20 Clever Garden Fence Decoration Ideas Made From Repurposed Items

Old frames, cans, crates and windows can turn a plain fence into garden art, and the smart version checks for lead paint, hangs weight on posts and keeps bird feeders clean.

A plain fence is a blank wall. You can leave it that way, or you can turn it into the best-looking part of your garden. Old frames, cans and crates do the job well, and they cost very little.

This guide gives you 20 ways to decorate a fence with repurposed items. Each one shows what to use, how to mount it and what to watch for. We also cover the safety side most lists skip: lead paint on old pieces, sharp edges and feeder hygiene.

For salvaged metal ideas, see our rusty metal garden ideas.

Quick Answer

Start with how your fence is built. Wood panels take screws, chain-link takes hooks and wire, and metal fences take clips or magnets.

Mount weight on posts or rails, not thin pickets. Seal wood, paint metal and use outdoor-rated hardware.

Check old items before you use them. The EPA says old or worn lead paint creates chips and dust, so skip old frames and windows with flaking paint. Wash your hands after handling them.

If you hang a bird feeder, clean it. UNH Extension says to clean feeders about every other week.

But keep it simple. Three repeated items look better than twelve random ones.

Seal wood, paint metal and use outdoor screws. Hang heavy pieces from two points, and check the mounts each season. Keep glass and tiny parts away from kids and pets.

How Do You Match Decor to Your Fence?

Different fences need different mounting. Match the method to the material.

Fence type	Best way to mount	Avoid
Wood panels	Screws into posts and rails, hooks	Nails in thin pickets
Chain-link	S-hooks, zip ties, wire	Heavy items on thin wire
Metal or iron	Clips, magnets, wire	Drilling holes
Vinyl	Hooks that hang over the top rail	Screws or heavy loads

Our take: if the fence belongs to a neighbor or an HOA, check the rules before you add anything.

How Do You Keep Fence Decor Safe?

Safety checks are quick and worth doing.

• Lead paint. The EPA says old or worn lead paint creates chips and dust. It advises wet-cleaning and wetting an area before sanding. If a frame or window has flaking paint, don’t use it.
• Sharp edges. Cans, tins and trays can cut. Sand or fold edges, and wear gloves.
• Glass. Keep glass above kid height, and use plastic or sealed alternatives where kids play.
• Small parts. Marbles and beads are choking hazards for young kids and pets.
• Weight. Anchor heavy items into posts. A fence panel won’t carry much.
• Wind. Secure everything. A loose frame becomes a missile in a storm.

Our take: when in doubt, leave it out. There are plenty of safe items to use instead.

20 Garden Fence Decoration Ideas

Each idea below lists what you need, how it goes together, how to mount it and how to keep it looking good. Skim for the ones that suit your fence type, then pick three.

1. Wheel Cover Flowers

Old wheel covers turn into giant metal blooms. They are round, shiny and already shaped like petals.

• Fence type: Wood or metal.
• What you need: Three or four wheel covers in different sizes, exterior paint, a brush, a rust-inhibiting primer and long exterior screws.
• Build: Wash each cover and sand the rim smooth. Prime the metal, then paint a center disc and petal colors in a bright palette. Paint a green stem on the fence beneath it.
• Mount: Screw through the center hole into a post or rail. Use a washer so the metal doesn’t flex.
• Make it last: Recoat the paint every year or two, because metal chips first at the edge.
• Watch: Rust and sharp rims. Sand the edge and wear gloves.

Our take: group three in different sizes, and stagger them at different heights. Odd numbers look natural.

2. Nail and String Art

String art gives a flat fence a pattern and costs almost nothing.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: A scrap board, short nails, outdoor twine or craft cord in two colors, a hammer and a pencil.
• Build: Draw a simple shape on the board, like a sunburst or a leaf. Hammer nails along the outline, then wrap twine from nail to nail to fill the pattern.
• Mount: Fix the finished board to a post or rail with exterior screws. This keeps the fence itself unharmed.
• Make it last: Twine fades in sun. Plan to replace the string every season or two.
• Watch: Nail tips. Cut or file them flat, or tip them with a dab of paint.

Our take: make it on a separate board, so you never hammer into the fence. Keep the design to two colors so it reads from across the yard.

3. Curtain Lights

Lights make a fence glow at night and hide an ugly one in the dark.

• Fence type: Any.
• What you need: Outdoor-rated curtain or string lights (battery or solar are easiest), small hooks or zip ties and a timer.
• Build: Hang the top line along the top rail, then drop the strands evenly. Tuck extra cord behind a post.
• Mount: Hooks on the top rail or zip ties on chain-link. Leave a little slack so wind doesn’t pull them tight.
• Make it last: Store plug-in sets indoors in winter. Check cords for cracks each spring.
• Watch: Indoor lights outside, and cords through wet grass. Use outdoor-rated, low-voltage or solar. For more, see our fence lighting ideas.

