doll head planter
Jade Small
Jade Small
May 18, 2021 ·  3 min read

Turning Doll Heads Into Planters Is The Latest Home Decor Trend

By now, we should all be aware of the wonders of upcycling old unused items. It’s such a fun and creative DIY hobby. Also, it prevents these items from ending up in a landfill or floating in the sea. We all love to explore the art of decorating our homes in unique ways. So why not turn a few heads while we’re at it, right? Well, allow me to introduce you to doll head planters, a newly developing trend. These quirky doll heads are being repurposed from old toys. They are decorated to start new lives on the patio, in the garden, or your conservatory at home. So let’s look at how they’re made, and maybe you’ll get some inspirational ideas along the way.

Painted doll head planters succulent arrangement.
Image: @5678rach | Instagram

How Are They Made?

doll head planters

Now, as a pastime, this might be a bit Tim Burton-esque. Maybe it will even bring back memories of the sadistic Sid Phillips from Toy Story. It’s all in good fun, and when they are complete, these planters almost look like little statues. Let’s look at what goes into making your own doll head planters at home. This is the perfect opportunity for you to add your own personal flair. You can start by picking up the dolls at a market or from your local antique dealer. Try and find a few different kinds for some variety. Rubber dolls are preferable for this, as porcelain is difficult to work with.

Some tools you need to make your own doll head planters.
Image: @craftymumandabub | Instagram

Read: These Old Trampolines Have Been Transformed into Outdoor Dens and I Need One

Next, you need to decide what to put inside your doll heads. Flowers, cacti, or succulents work well but remember, they must have room to fit nicely. You’ll need a craft knife or hacksaw to open the doll head and a file to smooth the edges. Find a small plant saucer for the base, and you’re good to go. Before potting, you can decorate the doll’s face with paint or leave it as is. Arrange tiny stones, gravel, or the soil your plant likes in each doll head. If this is for a Halloween party or just a gothic decorative touch, go wild. See where your creativity takes you!

Dolls head planters containing succulents.
Image: @altheas_lair | Instagram

Where can I find them?

If you don’t have the patience for DIY, you can still get your hands on doll head planters. You might find them at art and crafts markets, or eccentric plant shops. You’ll find them on Pinterest or buy them directly from Amazon. There are also home crafters on Etsy and Instagram who can design them for you. Take a look around and you’ll be sure to find something you like. Perhaps you can even find an old doll on eBay and have it decorated by one of your favorite local artists. Think about where the planter will go around your house and I’m sure you can come up with some great ideas. These doll heads work well indoors or outside, so don’t forget to choose a plant that suits the spot where you want them.

These doll head planters contain dandelions.
Image: @yorktownflowershoppe | Instagram | Yorktown Flower Shoppe

No matter where you come from, there is certainly something haunting about these doll head planters. They have a special presence of their own. Maybe it’s those eyes that watch your every move? Or could it be the permanently jolly facial expression? Either way, they sure can grab your attention. Their strange character divides opinion and inspires creativity and fear in equal amounts. If you played with dolls as a kid or not, it’s never too late to put your imagination to work. See if you can come up with something truly unique. So, what do you think of them? Too weird and wacky for your taste, maybe? Or, perhaps they’re just up your street (which is Elm Street). Try making them yourself with your own twist, share them with your friends and family and who knows? You may just start a little trend of your own.

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