Paint dot flower pots bring a bit of color into your home in these dark and dreary winter days and are a great way to dress up plain terracotta pots for plants. This to me is the long stretch between January and March/April, until spring pops up. It’s a great time to start planning for spring, or even creating a fun Mother’s Day gift. This post DIY painted terracotta flower pots reminiscent of mandala dotting covers a a fun and easy no art skills required project, what kind of paint to use on flower pots, and how to seal it after painting in this tutorial. FYI, This project is for plant non-food uses.
Supplies To Paint Terracotta Flower Pots
-Multipurpose Paint in various colors (we used white, yellow, red, green, blue and pink)
-Terracotta pot and saucer
-Sponge craft brush
-regular round craft paint brish
-Non-toxic outdoor varnish
-Paint palette or paper plate
Paint a Base Coat of Paint on the Terracotta Pots
Used white multipurpose craft paint with the sponge brush to coat the outside of the pot and saucer. If using a saucer don’t paint the inside of the saucer where it collects water, the paint will peel and bubble over time from water exposure. Let the top coat dry completely before moving onto the next step.
Pick Paint Colors for the Decorating Part
While you can use any colors, I picked bright and springy colors. Add a few drops at a time about the size of a dime. The paint can dry quickly and less will be wasted.
Make the Dotting Pattern
Decide on the pattern, You can wing it or pre-mark it with pencil marks. I decided to go for it! An easy trick is to use the end of a paint brush to make dots in an organized pattern, and alternated my colors. To apply, dip the end of the paint brush in the paint and lightly press it onto the pot surface. For smaller dots you can use dowel rods, toothpicks or even the head of a straight pin (Adults only!).
You can have fun creating different patterns on each pot and alternating colors. I decided on half circles on one, and a round/diamond pattern on other other pot. If you are looking for a more upscale adult version see how to make plastic pots look like ceramic pots.
Let the Paint Dry
After I finished all of my “paint-dotting” I let them dry. for 24-48 hours and cure according to directions. Multi-surface paint takes a little longer than regular craft paint to be water resistant. Some multi-surface paints you can also use on coffee mugs to create a unique gift. Make sure to check the directions on the bottle.
Seal the Paint on the DIY Painted Terracotta Pots
Once cured, use an outdoor, non-toxic varnish to seal them. If they are going to be inside only, Dishwasher safe Mod Podge can be used to seal the acrylic painted terracotta pots, but they might not be as durable outside.
Add the Plants
Once it’s dry it’s time to add plants!Any plant except edible plants can be added. This is fun where kids can start grass seed on the top to create something fast growing and green. They can also trim it ans give it a regular hair cut!
These painted pots add something nice and green in my window sill and a bit of color until spring arrives!
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