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Spring planting season brings big dreams and tiny seeds. It also brings the classic garden mystery. Is that basil or cilantro? Enter these simple DIY garden labels that keeps your garden organized while giving new life to a thrifted find.
With a handful of spoons from Goodwill NCW, you can create durable, charming garden labels that stand up to Wisconsin weather and add a little personality to your planting beds.
DIY Garden Labels Project Steps
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Metal spoons
- Hammer
- Hard surface like a concrete step or workbench
- Letter stamps and ink or a permanent marker
- Gardening gloves for comfort
- Seeds or plants ready to go in the ground
Pro tip: Mismatched or well-loved spoons work perfectly for this project. No need for a full set here.
01
Flatten the Spoon
Place the spoon bowl side down on a sturdy surface. Using a hammer, gently tap until the spoon flattens to your liking. You do not need it completely flat. Just enough to create a smooth space for lettering.
This step is oddly satisfying and a great way to release gardening excitement.
02
Add Your Label
Once the spoon is flattened, it’s time to label.
- For a bold, long-lasting look, use letter stamps and ink to stamp the name of your herb, vegetable, or flower directly onto the spoon.
- For a quicker option, write the plant name with a permanent marker. Thick tip markers work best and are easy to refresh if needed.
Let ink dry fully before moving on.
03
Plant and Place
Plant your seeds or seedlings as usual. Insert the handle of the spoon into the soil next to each plant, leaving the labeled bowl visible above the ground.
That’s it. Simple, sturdy, and endlessly reusable.
Why We Love This DIY
It keeps metal items in use and out of the landfill
It adds character to your garden without extra cost
It turns everyday thrifted finds into functional decor
It makes gardening more accessible and fun
Every spoon you thrift supports Goodwill NCW’s mission. When you shop at Goodwill, you help fund job training, employment services, and community-based programs right here in north central Wisconsin. Approximately 90 cents of every dollar is reinvested in local communities, so even a small DIY project can have a significant impact.
Make It Your Own
Try stamping dates for planting timelines, painting the handles for a pop of color, or using different spoon styles for different sections of your garden. This project grows with you season after season.
Next time you’re at Goodwill NCW, take a peek at the housewares aisle. Your garden labels might be waiting in the spoon bin.
Thrift with Purpose
When you shop at Goodwill NCW, you are doing more than finding great DIY supplies. Every purchase helps support job training, employment services, and community programs right here in north central Wisconsin.
Stop by your local Goodwill NCW and see how easy it is to turn everyday thrift finds into something meaningful for your home.
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