So, you would like to try your hand at painting your own flower pots? Well, here are a few tips to help you along the way. No, it's not quick and easy. But, if you follow these instructions, your flower pot will last a long time. Here are the steps I recommend, (in sequence), to paint a flower pot. Use our Adobe printer friendly version to print this page for reference while you work.
HOW to PAINT & DECORATE a TERRA COTTA FLOWER POT
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is essential that you seal the INSIDE of the flower pot with polyurethane or some other waterproof sealant. If you don't, (if used for a live plant), when you water the plant, water will come through the terra cotta from the inside out and the outside painted surface will bubble and peel.
Sand away any rough spots or loose clay particles on the rim, bottom edge, and outside of the pot.
For standard flower pots, that will be used for planting, seal the INSIDE with oil or water based polyurethane-2-3 coats-let dry. Either of these will work but oil based polyurethane will last longer.
For decorative pots that will not be used for plants, seal the INSIDE with a water-based polyurethane or craft acrylic sealant. I suggest this because oil based products are flammable and the clean-up is easier with water based products.
For candle pots you should glaze and fire the inside of your pot. This is the only way to prevent the candle flame from burning the terra cotta. If you really want to make a candle pot, try locating a paint-it-yourself pottery studio and ask if they will glaze and fire the inside of your pot(s).
If you purchase Plaid Decorator Blocks, (available in limited quantities-try a Google search), to decorate your pot, they come with a pattern suggestion sheet and how-to instructions. You can also buy more than one set of blocks and mix patterns and shapes. Plaid does offer their products for sale at their web site. See below for specific pattern suggestions.
To decoupage your flower pot, pick any wrapping paper, wall paper, greeting card, or fabric, etc., that you like and make a color copy of it. PLEASE NOTE: Ink Jet printed images will smear. To decoupage your design onto the flower pot, carefully cut-out the shapes you want to use and adhere them to the pot with Mod Podge, (also by Plaid), available at craft stores.
When you're finished decorating/painting your flower pot, let it dry thoroughly, overnight is best. Then seal the outside with a water based polyurethane 2-3 coats. There are several of these on the market, available at craft, hardware and paint stores. Check to see if the product you select is OK to use over a painted surface. I stress water based polyurethane because oil based products have a yellow tint and will likely discolor your design. Mod Podge is a good sealant as well as an adhesive. (It does leave a slightly tacky feeling to the touch).
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CARE TIPS
Protect your flower pot from the elements
If it's cold where you live, store your flower pot in a warm, dry place during the winter months.
If you use your pot for a living plant, after watering your plant, DO NOT allow the pot to stand in water. If you notice water sitting in the saucer after watering, pour it out. Remember, painted surfaces do not stand-up to extensive exposure to water.
Clean your pot, if necessary, with a soft damp cloth. No scrubby pads or abrasive cleaners. They will scratch the finish.
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STILL NEED MORE INFORMATION? If you would like ideas, or painting patterns, here are few more publications that I have used. Leisure Arts - Patio Pots - #1741
Plaid - Helen's Pots & Mailboxes - Fun to Paint #9232
Design Originals - Garden Angels & Mice #3119
Design Originals - Painted Pots - #2361
Design Originals - Garden Guardians - #3170
Design Originals - Garden Delights - #3120
Plaid - Block Printing for Outdoor Living - Decorator Blocks #9197 |