They come in many shapes and sizes and old or new, they're great for home decor and gardening. How can you use galvanized tubs?
Check out these super creative ideas and where you can find the best ones.
A few weeks ago, my neighbors moved.
They had lived in their house for more than fifty years, so you can imagine what a treasure trove it was.
They had lived in their house for more than fifty years, so you can imagine what a treasure trove it was.
For weeks, all sorts of unique items tempted me from the curb.
Since I'm still firmly entrenched in my simplifying phase, I refused to peek at the growing pile, but when two galvanized buckets showed up, I grabbed them.
And ran.
I've been drooling over the look of these metal buckets for so long.
Of course, now that I have not one, but two, I have no idea what to do with them.
Well, other than plopping my Christmas tree inside one of them when the time comes.
To be honest, I've been pretty happy just staring at the empty tubs for a good long time now.
They've been full of nothing but a lots of possibility for too long though.
I think it's time to fill them up!
Lucky for me, I have a ton of creative friends who shared some fabulous DIY ideas for both my home and my garden.
It's a good thing I have more than one tub!
So many great ideas.
How To Use Galvanized Tubs In Your Home And Garden
1. Add A Label
I absolutely adore the idea of dressing my buckets up with pretty labels.
What a neat take and with so many free printables available online, you can get any look that suits your style.
This technique ages new buckets and takes old ones to the next level.
Love that vintage look.
2. Paint Your Bucket
Painting is another option.
How cute is this?
And...it will work on any kind of metal bucket, not just the galvanized steel variety.
Get colorful and organized all at once.
Compost, flowers, shells, buttons, yarn...if you clean with it, garden with it or collect it, you can keep it in a bucket.
The options are endless. Fabulous.
3. Make A Galvanized Cooler
Galvanized coolers are hot, hot, hot.
And nothing keeps a beverage frosty like ice in a metal bucket.
On the ground, in a stand or set in an old chair, this idea is just delicious.
It's the perfect serving piece for a summertime soiree or during fall tailgate season.
Beautiful and refreshing!
4. Bring Them Inside
So when I think of galvanized tubs, I don't usually picture them inside, but decorating with galvanized tubs can be very charming.
This image changed is a perfect example.
Move them to the living room, kitchen or den and they become decor accessories.
Display them empty and on their own or as storage containers.
Blankets, magazines, old books, firewood, pumpkins, plants...Christmas ornaments, gifts under the tree or the tree itself, would all look amazing tucked inside!
Easy, elegant and stylish.
Doesn't get better than that!
5. Galvanized Planters
While using the buckets as planters was my original idea, I hadn't really thought about all the different planting possibilities.
And this idea is tops in any season.
Mums are just about ready to make their appearance at the nurseries in my neck of the woods.
If I plant them now, I could keep them on display until Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving people.
I am all over that.
Don't they look perfect coupled with the wooden pieces?
6. Container Gardens
A pretty container garden is another way I could add color to my yard.
I love adding plants to pots.
I can move them around the yard as the seasons change and progress and for some reason container gardening feels less taxing than landscaping.
The directions are so easy and if I added perennials they may even come back next year.
Maybe.
You have to remember who's doing the gardening here.
7. Centerpieces
A centerpiece?
I am in love.
Isn't this the sweetest?
Now my buckets may be to large for this creative interpretation, but I often see smaller galvanized tubs in thrift and antique stores.
You don't need a big bucket to make a big statement!
8. Herb Garden
The idea of growing my own herbs has always enticed me.
However, I've been at a loss as to what to grow my garden in.
Will it leak, will it stand up to the elements, will it be stylish?
Well, this galvanized tub herb garden solves all those problems.
How pretty would this look on my deck, right outside my kitchen?
Or in my kitchen for that matter!
Herbs within reach and at the ready when I get my cooking mojo on.
Real life function and real pretty decor in one rustic (galvanized) package.
9. Vases
Personally, I think there's nothing more charming than cut flowers plopped in a bucket.
There's a beauty in the contrast of delicate blooms and hard metal that I can't resist.
I picked this bucket up at the thrift store and spiced up the front with a label made on my printer and left the back blank.
Fancy on one side, basic, rustic, simple on the other.
I love choices and this vase gives me both.
10. Old Fashioned Food Prep
Of course, one of my favorite ideas comes from Pam at Biscuits and Burlap.
