What I like about using the letterpress letters is that it is a more permanent way of labeling and you can easily fit in a long name like 'rosemary' or parsley on the marker. (click on the image to see a larger version)
All you need to make the markers is a letterpress or other labeling device, a hammer, a board to act as a cushion, and markers. I use copper ones, but you can also use zinc. I found some of the markers at Target a few years ago, but I also bought some through Gardener's Supply Company. I love the patina of the copper when it ages.
I also made some a few years ago using a nail and a template from Martha Stewart. These were also easy to make, although my fingers were a little sore after making a few of them and you would have to make really small letters in order to make longer names. I think they just get prettier over time and the great thing is I can reuse them.
Even if you can't find a letterpress set, or don't feel like taking the time to make the ones with the nail and template, it is nice to label your herbs so that you can easily identify them. Besides the ones you make will look much more attractive than those plastic ones that come with your herbs!
Cool idea! I just keep the plastic insert that comes with the herb to help with identification but yours look so much better. Happy gardening!
ReplyDeleteThat is so cool!
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ReplyDeleteGreat garden so far! I'm jealous because I abhor having to buy fresh herbs each week.
ReplyDeleteYour garden is going to look considerably better than mine :-). This is a great idea that has been beautifully executed. I hope you have a great day. Blessings...Mary
ReplyDeleteI like this idea! I think I have some letterpress letters around here.. similar to you, I found them at an antique store years ago.. I may have to make some markers!
ReplyDeletehow wonderful! I love the pattern they make. I just found a box of old letter stamps in my basement. Not weatherproof, but gives me ideas - happy herbs!
ReplyDeleteThose are lovely, Elaine! I'm getting ready to put herbs in the planters on my balcony. I'm still cleaning up the back garden and thinking about what to put into the vegetable beds. Your labels are great inspiration - much better than using seed packaging or labels.
ReplyDeleteThose are really nice! I have some copper markers that I keep meaning to use in my herb garden - perhaps this will be the inspiration I needed!
ReplyDeleteHow lovely, Elaine!!! Your letter press is wonderful...I may have to hunt one down. You've inspired me :)
ReplyDeleteOhmigosh, I am SO impressed! And I have letterpress envy.
ReplyDeleteThose are beautiful!
ReplyDeleteNice plant markers. I like how you've labelled them. I have some wooden ones that I painted last year. Hopefully this year I'll get around to rubberstamping the names on the stakes.
ReplyDeleteI remember makign something like this when I was at school for a key ring, and wondered a little while ago on how to get hold of the letter presses, as I'd love some to do exactly as you have for my tiny garden plot. Thanks for sharing. Now I am off to see if I can locate some in the U.K.
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful idea Elaine. I like how the copper weathers too.
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