a Kamodo-style grill and wood of your choice to smoke your pork roast. Remember to soak wood in a bowl of water for at least an hour before adding it to the flames. Dry wood will burn away pretty quickly, but soaked wood smolders for hours.

Here's a great smoked pulled pork roast recipe that'll have your mouth watering. It may take a little time and patience, but preparing a tender, juicy smoked pulled pork roast will be worth the wait!

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What You'll Need

• Pork Roast – approximately 8 pounds


• Your choice of BBQ Rubs

Preparation

1. Rub the roast down with your favorite BBQ rub. Use a basting brush to sauce your roast.


2. Leave the roast at room temperature while you get the grill up to temperature.


3. Put enough hard lump charcoal in the grill to reach a couple inches above the air vents in the ceramic bowl.


4. Put the lava stone on the lava stone rack and then add the grill grates. Plug in the electric starter and let it go until you see the charcoal begin to burn.


5. Remove the electric starter and let your grill come to 225° – 250° (recommended, but the temperature and cooking time are up to you).


6. Follow the instructions for your particular model to get the grill to the correct temperature. Remember, it is much easier to raise the temperature than it is to reduce it, so take it slow and easy. When the grill's temperature has stabilized at 225° – 250°.


7. Put the roast on the top rack and shut the lid. That's it! The length of time and temperature cooking us up to you!

Check your grill  to make sure the temperature remains constant.  Follow your grill instructions if you need to add more charcoal. Adjust the cooking temperature and time according to your preferences. For example, if you're in a rush, use a higher temperature and cook for less time. We do suggest that you adopt the “slow and steady” method for best results!

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Check out our Grills & Outdoor Cooking board on Pinterest for more inspiration and grilling recipes. Shop our Grill Accessories Department for everything from charcoal to thermometers and more.

The post Smoked Pulled Pork Roast Recipe appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

Asparagus and Potatoes Recipe

What better to accompany your steak and chicken than a savory serving of asparagus and potatoes? This asparagus and potatoes recipe brings together a classic combination that's full of flavor, easy to prepare, and it'll make all your guests happy!

This recipe is hearty, satisfying and full of flavor, perfect for any cookout. Pair your asparagus and potatoes with tender, juicy sirloin steak or grilled lemon chicken. We'll be using a 2-burner gas grill from STOK with a grilling basket insert that's made just for this kind of recipe.

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What You'll Need

• 2 pounds asparagus


• 1½ pounds red potatoes


• 6 tablespoons olive oil


• 2 tablespoons sea salt


• 2 tablespoons pepper


• 2 tablespoons rosemary

Preparation

1. Gather the ingredients and set grill to high heat.


2. Coat the asparagus with 3 tablespoons olive oil.


3. In separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. Sprinkle half the mixture on the asparagus.


4. Coat the potatoes with what's left of the olive oil.


5. Sprinkle what is left of the rosemary mixture on the potatoes and mix until well-coated.


6. Place the potatoes in the grilling basket insert and cook for twenty minutes.


7. Remove the potatoes and place the asparagus in the grilling basket insert. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.


8. Remove the asparagus from grill, serve and enjoy!

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Are you inspired? Check out our Grills & Outdoor Cooking Pinterest board for more tips and recipes. Shop our Grill Accessories Department for everything from grill inserts to charcoal, and get your meals done right!

The post Asparagus and Potatoes Recipe appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

Transform a Cabinet with Velvety Smooth Chalked Paint

In this project, we gave a chateau cabinet a completely new look with Chalked Ultra Matte Paint. This paint's velvety-smooth finish is unlike any other, making it easy to transform this cabinet into a stunning focal point in your home.

Materials

• Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint – Aged Gray or Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint – Aged Gray


• Rust-Oleum Chalked Protective Topcoat


• Chateau Cabinet


• Paint Brush


• Screwdriver


• Drop Cloth


• Latex Gloves


• Respirator Mask (if spray painting)


• Tack Cloth


• Medium Grit Sandpaper (optional)


• Stir Stick

Before You Start

Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves while painting. If you're using Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint, we also recommend wearing a respirator mask–especially when spraying in a confined space, like your garage. Make sure your cabinet is completely free of any dirt or dust before you begin painting.

Step 1: Use a Drop Cloth

To get started, spread out a drop cloth to protect your workspace from paint.

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Step 2: Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Use a screwdriver to remove all hardware and doors from the cabinet. This will make it easier to paint.

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Step 3: Stir the Chalked Paint

Use a stir stick to thoroughly stir your chalked paint. If you're using Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint, shake the can for one minute after the mixing ball starts to rattle.

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Step 4: Apply the Paint

Apply up to three even coats of paint to the cabinet, allowing 30 minutes in between each coat. Always brush in the direction of the wood grain.

Once you're finished with your last coat, let the paint dry for four hours before moving on to the next step.

If you're using Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint, hold the can 10-12 in. away from the cabinet, and spray two or more light coats in a sweeping motion. Allow a few minutes in between each coat. Let the paint dry for four hours.

TIP: Want to give your cabinet a shabby chic look? You can easily distress chalked paint with medium grit sandpaper for a gorgeously aged finish. Just wait for your paint to dry for at least four hours, then follow the directions on the label to distress.

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Step 5: Stir Chalked Protective Topcoat

Now that the paint is dry, open your Chalked Protective Topcoat and use a clean stir stick to stir it thoroughly.

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Step 6: Apply Chalked Protective Topcoat

Next, apply up to two even coats of Chalked Protective Topcoat to the cabinet. Brush the topcoat on with light, even strokes, and be careful not to over brush it.

Allow 30 minutes between coats.

TIP: If you prefer spray paint, this chalked paint also comes in a Protective Topcoat Spray that you can apply in the same way as Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint in Step 4.

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Step 7: Let the Topcoat Dry

The Protective Topcoat will dry clear in about four hours.

Once your cabinet is completely dry, replace the doors and hardware.

Now that your beautiful new matte finish cabinet is complete, it's time to accessorize! You can get our look by adding a glass vase painted with Mirror Finish, Chalked picture frames in Charcoal, and a decorative bowl spray painted with Universal Metallic in Aged Copper.

Browse Rust-Oleum products at The Home Depot in our Paint Department. Follow our All About Paint board on Pinterest for more ideas and inspiration for paint projects.

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