Terracotta pots have the advantage of being strong, inexpensive and available in different sizes. However, they all look the same. A simple coat of paint is all it takes to transform your ordinary terracotta pot into an attractive container in which to show off your plants in their best light. Decorated pots will also add a touch of color to your home or garden. You just need to bring a little paint and a little bit of fantasy to give your terracotta pots a little personal touch. Take the time to discover many decorating tips and ideas to paint your pots beautifully and make them more durable.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: prime the pot
Step 1. Choose a suitable workspace
Since you must use spray paint cans, it is strongly recommended that you work in a well-ventilated, dust-free area. The outdoors is the perfect workspace. Remember to cover the surfaces of your workspace with newspapers or tarps to protect them.
- If you can't work outdoors, consider leaving a window open or using a fan to disperse the paint fumes. It is also important to take frequent breaks.
- If you are working outdoors, watch out for dust that can stick to the paint.
- Wear a face mask while painting.
Step 2. Wash the pot
It is not unusual to have price tags stuck on newly purchased jars or for the latter to be covered with a layer of dust. Clean the pot with lukewarm water and allow it to air dry, as the paint will adhere better to a surface that has been cleaned well. Dip the jars in a container of hot water and remove any dirt or grime with a stiff bristle brush or scratching sponge. If you have difficulty removing heavily adhered labels, soak the jar for an hour in hot water before continuing to scrub. After cleaning, allow the pot to air dry in a sunny place.
Step 3. Smooth the surface
Once the jar is clean and dry, smooth the surface with 220 grit sandpaper. Pay particular attention to rough areas and sharp edges. Don't worry if you can't get a perfectly smooth surface, as untreated, unpainted terracotta is rougher in nature than porcelain and will always keep a slightly rough texture. Focus on the irregularities and nicks that can spoil the paint finish.
Step 4. Wipe down the pot
To remove all traces of grime and grime, wipe the pot with a damp cloth and then allow it to air dry. Wait until the pot is completely dry before continuing.
Step 5. Waterproof the inside of the pot
It is important to make the pot waterproof to prevent moisture from escaping after the plant is placed inside. To improve the seal of the pot, spray a thin, even coat of clear acrylic varnish on the interior surface. Remember to apply the polish on the bottom as well as the sides and let dry before continuing. Since terracotta is porous in nature, it is not unusual for the first coat of glaze to be absorbed by the pot. You can apply a second coat of varnish after the first has dried. Do not hesitate to apply several coats if necessary to make the pot perfectly waterproof. The important thing is to respect the drying time between each application. Before using the polish, shake the spray can until you hear the clicking sound of the mixing ball.
- Choose a varnish with a satin, matte or gloss finish, as desired. The important thing is that it is also waterproof.
- To give a more sophisticated look to your pot, paint the inside a black color before applying the varnish.
Step 6. Apply a coat of primer
If you want to paint the pot in a solid color, you need to apply a primer coat first. Hold the spray can 15 to 20 cm from the surface of the pot and then spray a thin, even layer over the entire surface. You can apply a second coat as needed after the first coat is completely dry. Applying a primer coat will give you a more polished finish and will have the added benefit of preventing paint from being absorbed into the pot.
Step 7. Apply a matte finish varnish
If you want to paint patterns directly on the pot so that the natural color of the terracotta appears, it is best to use a non-gloss acrylic varnish that will highlight the natural matte texture of the pot. Hold the spray can 15 to 20 cm away from the jar. You can apply a second coat as needed after the first has completely dried. This will seal the surface and increase the tackiness of the paint.
This method is particularly recommended if you want to give your pot an aged appearance
Step 8. Let the primer dry
Most paint primers have a 15 minute dry time, but some take several hours. It is important to adhere to the drying time indicated for the chosen primer before proceeding.
Part 2 of 4: paint the pot a solid color
Step 1. Decorate the jar as you wish
There are a multitude of styles to decorate your pot. You could, for example, paint the entire jar in one solid color or use masking tape to paint only parts of it. Here are some decorating ideas to inspire you.
- If you just want to add a little color to your pot, paint only the edges. For a more colorful effect, you can paint the cup the same color.
- Decorate the jar, but leave the edges in their original color.
- Decorate half of the jar and keep the other half in its original color. You choose which half to paint.
- Decorate the pot with straight lines or chevrons in different colors.