She suggested using my new tubs to shuck corn over. Hmmm.
That actually sounds like the easiest bucket DIY ever.
And you know how I love easy.
11. Grow Grass In Windowsill Pots
It invokes images of checked tablecloths and pies cooking in the window.
Well, if you're not into pies, than put some grass in teeny galvanized tubs on the sill and you'll have the same look without all the baking and prep.
Plus, it's fun to cut! 😉
12. Add A Dollar Store Decal
I was recently at the Dollar Tree and found not only an adorable galvanized bucket vase with rope trim, but a lovely pink flower decal, as well.Together, the were a perfect match.
In under 10 minutes I had a lovely new home decor accessory for my bedroom.
In bulk this idea could be used to create elegant, yet inexpensive, centerpieces and party favors.
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| Dollar Tree Galvanized Bucket Vase |
And there you go, 12 ways to use those galvanized tubs inside and out.
Well now that you have a ton of ideas, you need a bucket!
If you can't find one on the curb you can try one of these ideas.
Where To Find Galvanized Tubs and Metal Buckets
1. Antique Shops are going to be pricey, since they are generally selling true vintage galvanized tubs.
2. Thrift Stores are a less expensive option and sometimes you can score a vintage treasure, but they go quick since they're very sought after.
3. Yard Sales are another great place to score a galvanized bargain, but you have to love the thrill of the hunt. I have seen them there often, but again, they go quick and often for a premium price.
4. Ebay is like a yard sale online. You can look and find some great tubs there, but again, you have to be ready to buy since they go quick.
5. Walmart has a great version if you want new. They're very similar to mine and if you're not looking for an antique it's a score.
6. Home Depot has a gorgeous whiter version, so charming. They have traditional ones, too. Again, reasonably priced and you don't have to hunt for them.
7. Etsy has tons of really cute styles. Some have an aged look and some are actually vintage. Totally worth a poke around.
8. Tractor Supply Stores and gardening centers are also great places to look. These tubs are made for real outdoor use, so why not go where they are in stock and ready to go.
9. Target has a few cute styles, too, like the ones I used to grow grass in my window. They are so darling and super inexpensive.
10. Dollar Tree, believe it or not, has some great styles, too. Sometimes they're only there seasonally so you have to keep your eyes open or you can order online.
While I'm not sure which ones I'll chose to use , the one thing I'm suddenly sure of...is that I need more buckets.
Right now.
If you want to continue your vintage style decor journey you can peek inside my 1920s home....
Happy Decorating, Friends!
Hi Kim. Thanks so much for including my coffee table makeover in your roundup. So honored. XO Susie from The Chelsea Project
ReplyDeleteSusie, thanks for the inspiration...and ps, your table is beautiful!! :)
DeletePlenty of possibilities for those galvanized pails!
ReplyDeleteI have some old, (very) crocks that might look good with them!
Now I am going to have to look out for crocks, Lynne!! ;)
DeleteOk now I'm wondering where that curbside pile is... Nice buckets!!!
ReplyDeleteHaha! I know you are a great pile hunter!
DeleteLots of fun ideas. When my nephew graduated my sister used galvanized stuff for the grad party. It was so fun and she was purchasing stuff for a year in preparation. Her theme was blaze orange and camo with the galv. It was a lot of fun. Neat that yours are vintage. Love that.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a neat idea, Lorri! Congratulations to your nephew! :)
DeleteYou know I love them! I have them full of flowers and herbs, and then the water gardens.
ReplyDeleteBrenda
Water gardens....mmmm....great idea, Brenda. It's on the list! Thanks!
DeleteAll I can say is WOW your timing is perfect and those neighbors are the bomb! Too bad they're moving but what a score!
ReplyDeleteI know!! I never get this lucky, Gina. I will miss my neighbors, but I love my new buckets!! :)
DeleteI've got several in my garden, filled with flowers of course... but I really like your corn-shucking idea! :)
ReplyDeleteNo chickens in those buckets? Tee tee!! ;)
DeleteI love all these ideas! I am a huge bucket fan. I found two huge old ones in my garage from the previous owners. I have them both planted with flowers that spill over the edges....so pretty! I am always so tempted when I see them at barn sales.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds so pretty, AnnMarie. I have never gotten this lucky before. My curbside finds usually require some major renovation. Keeping my eyes open from now on though!! ;)
DeleteKim, Thanks so much for linking to my site just for the corn-shucking idea. Sara and I were doing a piece on southern-style creamed corn and I had just told her I wished I had a bucket to use and lo and behold there you were ....asking for ideas. What timing!
