Live Branch - Hanging Terrarium

It is common to have a window above your kitchen sink. It is also common to have cabinets adjacent to said window. This was the case in my kitchen, so I came up with this simple, but elegant way to utilize the vertical space above my sink for a hanging Terrarium. Your kitchen may not have the same conditions to accommodate this particular design, but I am confident you will be able to modify the design to fit a multitude of other scenarios.

What I have here is Redwood, however, I am not 100% sure it is actually a branch, it could very well be a root. Regardless... I chose it because it was gnarled and down right gnarly. Most important thing to be sure of on this step, is that you select a branch that will be long enough to span the space between your cabinets. Then, of course, cut it to the exact dimensions.

With a sharp knife begin cleaning the branch by first removing any moss and dirt, then make a second pass to to be sure you have thoroughly removed all of the bark from the branches surface.

This step is pretty self explanatory, but one of the most time consuming. I began this process with 80 grit sand paper and worked my way up to 120 grit. I wasn't concerned with it being super smooth because I knew I wouldn't be staining it or finishing it with anything. This was just my preference, but if you would prefer a more finished look with clear coat or wax then I would recommend going to at least 220 or even higher grit sand paper.

When cutting the branch I was sure to cut it about 1/16 of an inch long so that I could wedge it between the cabinets, this way it could stay in place until I could get screws in either end. These Cabinets had 1/4 inch side walls so I used 3/4 inch long screws. I was able to screw through the cabinets from the inside directly into the branch securing it in place.

There might be other instructables that show you how to make your own, Which would be pretty bad ass, and I would encourage looking into. These happened to be gifts, so I already had them from the onset of this project. There fore all I had to do for this step was tie them to the branch. I did use a bead of hot glue at each not to ensure they would not come undone and crash into my sink. FYI, if you are looking to purchase them, The larger tear drop one is in the $35 range and the smaller ones about $15.

Thus concludes the live branch hanging terrarium project. I hope you or any one using the sink will enjoy it. Just don't forget to water the plants from time to time.