Make a DIY Stock Tank Pool
This stock tank pool how-to will have you lounging in the summer sun in just one weekend — and for a lot less cash than you'd expect.
![Stock Tank Pool Stock Tank Pool, Cinderblock Steps, Trellis with Plants on Hanger](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-1.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081508632.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/editorial/profiles/editors/Rachael-Jones/rachael-jones-headshot.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.91.91.85.suffix/1677080765411.jpeg)
Summer is finally here and what better way to cool off than a backyard pool. Stock tank pools are trendy, affordable and surprisingly easy to DIY. HGTV stylist Jill Tennant shares a step-by-step guide to convert a livestock watering tank into a backyard pool that’s budget-friendly and super stylish. Flamingo float optional.
Materials + Tools
- 8' galvanized stock tank
- above ground pool filter pump
- above ground pool inlet kit
- above ground plunger valves
- pool filter cartridges
- chlorine dispenser
- pool skimmer
- 11 cans of matte white exterior primer
- green exterior paint
- paint thinner
- fine-to-medium grit sand blocks
- electric drill
- 2-3/4'' bi-metal hole saw
- painter's tape
- water hose
- tamper
- rake
- 2 bags of sand
- 2 sheets of 8-1/2 x 11" paper
- scrap craft paper
- 1 metal stake
- bundle of string
- white vinegar
- rags
- level
- tape measure
- pencil
Stock tanks are large water tanks primarily used to provide drinking water for cattle, horses and other livestock, but they're often repurposed in home gardens and yards to create ponds and swimming pools.
Level Your Landscape
Before you begin, ensure the area where the 8-foot stock tank pool will live is perfectly level. If the yard is not level, build a partially raised bed to ensure the pool will sit flat on the ground (Image 1). First, stake out the dimensions of the bed length with a measuring tape (Image 2). Then use a shovel to dig narrow trenches around the uneven sides of the slope to fit lumber planks. Place lumber planks inside the trenches and screw the boards together. Secure with mixed concrete. Next, add rebar along the slope where needed and cover thoroughly with a thick layer of dirt. Last, go over the entire area several times with a tamper (Image 3) and check frequently with a level (Image 4).
![Before you begin, ensure the backyard area where the stock tank pool will live is perfectly level. If your yard is not level, build a raised bed following these steps. Stake out the dimensions with a string and rebar. Then, dig small trenches along three sides of the uneven side or slope. Measure the wood to fit the trenches and dig holes for posts. Mix concrete, set posts and let set for one hour. Last, screw the boards to posts, fill the area with dirt and tamp to level. Check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_2-48_raised-bed.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081499902.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Before you begin, ensure the backyard area where the stock tank pool will live is perfectly level. If your yard is not level, build a raised bed following these steps. Stake out the dimensions with a string and rebar. Then, dig small trenches along three sides of the uneven side or slope. Measure the wood to fit the trenches and dig holes for posts. Mix concrete, set posts and let set for one hour. Last, screw the boards to posts, fill the area with dirt and tamp to level. Check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_1-48_raised-bed.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081499318.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Before you begin, ensure the backyard area where the stock tank pool will live is perfectly level. If your yard is not level, build a raised bed following these steps. Stake out the dimensions with a string and rebar. Then, dig small trenches along three sides of the uneven side or slope. Measure the wood to fit the trenches and dig holes for posts. Add dirt and tamp for a level surface. Mix concrete, set posts and let set for one hour. Last, screw the boards to posts, fill the area with dirt and tamp to level. Check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_3-48_raised-bed.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081497548.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Before you begin, ensure the backyard area where the stock tank pool will live is perfectly level. If your yard is not level, build a raised bed following these steps. Stake out the dimensions with a string and rebar. Then, dig small trenches along three sides of the uneven side or slope. Measure the wood to fit the trenches and dig holes for posts. Mix concrete, set posts and let set for one hour. Last, screw the boards to posts, fill the area with dirt and tamp to level. Check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_4-48_raised-bed.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081499292.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Set Circumference + Sand
Measure to find the center of the raised bed and mark it with a small stake. Then measure a 4-foot piece of string and tie it to the stake (Image 1). Take the end of the string and walk around the perimeter, marking the circumference as you go. Note: The marked circle will act as the place marker for the pool. Now dump 1-2 bags of sand inside the marked circle (Image 2). Use a rake to evenly spread out the layer of sand (Image 3) and use a tamper to flatten the surface (Image 4). Check with a level.
