Decorative Painting with Terracotta Pots
by Jill Black
Description: How to create beautifully painted terra cotta pots.
The word "terracotta" comes from Latin and means "baked
earth". The natural texture of terracotta provides the
perfect canvas for the budding artist to bring extra color
and style into the garden or home.
Not an artist? Never mind terracotta pots can look just
as stunning painted in a plain rich vibrant color with a
strong contrasting flower color to offset them. For example
- a bright blue pot planted with orange marigolds stands
out in any setting.
For a mottled effect try painting your pot in a plain color
then use a small sea sponge to dab on a contrasting color
after the base color has dried. For example a maroon coloured
pot with cream or pink effects.
For other interesting effects try using cheesecloth, rag,
crumpled paper, or bunched up plastic wrap dipped in paint
to provide interesting textures and designs.
Before painting your pots they must be properly prepared.
The first thing to do is to seal the inside of the pot
with sealer. This will prevent the paint on your finished
pot from lifting due to water seepage through the walls of
the pot.
Next apply a coat of white acrylic sealer to the outside of
the pot to act as a base. Paint the inside rim to where the
soil level will come for a more finished appearance.
Now it is time to get creative.
Pencil on your design or alternatively use a stencil to
trace the outline of your design. Paint on your colors
using acrylic paints (test pots are ideal and come in a
variety of colors).
Note: Stencils are available in a variety of motifs and
designs from art and crafts supply stores. When painting
with a stencil cut out use a short bristled brush and
with a dabbing motion apply your paint. If using several
colors have a separate brush for each color you use. Or
alternatively if you are only using one color use a small
foam roller to apply the color quickly and easily.
When dry, seal with one or two coats of matt finish
polyurethane unless you want a highly glazed look in
which case use a gloss polyurethane for the final coat.
To take your artwork to the next level I recommend reading
Priscilla Hauser's book "Decorative Painting Projects"
(Published by sterling, ISBN 1402706073") for some truly
stunning projects. Follow her step-by-step instructions
and you will be painting in no time at all like a true
artist.
When it comes to painting pots your imagination is your
only limitation. The possibilities are endless. Painted
pots make great gifts and are a fun way, especially for
children as they make inexpensive gifts that are useful
for plants or as a container for something else.
Copyright © J Black 2004. For more articles and ideas for
the home and garden visit Jill online today at -
http://www.netwrite-publish.com.
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