Step 2. Mask off the areas that will not be painted
Stick masking tape over the parts you don't want painted to create designs with crisp lines. If you're used to freehand drawing or use a flat or foam brush, you can ditch the masking tape. However, masking tape is particularly useful if you are a novice or if you use aerosol paints. Read on to learn how to properly use masking tape.
- To paint only the edges, tape a strip of masking tape to the parts that will not be painted. If you are using spray paint, protect the bottom of the jar with a plastic bag and use masking tape to secure it to the jar. This will give you a nice straight line and the bag will protect the parts of the pot that you don't want to paint.
- To paint the entire jar while leaving the edges in their original color, cover any parts that will not be painted with masking tape.
- To paint only one half of the pot, cover the part that will not be painted with masking tape.
- Position strips of masking tape to create stripes or chevrons. The areas covered with masking tape will keep the original terracotta color after you finish painting your pot.
Step 3. Choose the type of paint to apply
Choosing the type of paint will determine the type of varnish you should use next. Paints come in a variety of finishes and you may not need to apply a final coat of varnish. Read on to find some tips on what type of finish to choose.
- Metallic, pearlescent or glitter finish paints will give your pot a shiny appearance. It will be necessary to apply a glossy finishing varnish to sustainably maintain their shine and luster.
- Chalkboard paints are an original way to decorate your jar. The application of a varnish is to be avoided at all costs, because it will then be impossible for you to write on it with chalk.
- Decorations with solid colors can be made with matte, satin or gloss finish paints depending on the desired final look.
- Textured spray paints are also available. You can give your pot a rustic look or make it look like stone.
Step 4. Prepare the paint
If using acrylic paint, pour a small amount into a cup. To minimize brush marks, dilute the paint with a little water until you get a creamy texture. If you are using spray paints, shake the canister for a few minutes, until you hear the clicking sound of the mixing ball inside.
You can use craft paint or any exterior paint. In this case, you need to apply a final coat of varnish to seal the pot
Step 5. Apply the first coat
You can apply acrylic paint using a flat paintbrush or a foam brush. If you are using spray paint, hold the canister about six to eight inches from the jar. Make sure the first coat has dried completely before applying a second coat. The drying time required will depend on the type of paint chosen, varying from 15 minutes to several hours. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time.
Step 6. Apply multiple coats as needed
After the first coat is completely dry, you can apply more coats. Be sure to respect the recommended drying time between the application of each coat.
You will realize when it is no longer necessary to continue
Step 7. Paint the inside of the pot
You can paint the inside of the pot to give it a better finish. Apply a coat of paint to the top of the pot in a strip of about 2.5 cm. It is not necessary to paint the inside of the entire pot, because it is enough to decorate the parts that will remain visible after putting a plant in it.
Part 3 of 4: add patterns and labels
Step 1. Add patterns
To embellish your pot even more, you can draw patterns on the already painted surface. Read on to discover some ideas to make your pot even more attractive.
Step 2. Create patterns with masking tape
You can use masking tape on the parts you don't want painted to create a wide variety of patterns in the colors you want. If you want to create stripes or chevron lines, glue strips of masking tape depending on the design you want to paint. Repaint the pot a different color then let it air dry. Wait until the paint has dried before removing the masking tape.
- You can create a pattern of small polka dots by gluing stickers in the shape of a circle. Place the stickers in the desired pattern and then apply a coat of paint. Wait until the paint has dried before removing the stickers.
- Use a fine brush to touch up and correct imperfections.
Step 3. Decorate the jar with stencils
Get some adhesive stencils and stick them to the surface of the pot. If you can't find adhesive stencils, you can stick the stencils with masking tape. Paint over the stencil with spray paint or acrylic paint. You can choose any color depending on the effect you want to achieve, but keep in mind that contrasting colors work best. Read on for some ideas to inspire you.
- For pots painted black or any other dark color, create your designs with a light-colored paint, such as gold or white paint.
- For jars painted white or any other light color, use black or gold paint to create your design.
- For a pot painted in neon green, be bold and apply a bright pink or orange paint to create your pattern.
- Create patterns with different objects. You can use a placemat or any other everyday item to create your stencil designs. Set the jar on its side and cover it with the placemat. Apply a coat of paint, then peel off the placemat gently. Be careful not to let the placemat drag on the surface to avoid smudging.
Step 4. Draw freehand patterns
If you are artistic or don't want to use stencils, you can make pretty freehand drawings with finesse using oil paint pens or a fine brush.