![Next, measure the total length of the raised bed to find the center point. Place a small metal stake in the center of the bed and tie a 4’ string to it. Take the other end of the string and walk around the perimeter marking the circumference as you go. Tip: This will act as the place marker for where the pool will sit. Then, inside the marked circle, add a thin layer of sand. Use a rake to evenly spread the layer and temper the sand to ensure it is level. Place a board across the middle of the sandy circle and check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_22-48_measure-circumference.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081502254.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Next, measure the total length of the raised bed to find the center point. Place a small metal stake in the center of the bed and tie a 4’ string to it. Take the other end of the string and walk around the perimeter marking the circumference as you go. Tip: This will act as the place marker for where the pool will sit. Then, inside the marked circle, add a thin layer of sand. Use a rake to evenly spread the layer and temper the sand to ensure it is level. Place a board across the middle of the sandy circle and check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_23-48_add-sand.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081504055.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Next, measure the total length of the raised bed to find the center point. Place a small metal stake in the center of the bed and tie a 4’ string to it. Take the other end of the string and walk around the perimeter marking the circumference as you go. Tip: This will act as the place marker for where the pool will sit. Then, inside the marked circle, add a thin layer of sand. Use a rake to evenly spread the layer and temper the sand to ensure it is level. Place a board across the middle of the sandy circle and check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_24-48_level-sand.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081501097.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Next, measure the total length of the raised bed to find the center point. Place a small metal stake in the center of the bed and tie a 4’ string to it. Take the other end of the string and walk around the perimeter marking the circumference as you go. Tip: This will act as the place marker for where the pool will sit. Then, inside the marked circle, add a thin layer of sand. Use a rake to evenly spread the layer and temper the sand to ensure it is level. Place a board across the middle of the sandy circle and check accuracy with a level.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_25-48_temp-sand.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081502235.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Prep Tank
Team lift the stock tank onto a raised working area, like a portable work table or several folding sawhorses in the backyard. Use paint thinner and a clean rag to clean the outside of the stock tank to remove any dirt and debris (Image 1). Next, use a fine-to-medium sanding block to lightly scrub the outside of the stock tank to remove excess shine and create grain for the primer to adhere (Image 2). Last, remove any sanding dust by using another rag and white vinegar to clean the surface (Image 3).
![Use a rag and paint thinner to clean the outside of the stock tank. Clean several times to remove debris and dirt.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/14/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_clean-tank-exterior.jpeg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626272726787.jpeg)
![Use fine-to-medium grit sanding blocks to add grain to the exterior of the cleaned stock tank. This will ensure the primer adheres.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/14/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_sand-tank.jpeg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626272726738.jpeg)
![Team lift the painted stock tank pool and place it onto the sandy circle. Then hook up the ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions. Then, check for water leaks by spraying water from a hose directly onto the drain ports to see if water leaks from the other side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside. Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill until full.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_33-48_wipe-pool.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081503953.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Protect + Primer
Cover and tape the inside of the pool with craft paper to protect it from overflow spray paint (Image 1). Next, add one coat of matte white primer to the outside of the tank (Image 2). Let dry completely. Then add one more coat of primer to the outside of the tank and let dry overnight. Tip: You will need 10-11 spray cans of white primer for an 8-foot stock tank.
![Cover and tape the inside of the pool with leftover craft paper to protect it from overflow spray paint. Next, add two coats of white primer to the outside of the tank. Tip: You will need 10-11 cans of primer white spray paint for an 8’ stock tank. Let the paint dry overnight.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/14/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_tape-paper.jpeg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626272726867.jpeg)
![Cover and tape the inside of the pool with leftover craft paper to protect it from overflow spray paint. Next, add two coats of white primer to the outside of the tank. Tip: You will need 10-11 cans of primer white spray paint for an 8’ stock tank. Let the paint dry overnight.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/14/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_add-primer.jpeg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626272726786.jpeg)
Mark + Paint Stripes
First, thoroughly wrap the lip of the stock tank all the way around with painter’s tape (Image 1). Next, tape two 8-1/2-inch by 11-inch pieces of paper together vertically and place them onto the side of the stock tank pool beneath the lip (Image 2). Then, use a pencil to create tick marks on the top and bottom. Once marked all the way around, add painter’s tape vertically along each tick mark (Image 3). Tip: Place a small piece of tape in the center of the sections that do not need color. Next, spray the painter's tape with a coat of primer to seal the edges for perfect stripes (Image 4). Let the primer dry for one hour. Next, pour green exterior paint into a paint tray and dip a roller into the paint. Apply the first coat of green paint to the designated stripe sections (Image 5) and wait until dry. Then, add a second coat for a bolder look. Once dry, carefully peel off the painter’s tape to reveal perfect green stripes.
