Garden Accessories can be functional; but most often, they are placed in gardens for their charm and whimsy. From cheap mechanical croaking frogs to expensive gazebos, we just can't get enough of them. For instance, a garden cart can hold a watering can, hand tools, and gloves; or it can be used as a garden end table, or placed in an outdoor setting for visual appeal only.

Garden accessories don't have to be functional. Statues give style to a garden, while fountains and waterfalls create mist and water sounds. Garden structures such as arches and gates create entry ways or exits. Windmills and water wheels add movement. Yet, tables, chairs, and umbrellas are functional and are physically inviting and add comfort.

The beauty about garden accessories is that they don't have to meet the same standards as home decor. What's good about this situation for artists is that artists and designers alike can drop their guard when stylizing and designing for their gardens. If you feel anxious about painting a design on an outdoor piece or putting together a mosaic table top, make it for outdoor use! If your artwork is not exactly as you want it, its not as intimidating as long as you know it is going to be outdoors. It seems that outdoor art is a bit more forgiving. For my garden, I placed a metal watering can inside an outdoor cart. I painted the watering can with white house paint. Then, I painted a horizontal line with green acrylic paint around the watering can. Next, I sprayed the can with a clear coat of matte lacquer and threw sand onto the lacquer before it had a chance to dry. Once again, I repeated the process. Finally, I sprayed a final coat of clear matte lacquer for the finishing touch.

Today, the watering can looks pretty close to how I originally painted it?and it's been outside in approximately the same spot for about four years now with plants growing in it. This may seem unimportant and insignificant to some, but it is a rewarding experience to the person who took the time to add that special, personal touch to a manufactured garden accent. So, dont be afraid to get creative with your garden accents. You just might surprise yourself! (revised 2/12/2006)