Our take: use warm white, keep the cords neat and put the lights on a timer. A fence that glows for four hours looks better than one that burns all night.

4. Picture Frame Gallery

Old frames become a gallery wall for the garden.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Five to seven frames in mixed sizes, one color of exterior paint, outdoor screws and inserts like mesh, a mirror or painted metal.
• Build: Remove the glass and backing. Paint the frames the same color, then fill them with weatherproof inserts. Lay them on the ground first to plan the layout.
• Mount: Screw each frame into a rail with two screws, so it can’t swing. Keep a steady gap between frames.
• Make it last: Seal the wood with exterior sealer, and recoat each year.
• Watch: Lead paint. The EPA warns about old paint, so strip or skip chipped frames.

Our take: paint all frames the same color and fill them with outdoor art, mirrors or mesh. One color turns a pile of odd frames into a collection.

5. Tin Can Planters

Cans make cheap planters that match any color scheme.

• Fence type: Wood or chain-link.
• What you need: Clean food cans with the labels removed, a nail and hammer for drainage holes, exterior paint, hanging straps or screw hooks and light potting mix.
• Build: File the rim smooth or fold it with pliers. Punch three or four drainage holes in the base. Paint the outside and let it cure. Add a handful of gravel, then soil and a small plant.
• Mount: Screw a metal strap around the can and onto a rail, or hang the can from a hook.
• Make it last: Small cans dry out fast, so water often and choose dry-soil plants.
• Watch: Sharp edges and no drainage. File the rim and always punch holes.

Our take: choose herbs that like dry soil, like thyme and oregano. Wet roots in a closed can rot quickly.

6. Bottle Suncatchers

Colored bottles catch the light and throw color across the garden.

• Fence type: Any with a rail or wire.
• What you need: Clean bottles in blue, green or amber, wire or fishing line and hooks.
• Build: Wrap wire under the bottle neck and twist it tight. Leave a loop on top. For a softer look, tint plastic bottles with a few drops of food coloring and water.
• Mount: Hang the loops on hooks along a rail, at different heights.
• Make it last: Check the wire each season, since it can rust or loosen.
• Watch: Broken glass. Use plastic bottles if kids or pets play nearby. Our wine bottle crafts for the garden cover safe cutting tips.

Our take: hang them at different heights, and keep glass above kid reach.

7. Candle-Holder Bird Feeders

Old holders make pretty feeders that birds find easily.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: A glass candle holder or dish, a small saucer, strong outdoor glue or wire, chain and a hook.
• Build: Attach the saucer to the holder so it forms a shallow dish. Let the glue cure fully. Loop chain under the holder for hanging.
• Mount: Hang from a post with a chain or wire, away from bushes cats can hide in.
• Make it last: Wash the dish often and keep seed dry.
• Watch: Dirty feeders. Audubon says to clean regularly, dry before rehanging and tidy below the feeder.

Our take: Audubon also suggests using several feeders so birds spread out. See our types of bird feeders.

8. Old Window Frame Mirror

A window frame makes a garden window that seems to double the view.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: An old frame, exterior paint, mirror-finish acrylic panels or outdoor mirror, a sealant and brackets.
• Build: Check the old paint first. If it is sound, clean it and repaint. Cut mirror panels to fit each pane and seal the edges so moisture can’t creep in.
• Mount: Fasten to two rails with brackets, not nails. Keep the frame level.
• Make it last: Re-seal edges yearly and wipe off dust.
• Watch: Lead paint and glass. Use plastic panes or sealed mirror panels, and skip chipped old paint.

Our take: place it so the mirror reflects plants, not the sun. Reflected sunlight can scorch leaves.

9. Crate Shelves

Crates make quick, sturdy shelves for pots and tools.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Three or four wooden crates, exterior sealer, long screws, a drill and a level.
• Build: Sand rough edges, then seal the wood inside and out. Arrange the crates on the ground to plan a staggered pattern.
• Mount: Screw through the back of each crate into a post or rail, at least two screws per crate.
• Make it last: Keep pots light and use saucers sparingly, since wet wood rots.
• Watch: Rot and weight. Seal the wood and keep pots light.

Our take: stagger the heights to make a pattern, and leave a few crates empty for breathing room.