![First, thoroughly wrap the lip of the stock tank all the way around with painter’s tape. Next, tape two 8-1/2x11 pieces of paper together and place them vertically onto the side of the stock tank pool underneath the lip. Then, use a pencil to make tick marks on the top and bottom to indicate where to add painter’s tape for stripes. Once marked all the way around, place painter’s tape vertically along each tick mark. And place a small piece of tape in the center of the sections that do not need color. Tip: To ensure perfect stripes every time, add another coat of primer on top of each painter’s tape piece. This will help to seal the edges before adding paint to the stripes. Let the primer dry for one hour.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_5-48_tape-lip.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081499959.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![First, thoroughly wrap the lip of the stock tank all the way around with painter’s tape. Next, tape two 8-1/2x11 pieces of paper together and place them vertically onto the side of the stock tank pool underneath the lip. Then, use a pencil to make tick marks on the top and bottom to indicate where to add painter’s tape for stripes. Once marked all the way around, place painter’s tape vertically along each tick mark. And place a small piece of tape in the center of the sections that do not need color. Tip: To ensure perfect stripes every time, add another coat of primer on top of each painter’s tape piece. This will help to seal the edges before adding paint to the stripes. Let the primer dry for one hour.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_7-48_mark-stripe-template.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081496691.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![First, thoroughly wrap the lip of the stock tank all the way around with painter’s tape. Next, tape two 8-1/2x11 pieces of paper together and place them vertically onto the side of the stock tank pool underneath the lip. Then, use a pencil to make tick marks on the top and bottom to indicate where to add painter’s tape for stripes. Once marked all the way around, place painter’s tape vertically along each tick mark. And place a small piece of tape in the center of the sections that do not need color. Tip: To ensure perfect stripes every time, add another coat of primer on top of each painter’s tape piece. This will help to seal the edges before adding paint to the stripes. Let the primer dry for one hour.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_12-48_tape-stripes.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081500209.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![First, thoroughly wrap the lip of the stock tank all the way around with painter’s tape. Next, tape two 8-1/2x11 pieces of paper together and place them vertically onto the side of the stock tank pool underneath the lip. Then, use a pencil to make tick marks on the top and bottom to indicate where to add painter’s tape for stripes. Once marked all the way around, place painter’s tape vertically along each tick mark. And place a small piece of tape in the center of the sections that do not need color. Tip: To ensure perfect stripes every time, add another coat of primer on top of each painter’s tape piece. This will help to seal the edges before adding paint to the stripes. Let the primer dry for one hour.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_9-48_primer-stripes.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081497443.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Next, pour green exterior paint into a paint tray and dip a roller into the paint. Add the first coat to the designated stripe sections and wait until dry. Then, add a second coat for a bolder look. Once dry, carefully peel off the painter’s tape to reveal perfect green stripes.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_10-48_paint-stripes.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081498123.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Drill Holes + Add Drain Kits
Use an electric drill and 2-3/4-inch hole saw drill bit to make the holes for the above ground pool inlet set (Image 1). Note: Drill holes per instructions on the inlet set. Once the holes are drilled, use a course file to remove any rough metal edges. Secure the outside of the drain with caulking (Image 2) and attach the remaining parts following the kit instructions.
![Use an electric drill and 2-3/4’’ hole saw drill bit to make the holes for the pool outlet and inlet sets. The outlet hole should be between the two middle ribs on the stock tank pool. The inlet hole should be down at the bottom, to the left of the outlet hole. Once the holes are drilled, use a course file to remove any rough metal edges. Then, add the above ground pool outlet and inlet kits. Secure the outside of the drain with caulking and attach to the pool per instructions on the kit.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_15-48_drill-holes.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081499556.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Use an electric drill and 2-3/4’’ hole saw drill bit to make the holes for the pool outlet and inlet sets. The outlet hole should be between the two middle ribs on the stock tank pool. The inlet hole should be down at the bottom, to the left of the outlet hole. Once the holes are drilled, use a course file to remove any rough metal edges. Then, add the above ground pool outlet and inlet kits. Secure the outside of the drain with caulking and attach to the pool per instructions on the kit.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_18-48_drain-kit.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081502207.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Installing the Pool
Team lift the painted stock tank pool (Image 1) and place it onto the marked, sandy circle (Image 2). Then hook up the above ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions (Image 3). Tip: Check for water leaks by spraying water from a water hose directly onto the drain ports to see if any leaks occur on either side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside (Image 4). Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill (Image 5).