ReplyDeleteWhat timing, indeed, Pam!! And thanks for the idea. I can live out my farm girl dreams shucking corn in my tub. Perfect! :)
DeleteThanks, Kim! I have a few buckets!!!
ReplyDeleteJane
I think I have just become a collector, Jane! ;)
DeleteWe can see why you couldn't resist those galvanized buckets. Love them and the mini moss centerpiece.
ReplyDeleteMy mother used to say "You have to get while the getting is good" When I look at my stash of must haves I have collected over the years, I realize how much they have increased in price.
Myrna
Myrna, my sister went to a sale recently and saw them for upwards of $60 apiece for small tubs. I bet you have a small fortune sitting in your collection!! :)
DeleteI love galvanized buckets and if you fill them with flowers (especially mums) that's my favorite!
ReplyDeleteI am so doing the mum one, Lisa!! Love that!!
DeleteLol! I must be one of the few people who uses things like vintage galvanized buckets for their original intended purpose! Having said that, I'm at the point in my life where I have more galvanized and enamelware buckets and pans than I'll ever need so I use some of them for plant containers. I don't plant into them directly though as the dirt and constant moisture will ruin them. Instead I put an already potted plant in them or line them with heavy duty plastic tablecloth material to protect the pail or bucket before adding the soil.
ReplyDeleteI grew up with Depression era grandparents whom I loved dearly. It stirs up a lot of warm memories when I use items that my grandparents used in the same way that they used them. Sitting out on the back porch on the porch swing shelling peas into the enamelware pan on my lap, galvanized pail of unshelled peas at my feet, watching sunlight dancing with the leaves and listening to the summer serenade of the birds and cicadas, a cool breeze ruffling my hair, the sounds of children playing, the distant whirr of a lawnmower and the smell of fresh cut grass scenting the air...... it's like going back in time!
Enjoy your buckets however it is that you decide to use them!
Kim, what wonderful memories, you just made me think of my own grandparents and my own depression era parents. I appreciate the planting tips. These are my first galvanized buckets and I do not want to wreck them!! :) Thanks!!
DeleteHi Kim, gotta love a galvanized container. All these ideas are awesome. Thanks for sharing the inspiration. LOVE the sweet centerpiece too!
ReplyDeleteAren't all those ladies just so talented? Great ideas one and all!
DeleteWow, Kim, what a great curb-score! Galvanized buckets are definitely a decorating trend right now....both inside and outside. Can't wait to see what you do with yours!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Carol
Best window shopping - meaning I looked out my window - that I have ever done, Carol!!
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteLove galvanized buckets. And what a score for you.
I planted our canas in a bucket last summer. They looked great.
I used our other bucket for a Christmas tree stand. I did a rustic look.
I like the ideas you shared.
Carla
Ah...the Christmas tree stand!!! I knew I was missing a great idea! I am doing THAT!! :)
DeleteGreat ideas Kim! I have a few galvanized containers too:)
ReplyDeleteJemma
I bet yours are decked out with fabulous flowers, Jemma!! :)
DeleteSuper great find, Kim! I know you will put those beauties to good use. Take care, Maria
ReplyDeleteThanks Maria! I am looking forward to a good DIY...or two! :)
DeleteLots of good ideas here including corn shucking! :)
ReplyDeleteThat's my favorite, Deb! ;-)
DeleteOoooo, love all these. I'll have to search the curbs for a bucket for myself. Can't wait to see what you do with yours.
ReplyDeleteI got so lucky, Kristi. I hope that you do, too!! :)
DeleteThanks for all the fun ideas. I love galvanized buckets and might copy a few of the ideas.
ReplyDeleteI am so excited to dig in, Carol!
DeleteI'm sure that Mary Condo would have approved of your taking home the galvanized buckets. I didn't know so many wonderful things could be done with them. Now I want one. Or two.