10. Metal Tray Wall Art

Trays turn into a collage of color.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Old metal trays, rust-proof primer, exterior paint, a sealer and screws with washers.
• Build: Sand away old finish, prime and paint in a limited palette. Add a stencil or plain bands for pattern, then seal.
• Mount: Screw through the rim into rails. Use a washer to protect the paint.
• Make it last: Check for rust at the screw holes each season.
• Watch: Sharp rims and rust. Paint with exterior paint.

Our take: use matte paint. Shiny trays throw glare and can focus sun.

11. Outdoor Chalkboard

A chalkboard adds a message that changes with the seasons.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: An old cabinet door or board, primer, outdoor-rated chalkboard paint, a frame trim and chalk.
• Build: Sand the surface, prime it, then apply two thin coats of chalkboard paint. Let it cure fully before writing. Season the surface by rubbing chalk over it and wiping clean.
• Mount: Fasten to posts with outdoor screws, under any overhang you have.
• Make it last: Rain wipes chalk, so a small roof or overhang helps.
• Watch: Rain and peeling. Use outdoor chalkboard paint and a small overhang.

Our take: write the planting dates, a welcome note or the week’s harvest.

12. Colander Hanging Baskets

A colander has drainage built in, which makes it a ready-made planter.

• Fence type: Wood or metal.
• What you need: Metal colanders, coconut liner or burlap, three lengths of chain, an S-hook, soil and trailing plants.
• Build: Line the colander so soil can’t wash out. Attach the chains evenly through the handle holes and gather them at the top.
• Mount: Hang from a sturdy hook on a post or rail.
• Make it last: Water daily in summer, because open baskets dry fast.
• Watch: Weight when watered. Check hooks twice.

Our take: for more reuse ideas, see our repurposed garden tools ideas.

13. Teapot and Teacup Planters

Tea sets give a cottage-garden feel and have a handle to hang from.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Old teapots and cups, a masonry bit to drill a drainage hole, wire or chain and small plants.
• Build: Drill a hole in the base with a masonry bit, going slowly with water to cool the bit. Add gravel and soil, then plant trailing flowers or herbs.
• Mount: Thread wire through the handle and hang from a hook on a rail.
• Make it last: Bring ceramics inside before hard freezes, since water in the pot can crack it.
• Watch: Chips and sharp edges, and cracking in frost. Wear gloves when drilling.

Our take: choose pieces you won’t miss. Even a gentle bump can chip china.

14. Rake Head Hook Rack

An old rake head is a ready-made hook rack.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: A rake head with the handle removed, rust converter, exterior paint, screws and a level.
• Build: Brush off rust and treat what remains. Paint the head and let it dry. Check that the tines point up and are blunt.
• Mount: Screw the head to a post or rail, with the tines up.
• Make it last: Wipe the rack after rain.
• Watch: Sharp tines. Cap the ends with rubber tips or tape.

Our take: hang gloves and tools by the gate. The rack earns its place by getting used.

15. Boot and Watering Can Planters

Worn boots and cans bring humor to a fence.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Old boots or a can, an awl or drill for drainage, wire or straps, gravel, soil and bright flowers.
• Build: Punch drainage holes in the sole or base. Add gravel, then soil and plants.
• Mount: Loop wire through the boot’s pull tab or the can’s handle and hang from a hook.
• Make it last: Replace plants as they fade. Rubber lasts for years.
• Watch: Weight when wet. Use light potting mix and check the hook.

Our take: pick bright flowers like petunias or marigolds. They read well from far away.

16. Mason Jar Solar Lanterns

Jars with solar lids glow without any wiring.

• Fence type: Any with rails or posts.
• What you need: Mason jars, solar lids, wire for the neck and hooks.
• Build: Wrap wire around the jar neck, twist it tight, and form a loop. Screw on a solar lid.
• Mount: Hang from hooks at different heights, facing south if possible.
• Make it last: Clean the solar panel now and then and replace batteries as needed.
• Watch: Glass above kid height, and shade on the panel. See our DIY garden lantern ideas.

Our take: pick jars of one size for a clean look.

17. Old Shutter Art

Shutters add structure and a bit of age.

• Fence type: Wood or against any fence.
• What you need: A pair of old shutters, a lead paint check, exterior paint and brackets.
• Build: Check for chipped old paint. If it is flaking, skip or use new shutters. Clean, sand lightly while wet and repaint.
• Mount: Fix to rails with brackets, or lean them on a sturdy stand.
• Make it last: Repaint when the finish chalks.
• Watch: Lead paint. The EPA says to wet-clean and avoid dry sanding.

Our take: use a pair, one on each side of a bench or arbor, for symmetry.

18. Bicycle Wheel Trellis

A wheel makes a round trellis for light climbers.