![Team lift the painted stock tank pool and place it onto the sandy circle. Then hook up the ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions. Then, check for water leaks by spraying water from a hose directly onto the drain ports to see if water leaks from the other side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside. Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill until full.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_26-48_move-pool.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081504312.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Team lift the painted stock tank pool and place it onto the sandy circle. Then hook up the ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions. Then, check for water leaks by spraying water from a hose directly onto the drain ports to see if water leaks from the other side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside. Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill until full.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_27-48_move-pool.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081503717.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Team lift the painted stock tank pool and place it onto the sandy circle. Then hook up the ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions. Then, check for water leaks by spraying water from a hose directly onto the drain ports to see if water leaks from the other side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside. Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill until full.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_31-48_attach-filter.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081503648.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Use a handheld vacuum to clean debris from inside the pool.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_32-48_vacuum-pool.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081502985.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Team lift the painted stock tank pool and place it onto the sandy circle. Then hook up the ground plunger valves, above ground pool pump and filter per their instructions. Then, check for water leaks by spraying water from a hose directly onto the drain ports to see if water leaks from the other side. Next, climb into the tank and use a small vacuum to remove any debris or shaved metal from the inside. Wipe down the inside with a rag and white vinegar to prepare for filling. Place a water hose inside the tank and fill until full.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_35-48_fill-pool.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081504903.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Trellis Pool Storage
![Outdoor Trellis Hanger Woman Puts Hat on Fence Trellis, Colorful Towels on Hanger](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-9.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081510755.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Materials + Tools
- oversized "s" hooks
- 4 heavy duty wall hooks
Create extra pool storage with a trellis. Start by measuring the wooden trellis to determine total width for fence hook placement (Image 1). Next, measure, mark and drill the fence holes for the hooks; use an electric drill to create the holes (Image 2). Then spray paint both sides of the trellis with matte white exterior paint (Image 3). Once dry, hang the painted trellis beside the pool (Image 4) and use S hooks to complete the look with towels and hats (Image 5).
![Make an outdoor trellis for pool accessories. Start by measuring the trellis to determine spacing for drilled holes in the fence. Then, paint the trellis white and let dry for several hours. Add hangers to the fence, place the trellis and enjoy.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_46-48_measure-hanger.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081507318.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Make an outdoor trellis for pool accessories. Start by measuring the trellis to determine spacing for drilled holes in the fence. Then, paint the trellis white and let dry for several hours. Add hangers to the fence, place the trellis and enjoy.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_47-48_drill-for-hanger.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081507854.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Make an outdoor trellis for pool accessories. Start by measuring the trellis to determine spacing for drilled holes in the fence. Then, paint the trellis white and let dry for several hours. Add hangers to the fence, place the trellis and enjoy.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_43-48_paint-hanger.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081506292.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Make an outdoor trellis for pool accessories. Start by measuring the trellis to determine spacing for drilled holes in the fence. Then, paint the trellis white and let dry for several hours. Add hangers to the fence, place the trellis and enjoy.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_48-48_add-hanger.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081508476.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![HGTV stylist Jill Tennant designed a backyard retreat with a stock tank from her local co-op, colorful cinderblock steps and a trellis for storage. Learn how to make your very own in just one weekend on HGTV.com. Flamingo pool float optional.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-7.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081510001.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Little Pink Steps
![Stock Tank Pool and Trellis Hanger Stock Tank Pool, Cinderblock Steps, Trellis with Towels on Hanger](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-6.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081510108.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Materials + Tools
- 6 cinderblocks
- 1-quart pink exterior paint
- roller
- paint tray
- caulk gun
- adhesive caulking
- 2-3 bags of pea gravel
- rake
Make stylish steps for easy pool access. First, use a roller to paint six cinderblocks a colorful pink hue (Image 1) using pink exterior paint. When dry, stack them together and secure with a layer of adhesive caulking from a caulk gun (Image 2). Next, pour 2-3 bags of pea gravel around the pool perimeter and spread out with a rake (Image 3).
![Paint standard cinderblocks a colorful pink using a roller. Then adhere them together with caulking to create a stylish, step entry point to the pool.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_37-48_paint-steps.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.924.85.suffix/1626081505007.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Paint standard cinderblocks a colorful pink using a roller. Then adhere them together with caulking to create a stylish, step entry point to the pool.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_38-48_caulk-steps.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081505218.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Pour loose gravel around the pool to create a deck. Level the gravel with a rake.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_42-48_add-gravel.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081507625.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
Add Decor + Enjoy!
Your pool is officially open! Blow up some pool floats (Image 1-2) and invite the neighbors over for an afternoon swim. Don't forget the sunscreen — we put ours in a poolside planter for easy reapplying (Image 3).
![HGTV stylist Jill Tennant designed this backyard pool with a stock tank from her local co-op. Learn how to make your very own in just one weekend on HGTV.com. Flamingo pool float optional.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-2.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081508179.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![HGTV stylist Jill Tennant designed this backyard pool with a stock tank from her local co-op. Learn how to make your very own in just one weekend on HGTV.com. Flamingo pool float optional.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081508684.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy
![Add sunscreen and sunglasses to a hanging planter beside the pool for easy access.](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2021/7/12/0/Original_Yasmin-Murphy_Stock-Tank-Pool_beauty-8.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1626081510301.jpeg)
Yasmin Murphy