The patterns in most old metal ceilings were stamped in a tic-tac-toe formation, but instead of Xs and Os, the same floral or geometric design was repeated in each quadrant. To sheath a wooden planter box, I used salvaged tiles in just such a grid with four 6-by 6-inch squares stacked one on top of the other and 12 across. Working from those dimensions, I cut the box’s wooden sides so the metal would fold neatly around its four corners. I left a 6-inch reveal at the top so I could tuck and nail the last layer of metal squares inside the box for a finished look. To guard against rot and insect damage, I built the planter out of ½-inch pressure-treated plywood and inserted a plastic liner. Read on for the step-by-step.
Step 1
Clean the metal panel
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8723.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Brush off loose rust and cracked paint. To protect against toxic lead, which can be released in paint dust, work outdoors and wear a respirator approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Also, pull on a pair of thick gloves so you don’t cut your hands on the sharp metal.
Step 2
Build the box
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8737.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Fasten together precut 18-by-18-inch panels to form the sides of the plywood planter. I used a pneumatic nailer, but a hammer and 1 ½-inch finish nails will also do the trick.
Step 3
Add bottom panels
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8746.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Secure the bottom (this is a 16-by-16-inch panel, sliced in two), leaving 2 inches of space in the middle for water to drain through. Then, nail a pair of scrap lumber “feet” perpendicular to the bottom boards. This will help reinforce the box and elevate it off the ground.
Step 4
Wrap the box
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8769.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Fold the metal sheeting around the sides of the planter, and use a rubber mallet to tap it flush against the wood.
Step 5
Secure the metal
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8773.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Fasten the metal to the planter box by driving in steel tacks along it’s bottom seam.
Step 6
Cut metal corners
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img_8788.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Use snips to cut the corners where the metal overlaps the top of the planter.
Step 7
Cover the edges
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8804.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Fold the metal over the planter’s top edge, tap flush against the inner walls, and secure with nails. To preserve the patina and prevent more rust, apply an exterior-grade polyurethane sealant such as Rust-Oleum American Accents Clear Top Coat Spray.
Step 8
Drop in the insert
![](https://s42814.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2008_04_salvage_img8828.jpg.optimal.jpg)
Insert the plastic liner, and fill your new planter with flowers. —A.R.H.