ReplyDeleteAmalia
xo
Aren’t those ideas wonderful, Amalia? I can’t wait to get started! :)
DeleteHi Kim, wow how lucky to have scored those awesome tubs!! I LOVE all of your ideas! My sister in law uses hers for drinks outdoors at her parties!! The possibilities are endless. I like using them for planters in the fall! I know they will look nice whatever you decide to do. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Julie. I was so lucky that day...I know that if they were there for much longer someone else would've grabbed them for sure!! :)
DeleteGreat ideas, I love the herb garden! I am pinning this one and would love if you would stop by and share it at Celebrate Your Story link party! I would love to feature this post next week! I will be filling a couple with mums come fall!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Chloe. I love that idea, too. :) I'll pop by, thanks!!
DeleteOh my goodness, I would NOT have been able to resist the neighbor's trash pile no matter how much I was simplifying. Trash, especially interesting looking trash, draws me like a magnet. But those buckets were nice finds. I'm glad you weakened, Kim. You can do so much with them as you are showing us here.
ReplyDeleteI used to look and pick up anything that interested me Florence, but as my house filled up, I began to look away! These were too good to pass up, though, that's for sure! :)
DeleteI've got peppermint growing in one but I've got another nicer one that I need to do something with. Thanks for all the great ideas.
ReplyDeleteI really do like the herb idea, Ronda. It's useful and pretty...and I bet your peppermint smells great! :)
DeleteHerb gardens are GREAT...I also have ivy in two big buckets in a goat wagon, jimson weed flowering in a horse trough, morning glories on the patio in an old funnel, more morning glories at the back fence in a #3 washtub...etc.! Yes, I LOVE buckets, troughs and tubs!!
ReplyDeleteI am even jealous of yours :^)
Hugs,
J
Well, I am jealous of yours!!! It sounds fabulous...all of it. I have some work to do and fill mine up!!
DeleteWe had so many of these when I was growing up and thought nothing of them. After seeing this post I wish I had a few now. Thanks for sharing this with us at Celebrate Your Story.
ReplyDeleteI know!! When I think about what was given away or thrown out over the years, I could cringe!
DeleteStop the presses! You got those FOR FREE!! Hells bells I'm jealous! I paid more than $20 for mine (singular) at a garage sale. New they're about $59!
ReplyDeleteI'm using it as a planter with some petunias. I like the idea of herbs too...of course, you could always do a fairy garden ;).
xxx
Free!! And I hesitated at first...can you believe it?? Silly girl!! ;)
Deletecute ideas - we love to use them for coolers too!
ReplyDeleteThanks! Yes...great idea!
DeleteI am yet to make a galvanized water fountain
DeleteMe too...but it's on the list. So pretty!
DeleteI used my galvanized tub to create-a foot stool.
ReplyDeleteThat is an awesome idea!! Thanks for the inspiration.
DeleteSo many great ideas to choose from. I love galvanized tubs and buckets! My favs are the galvanized tubs with the labels and the compost bucket.
ReplyDeleteThanks Linda!! I love them too...
DeleteHi again. I love the old labels for the tubs. I hit the highlighted area to go to the labels and sadly the page didn’t come up. Said didn’t exist or something like that. Please help. I now am obsessed with getting the labels!!!! Lol. So any ideas for that would be awesome. I collect about anything galvanized. Especially wash tubs on stands. I have 3 double tubs on stands. 2 r missing the lids. :(. I also have 1 Single tab on the stand doesn’t have a lid. Are use the ones that don’t leak which is basically just one that wants but the ones that don’t are use them for doing wash outdoors. Spring cleaning of all the knickknack crap. Especially useful to soak my husband’s dirty clothes. He’s a mechanic, body shop and powder coats! So it’s great for that especially before they go into my washing machine. I have tons of ideas for you. I just signed up for your newsletter. Thanks again for the label idea. Shelly
ReplyDeleteHi Shelly!! I love all of your galvanized tub ideas and your collection sounds amazing. I sadly only have a few and nothing on a stand. That would be the dream!! I keep looking...
DeleteThanks for the heads up about the link. I was unaware that the blog no longer existed. I do recall that the labels came from a website called The Graphics Fairy. I believe the gal printed the labels out and then decoupaged them onto the buckets. I corrected the link so it will go to the website and the French label. You may have to poke around a bit for the other one...or you may find other ones you love more instead. She has thousands. I also saw the labels on Etsy for sale. Just plug in Ville De Saint Denis Label and it should come up. I hope that helps!! 😊 And so happy to have you following along!! Thank you!!