Learn how to paint terra-cotta pots so you could turn plain clay pots into colorful accents for your home.
Nowgrab your paintbrushand get started!
Colors will be bright and saturated, especially if you use primer and multiple coats of paint.
Credit: Carson Downing
To clean painted clay pots, gently wipe them down with a damp cloth as needed.
Wipe it down with a damp microfiber cloth and let it dry completely.
Grab a rubber band and stretch it around the pot at an angle.
If you used multiple rubber bands, use multiplepaint colorsin the primed areas they section off.
Do the same with the saucer, covering the primed area with an even coat of paint.
You may need two or three coats of paint to achieve a bright, saturated color.
If you used multiple rubber bands and have more of a zigzag design, simply work in sections.
Let them both dry completely.
The shellac creates a smooth finish and adds a protective layer to seal the paint.
Cut the rubber band and slowly peel the masking tape off to remove the foil.
Work slowly so as not to damage any of the painted surface.
Place the paintedclay potinside the saucer and it’s ready to be used around your home.
Oil paints can be used, but they take months to dry completely when painted on terra-cotta.
There are self-sealing acrylic paints available, so if you use those, there’s no need to seal.
Never paint a terra-cotta pot with a plant still in it.
These pots are so useful because they can last for decades with the proper care.
However, if they’re left out in the freezing weather, they could end up cracking.
Then, use a light coat of gray and white paint to give the pot a distressed look.