• Fence type: Wood or metal.
• What you need: An old wheel with the tire removed, rust-proof paint, a bracket or screws and a young vine like sweet pea.
• Build: Strip the tire and tube. Brush off rust and paint. Plant a vine at the base and guide it onto the spokes.
• Mount: Fix the hub to a post or rail with a long screw and a spacer so the wheel clears the fence.
• Make it last: Check the mount each spring.
• Watch: Sharp spokes and rust. Cap the ends, and sand the rim.

Our take: choose light climbers. Heavy vines can pull a wheel off its mount.

19. Silverware Wind Chimes

Old forks and spoons ring softly in a breeze.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Old silverware, a drill with a metal bit, thin chain or fishing line, a branch or ring and a hook.
• Build: Drill a hole in each handle. Hang the pieces at different lengths from a branch. Add a flat disc in the middle to catch the wind.
• Mount: Hang from a hook on the top rail, away from walkways.
• Make it last: Check the line for wear each season.
• Watch: Sharp tines at head height. Hang them above people’s heads.

Our take: see our wind chime ideas for sound and safety tips.

20. Scrap Wood Birdhouse Row

A row of birdhouses brings life to a fence.

• Fence type: Wood.
• What you need: Untreated scrap boards, a saw, nails or screws, a drill for entry holes and mounting brackets.
• Build: Cut simple box shapes, drill an entry hole sized for the bird you hope to attract, and leave the roof overhanging. Drill drainage holes in the floor.
• Mount: Fix to posts at least head-high, away from cats’ reach.
• Make it last: Clean out old nests after the season.
• Watch: Paint and glossy finishes inside. Leave the interior bare.

Our take: see our types of birdhouses for entry hole sizes and designs.

How Do You Mount Heavy Items Without Hurting the Fence?

Mounting is where fences get damaged.

• Fix to rails and posts, not to thin pickets.
• Use a level before you drive screws.
• Use outdoor-rated screws and hooks.
• Spread weight across two points.
• Check mounts each season.

Our take: if you rent or share a fence, use hooks that hang over the top rail.

How Do You Make It Look Planned?

Random clutter looks cheap. A few rules fix it.

• Pick two or three colors and repeat them.
• Group items in threes or fives.
• Leave empty space between groups.
• Echo the garden, with plants in front of the decor.

Our take: stand back across the yard and squint. If it looks messy, remove two things.

How Do You Weatherproof Fence Decor?

Rain, sun and frost are hard on repurposed items. A little prep makes them last.

• Prime metal before painting, so it won’t rust through.
• Seal wood with an exterior sealer, and recoat every year or two.
• Use stainless or coated screws, which won’t streak the fence with rust.
• Drill drainage holes in every planter.
• Bring fragile pieces in before winter storms.

Our take: expect to refresh paint once a year. That’s part of the charm, and it’s cheaper than replacing pieces.

What Plants Pair Well With Fence Decor?

Plants soften the hard edges of metal and wood. Put low, bushy plants at the base and let a few climbers reach up the fence.

• Choose plants that fit your sun, since a fence can be bright or shady.
• Keep tall plants from covering the decor.
• Leave a gap for airflow so wood doesn’t stay damp.

For planting beds along a fence, see our raised flower bed along fence ideas.

Our take: let one plant repeat along the whole fence. It ties the decor together.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid?

Most problems come from weight and old materials.

• Nails in thin pickets. Fix to rails and posts.
• Lead-painted pieces. Skip chipped paint.
• Dirty feeders. Clean them regularly.
• Glass at kid height. Use plastic.
• Heavy items on chain-link. Use sturdier supports.
• Too much stuff. Edit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to decorate a garden fence?

Use items you already have, like cans, frames and crates. Paint them in two or three colors, and mount them on posts or rails with outdoor screws.

How do I hang decor on a chain-link fence?

Use S-hooks, zip ties or wire. Keep items light, since thin wire sags. See our chain link fence ideas for more.

Is it safe to use old windows or frames?

Only if the paint isn’t chipping. The EPA says old or worn lead paint creates chips and dust. Skip flaking pieces or use new substitutes.

How often should I clean a bird feeder on my fence?

About every other week, according to UNH Extension. Clean more often if you see sick birds.

Your Weekend Fence Plan

• Friday: Check your fence type and collect old items. Set aside anything with flaking paint.
• Saturday morning: Clean, sand and paint your pieces in two or three colors.
• Saturday afternoon: Mount on posts and rails with outdoor hardware.
• Sunday: Add plants and step back to edit.
• Every season: Check mounts and clean feeders.

Pick three ideas, repeat them and mount them well. That is how a fence becomes garden art.