Happy Earth Day, friends!
At Compass Coffee, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do - from responsibly sourcing our beans, to roasting them with the world's most eco-friendly roaster, and finding creative ways to give our packaging a second life. This year, we’re keeping things fun and practical with a DIY that turns your empty Compass Coffee tin into a stylish little planter perfect for your apartment window, desk, or kitchen counter!
And let’s be real, DC living doesn’t always come with a backyard. But that shouldn’t stop you from flexing your green thumb. Whether you’re growing fresh herbs, a cute succulent, or a tiny tomato plant (ambitious, but go for it), this is your sign to get your hands dirty, in a good way.
Why We Love This Project
It’s sustainable. You’re reusing what you already have, our tins are the perfect size, made from recyclable metal, and totally chic on their own.
It’s customizable. Go minimalist with a clean look or break out the paint pens, stickers, and washi tape. This is your planter, your rules.
It’s perfect for city life. No garden? No problem. These tins fit on any windowsill and make your kitchen or living room look instantly greener.
It supports a circular lifestyle. Not only are you upcycling a tin, but you can also use your old coffee grounds as fertilizer. Yep, really. Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which plants love. Just mix them into your soil or sprinkle them around the base of your plant like a little eco-magic.
Step-by-Step: Make Your Tin Planter
Here’s how to turn your empty Compass Coffee tin into a mini garden that loves the Earth as much as you do:
What You’ll Need:
- 1 empty Compass Coffee tin (bonus points if it's your fave roast!)
- A hammer and nail or drill (to poke drainage holes)
- Potting soil
- Your plant or seeds of choice
- Used coffee grounds (optional but awesome)
- Decorations: paint, stickers, twine—get creative!
Step 1: Clean Your Tin
Rinse out any leftover coffee dust and peel off the label if you want a blank canvas. Let it dry completely before moving on.
Step 2: Add Drainage Holes
Use a hammer and nail or a drill to poke 3-4 small holes in the bottom of the tin. This prevents water from pooling and keeps your roots happy.
Pro Tip: Put a towel underneath the tin while you work to keep it steady and protect your surface.
Step 3: Add Soil (and Coffee Grounds!)
Fill your tin about ¾ of the way with potting soil. Mix in some used coffee grounds to add a little nutrient boost. Just don’t go overboard too much can be acidic. A tablespoon or two is perfect.
Step 4: Plant Time
Pop in your plant or seeds. Gently pat down the soil around it, and give it a light water. Then find a sunny spot where your new green buddy can thrive.
Step 5: Customize!
Here’s the fun part. Paint it, label it, wrap it in twine, write your plant’s name, or just leave it simple and sleek. However you decorate, it’s guaranteed to make your space feel a little brighter and greener.
Bonus: Tin Planters in the Wild 🌿
You might’ve already spotted these upcycled tins doing their thing around our cafes showing off some fresh herbs, flowers, and a whole lot of personality. Next time you swing by for a cold brew, take a look! We love finding creative, low-waste ways to green up our spaces, and these planters are just one small (but mighty) example.
Happy planting, and happy Earth Day!