Step 5. Give your pot a rustic charm
You can use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface of the pot and give it a weathered and aged look. Depending on the desired end effect, sand the surface using one-way or back-and-forth movements. Start with movements from left to right and then up and down. You can even sand in circles. Continue sanding the painted surface until the original terracotta color begins to show through the paint.
Step 6. Label your jar
If you used chalkboard paint, you can write down the type of plant that is in the pot. If the surface is large enough, you can even jot down instructions for caring for and watering the plant. Apply chalkboard paint over a solid color or onto a raw terra cotta pot sealed with a matte finish acrylic varnish. Read on to find out how to label your jars.
- Start by applying a coat of varnish to seal the jar. Refer to the following method for how to successfully finish and seal the pot.
- Mask off the areas you don't want to paint. You can use an adhesive stencil, masking tape laid in geometric shapes, or any design you like. Then apply a thin coat of chalkboard paint with a flat brush, foam brush, or use spray paint.
- Apply a thin coat of chalkboard paint with a flat brush, foam brush, or use spray paint.
- Wait 8 hours between each application of a new coat.
- After applying the last coat of paint, let dry 2-3 days.
- Rub the surface with white chalk to prime, then wipe with a damp cloth. Your mini chalkboard is now ready for use.
Part 4 of 4: successfully finishing and sealing
Step 1. Prepare your workspace
As long as you use aerosol products, choose a well ventilated area or work outdoors. If you do not have access to a ventilated area, leave a window open and take frequent breaks so as not to be dizzy by the fumes. You can also use a fan to disperse paint and varnish smells. It is important to clean your workspace and remove any traces of dust or roughness, especially if you are going to use a glossy finish varnish.
Step 2. Position the pot
Place the jar upside down on a raised stand, such as a glass or can. Make sure that the chosen stand is thin enough to fit into the pot and that the pot is no longer in contact with the table surface. Once the pot is well positioned, everything should look like a lamp or a large mushroom. This installation will allow you to paint all surfaces of the pot, including the bottom.
Step 3. Achieve a glossy finish
To give your pot more shine or give it a metallic, shimmering or pearly appearance, choose a glossy finish varnish. If you want to achieve an enamel finish, apply several coats of varnish.
If you created your design using masking tape, wait until the polish is dry before removing it
Step 4. Create a natural finish
Matte finish varnishes will give you a more natural final look that comes close to the original texture of terracotta. This is a good option if you have done freehand drawings on an untreated surface.
Step 5. Create a neutral and subtle finish
If you want a less pronounced glossy appearance that reflects less light than a glossy finish, choose a satin finish varnish.
Step 6. Avoid sealing chalkboard paints
If you used chalkboard paint, let dry for 3 days. Prime the surface with chalk and wipe with a damp cloth. Embellish your pot with small designs or write the name of the herb or plant in the pot.
Step 7. Apply clear acrylic varnish
Seal your design by spraying painted surfaces with clear acrylic varnish. This will not only protect your decoration from scratches, but will also make them more durable and easier to clean. Hold the spray can about six to eight inches from the surface and spray a thin, even layer. Apply a second coat, if necessary, after the first coat dries. Remember to treat the bottom of the pot and to respect the drying time between applications.
Step 8. Remove the pot
Remove the pot from the holder and sand the surface to remove paint drips. Use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface until the imperfections disappear. Proceed with care to avoid spoiling the fruits of your creative efforts.
Step 9. Paint the edges
Once the jar has been sanded, wipe off any roughness with a damp cloth and apply a thin layer of varnish. Remember to treat the inside and the top of the edges. Wait until the varnish is dry before applying a new coat.
Step 10. Let dry
It is important to make sure that the paint is completely dry before placing a plant in the pot, this will prevent blisters, cracks or scales from appearing on the painted surface due to the moisture in the container. Earth.
Advice
- Repaint old terracotta pots. Soak the jar in lukewarm water for an hour before cleaning or sanding it. If the pot is very dirty, use a little bleach. Rinse well and wait until the pot is completely dry before painting it.
- Apply thin layers. When priming, painting or sealing the jar, avoid applying too thick coats to minimize the chance of paint dripping. Too thick a coat also takes longer to dry and is more difficult to apply evenly.
Warnings
- Work in a well ventilated area, especially if you are using spray paints and varnishes.
- It is important not to block the drain hole at the bottom of the pot in order to allow good soil drainage, which is essential for the survival of your plant.