I’m no gardener. I do, however, know enough people – and have sat through enough of their conversations – who are gardeners to state with certainty that this little gadget is brilliant. Designer Egant has created a doodad aptly named “Sprout” that allows for the repurposing of plastic milk jugs into useful watering cans.

Sprout fits into the opening of a standard plastic milk jug and is a funnel with a plastic ball at the narrow end. When the jug is sitting upright, the ball falls to the bottom of the funnel allowing liquid to flow into the container (see the video and pictures for more details). Tip the jug (as if to pour) and the ball moves into the top of the funnel creating a block and diverting the liquid into one of

When the jug is sitting upright, the ball falls to the bottom of the funnel allowing liquid to flow into the container (see the video and pictures for more details). Tip the jug (as if to pour) and the ball moves into the top of the funnel creating a block and diverting the liquid into one of two passages – a straight flow or a watering-can-like flow. Small marks on the top of the plastic piece indicate which flow type has been selected and changing flow is as easy as turning Sprout half a turn clockwise (or counter clockwise – we don’t discriminate here).

 

Though Sprout is decidedly garden oriented, the uses for this little device are endless. I foresee the complete revolution of frat-boy parties where the bartender can fill multiple cups at the same time using Sprout’s watering can flow. Although perhaps Egant should rename and remarket this gizmo as something more drinker friendly. Something like “Lush” or “Sed8r” or “Imminent Life-threatening Alcohol Poisoning” (ILAP) would be appropriate (although the latter may be too many syllables for many and might put a damper on festivities). “Hey! Where’s the Imminent Life-threatening Alcohol Poisoning?” (Don’t try this at home, kids!)

Regardless of what it will be used for, Sprout is an elegant and ingenious creation that makes it easier than ever to reuse and recycle.

Purchase at Shapeways.com

While you’re there, be sure to check out some of Egant’s other cool creations.