Looking for advice on the best paint for painting terracotta pots? Search no more, let me show you how to paint clay pots in just one layer easily. You’d never guess how easy it is to transform plain terracotta pots into things of beauty.
I wanted to update my spring decor this year and decided that I wanted some cheerful spring colors in my home.
Just adding some pretty spring flowers like tulips and spring bulbs just wasn’t enough, I needed a bigger color fix.
That’s why I took an hour and some paint in pretty colors and gave a whole set of terracotta pots a spring makeover.
I am so pleased with how this little spring craft project turned out.
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I used Fusion Mineral Paint for this project. I have used this matte paint in several projects before, so I knew it would probably work very well for this project too.
I used grey Fusion Mineral paint to give ceramic Easter bunnies a concrete look, I also used it to paint an old army trunk, and to paint a pine dining table.
DIY Painted Terracotta Pots (what paint to use)
I wanted lots of colors that would look good together and I didn’t want to spent too much time figuring out which colors to use. After all spring weather was beckoning me outside.
Luckily, Fusion Mineral Paints comes in different color lines that all have a cohesive look and work well together. Lucky number two is that you can buy small tester pots that are just enough to paint one clay pot.
I choose the Fusion Tones for Tots line. And those colors are just gorgeous! From muted greys to bright yellow and lots of pastels in between.
More Paint Reviews
An Honest (and not so positive) Review of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
My Experience Using Mustard Seed Milk Paint
How to Paint Terracotta Pots
Materials for Painting Clay Pots
- Fusion Mineral Paint in your colors of choice
- Foam brush (both work very well).
That’s it. No need for a base coat, any primers or a sealer. Fusion paint sticks to anything and has the best durability. It is fit for painting front doors and various outdoor projects. It is also very good for painting anything inside because of the very low VOC.
Steps for Hand Painting Flower Pots
I used different pots and planters for this project. I had some previously painted terracotta pots with numbers that were looking stale and hardly fresh and could do with a new round in the spotlight. I added some unfinished terracotta pots to the mix, and then found this very bright yellow enamel container in a corner.
Let’s see how Fusion paint deals with all those different materials.
Well it dealt with it like a charm. It covered the old paint, the raw terracotta and even the slick enamel like a charm. This just proves that if you choose the right kind of paint, painting terra cotta pots becomes an easy DIY.
These are the steps to take when hand painting flower pots.
Step 1. Clean your pots
Make sure that you remove all the dust, plant debris, and any dirt on your containers. Give them a good wash with soapy water and let them dry fully.
Step 2. Prepare your paint
Make sure you mix and stir your paint very well. If the paint is very thin add a thinner. Fusion Paint can be thinned with water (but that is hardly ever necessary)
Step 3. Paint your clay flower pots
Apply a thin even layer on the outside of the pot. Also paint the top part of the inside so the raw terracotta doesn’t show when you are planting your flowers. Let dry fully.
Apply a second layer to give an extra durable finish.
Step 4. Finish and seal your painted terracotta pots
I didn’t apply any seal to my pots. Fusion Mineral Paint doesn’t need it and I liked the matte look. If you have used other paints or you want a glossy finish then use a finish like a spray sealer or a waterproof sealant.
Painting all these pots was a super easy project. The first coat of paint went on like a charm. It gave great cover, but a second coat made it all just that much better. It went on smooth and quick. Most time was used to rinse out my brush after every change of color.
More lovely ideas for your Easter & Spring decorating
17 Easy Spring Decorating Ideas
How to Decorate for Spring on a Budget
After the pots were painted the fun times began for real. Picking out some spring flowers in colors that complimented my newly painted pots. I love how this turned out. Just the right amount of color in my white home to remind me that spring is here and color will return.
Spring flowers in newly painted pots in gorgeous colors that match each other so naturally and so beautifully. I love this project. It brightens my home and my mood!
What’ye think? Looks like spring to you?
Gwen says
Ahh these do look so cheerful!!! I’m so glad that you added pansies/ violas to your little painted pots. This made an impact for spring!!
That’s a good idea. I’ve heard of fushion paint but I haven’t tried it. Glad to know it works so well. Good luck with your night stands. They will look gorgeous!!
Marilyn Holeman says
Lovely! Pansies are one of my favorite plants because they look so cheerful–AND they can take snow. And I love the fragrance of the grape hyacinths. Enjoy your spring!