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29+ Fun Painted Flower Pot Designs (No Green Thumb Needed)

Painting terracotta pots is probably one of the cheapest ways to update your patio this summer. No need to buy expensive decorative pots when you can DIY! Gain inspiration for your next flower pot design.

17 painted flower pot ideas with different images of painted flower pots.

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Terracotta, Terra-cotta or Terra Cotta?

By the way, I never know if it is terracotta, terra-cotta, or terra cotta when discussing pots. You can see Wikipedia also says it can be spelled in different ways, too.

Whenever I seem to be looking for the right answer, I will get a few different responses and spellings. However, you all know I am referring to those red clay pots that are a DIY craft person’s dream. Not only are plain terracotta pots cheap, but there are so many fun ways to makeover old pots.

2 medium terracotta pots.

How To Paint Terracotta Pots

You can use spray paint, add acrylic craft paint or use regular or metallic paint markers to help decorate your plant pots. The sky is the limit. You will be surprised how fast acrylic paint will dry.

Type Of Paint Not To Use

Just make sure you do not use tempera paint or watercolor paint as it will flake off or not stick well. Tempera paint is meant to be washable and mainly for kid crafts. If you are planning on using outside see the information below.

Can I paint plastic flower pots?

Yes, a spray paint that is meant for plastics and has a primer in it will probably be your best bet for your base coat. We love that you can makeover plastic pots and you don’t have to worry about them breaking.

How to paint flower pots for the outdoors?

If you really want your terracotta pots to last, I recommend using a shellac spray after painting or spraying with an outdoor waterproof sealant first. This will help protect your pot from water damage. You can buy the sealer on Amazon or brush it on with a different sealer from Home Depot.

Just note that it is a personal preference if you seal the pot beforehand. Sealing your clay pot will affect its breathability and you may risk overwatering your plant as your pot will retain moisture. However, if you don’t seal your painted pot, then your paint may not last as long.

We did not do this with our hydro-dipped marbled pots. While they have held up pretty well, I regret not sealing them first.

Before You Begin Painting

No, matter what design idea you are trying, starting with a clean dry terracotta pot will only help your final project. You want to remove sticker residue, grime, or dust before you start painting.

29+ Design Ideas For Painting Pots

Painted Flower Pot Ideas

No one wants to pay for designer flower pots and planters! These DIY flower pot painting ideas will help you decorate your outdoor space the way you want.

FAQS

Should you paint the inside of the pot?

We recommend only painting the part of the pot that you will see. No need to paint the entire pot.

How to prep your flower pots before painting?

Due to the porous surface of the pot, you don’t need to do too much to prep. If putting outside, consider using a clay pot sealer. Otherwise, make sure to wipe the surface with a damp cloth to ensure it is free of dust and grime.

Why would you not want to seal a clay pot before painting?

Sealing your clay pot will affect its breathability and you may risk overwatering your plant as your pot will retain moisture. However, if you don’t seal your painted pot, then your paint may not last as long.

How to protect your finished pots?

Depending if your painted terra cotta pots will be outside you can use a variety of materials like spray shellac or outdoor Mod Podge to help protect the outside of the pot.

How do you make sure that your paint pots last?

Add a waterproof sealer before painting and a protective clear coat afterward. Bring them inside the garage during the winter months. You also want to make sure that you bring pots in during cold weather. If water is left in them, they will crack and all of your hard work will be ruined.

More Outdoor Projects

Follow us on Pinterest, Youtube or Facebook for more DIY inspiration!

Now we think you should have enough ideas for painting flower pots and it is time to start creating!

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MICHELE HOOVER

Sunday 16th of April 2023

I like your ideas

Erin

Monday 17th of April 2023

Thanks for Michelle! I hope you have fun with your painted pot project.

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