DIY in a Day brings you step-by-step instructions for easy projects that will spruce up your space — within 24 hours (or less!).
Transform basic terra cotta pots into beautifully "aged" planters with the help of a simple technique. In this tutorial, we use plaster of paris, a material that gives the pots an almost antique look. (Like something you might find at a French flea market.) You can create any appearance that you'd like — just a little bit of aging or something deeper, depending on your design style.
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Things You'll Need
Step 1
To begin, add one cup of the plaster of paris to a plastic container. Add enough water to create a thick paint consistency.
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Step 2
Using a paint brush, add the plaster of paris to the terra cotta pots. This is when you can decide how much you want to "age" the pots. Apply plaster to the pot, leaving some of the terra cotta color.
Step 3
To remove any excess plaster, gently dab with a wet paper towel. This also adds a bit of texture. Allow to dry.
Step 4
Next, mix the white and brown paint together to create some light brown paint, and then gently apply it to pot in various spots. This will further "age" the pot, giving it a more realistic older look. You can even add a drop of green paint for a more dramatic, older look.
Step 5
Use a sanding block to gently remove a bit of plaster and paint, and to "age" it further. Finally, apply spray or sealer paint to seal the plaster.
Step 6
Your new gorgeous pots are now ready for your flowers, houseplants, and outdoor plants.
