The Dirt: painted clay pots

I’m sure you’ve seen similar projects to these painted clay pots. They’re referred to as; painted pots, chippy paint, distressed planters, weathered terra cotta etc.

Photo courtesy of The Handmade Home

This was the inspiration photo. When I Googled “painted pots” this was one of the images that came up in the search and I knew this was how I wanted my pots to look.

I researched several ways to achieve the distressed look and decided to use the following method:

1. Start with clean, dry terra cotta pots.

2. Rub a candle all over the pots (the wax helps chip the paint)

3. Paint your pots in a desired color. I used various combinations of Martha Stewart paints in Scallion (green), Surf (blue) and Wedding Cake (white).

4. Once the paint is dry rub off some of the paint. This is where I had trouble. My paint didn’t want to come off so I used a little sand paper to scratch up the paint.

The two larger pots are now home to some new succulent chicks.

The two smaller pots are too tiny for plants so I made them into candle holders.

I melted a few citronella candles and poured the wax into the pots reusing the wicks. You can melt old candles on top of the stove in a throw away pot. However, I found the easiest way is to use an old tin can. Place your candles in the clean can and put in the oven at around 250 degrees. Pour your wax and throw away the can.

Note: I’m not a candle maker and have no idea what I’m doing… Use caution when melting candles on your stove or in your oven.

Love my new turquoise, aqua, chippy, painted, distressed, weathered terra cotta clay pots.

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