Upcycle Vintage Ashtrays: Easy DIY Home Décor Guide

Got a dusty vintage ashtray lying around? Turn it into a stunning décor piece—whether a succulent planter, candle holder, or coaster set—in under 30 minutes with this step‑by‑step guide.
You’ll learn exactly how to upcycle vintage ashtray items safely, add drainage, and style them for any room.

How to Upcycle Vintage Ashtray into a Succulent Planter

Start by selecting the tray with the clearest glass and a shallow rim; the pattern can add character, but avoid cracks. For tips on picking the right piece, see our guide on choosing the perfect vintage ashtray.
Give it a good clean: soak in warm, soapy water for ten minutes, scrub with a soft sponge, rinse, and air‑dry.
Drill a tiny drainage hole (≈3 mm) near the bottom edge; if you lack a drill, use a nail and hammer, then sand the edges smooth for safety.
Add a thin layer of small river rocks for drainage, then fill with lightweight cactus‑mix soil, leaving a couple of centimeters below the rim.
Plant a low‑maintenance succulent (e.g., jade), press the roots in, pat the soil, and water lightly just to dampen.
Style it up: place near sunlight, add a decorative stone or driftwood, or group several planters for a mini‑garden display.
Think beyond plants: fill the tray with tealight candles for a cozy glow, use it as a stylish coaster holder, or hold tiny trinkets; the metal rim can even double as a phone stand.
All of these ideas first appeared on Ashtray Aesthetics, where community feedback sparked new twists and kept the experimentation going.
Turning a dusty relic into a cute planter is easier than it sounds—just clean, drill, add rocks, soil, and a succulent, and you’ve got a conversation starter.
If you enjoyed this guide, subscribe to the Ashtray Aesthetics newsletter for more DIY ideas, and explore the full Upcycle Vintage Ashtrays guide for additional projects.