How to Paint Terracotta Pots – Easy Tutorial

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Since spring has sprung, I wanted to plant a ton of flower seeds to brighten the yard, porches, and my home. That means it is time to paint terracotta pots for my flower seeds.

If you have been following my creative adventures, then you know I love a DIY project! I chose to use clay pots since they are inexpensive and super easy to paint. I am still enjoying the flower pot I painted and added a stencil and my spring flower pots. This new one will be enjoyed for years to come. 

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Flower Pot Painting 

My inspiration for my flower pot design was from a thumbprint counting booklet my daughter made in pre-school years ago. The cheery little bees would be perfect on my handpainted terracotta pots. 

After gathering just a few simple items, I was ready to transform my terracotta pot with paint. 

Supplies

• Chalk paint white
• Chalk paint yellow
• Plant pots (terracotta, clay)
• Marker (this is the one I used)
• Paintbrush or foam brush
• Polka dot ribbon
• Sealer Mod Podge or spray sealer 

You can see us painting the pot and some bees during a Facebook live (HERE). We will be crafting live on Facebook at least two times every week this summer, so please join us. If you would like a supply list and a reminder sent straight to your inbox, please fill out THIS form. I cannot wait to meet you. 

Gather supplies and Prepare your Pots for Painting

Since we used a new terracotta pot, we did not need to clean it before painting. However, if your clay pot is dusty or dirty, you can use a brush and water to clean it. Allow it to dry before painting completely. 

We used a paintbrush to paint the pot with two coats of paint. You can use a foam brush if you prefer. 

Painting the Design 

To paint the body of the bee, I used my thumbprint. With a little trial and error, I discovered the best way to add paint to my thumb. Using a paintbrush to apply the paint to my thumb gave the best results. I practiced making thumbprints and the bees on paper before attempting to paint them on my flower pot. 

 

After applying the bee body (thumbprint), I allowed the paint to dry before adding the other details. 

Using my favorite paint marker (this is the one I used), I added a smile to my bee.

After drawing the bee’s face, I added stripes and a tail on his body.  

Then I added a dotted line of the bee’s flight pattern. 

 

Once I had finished adding bees to the flower pot, I decided it needed a polka dot ribbon to finish it.

It turned out better than I imagined! 

Please join me (HERE) as we craft up some fun. You can look forward to receiving new inspiration every week. As well as special online crafting events, seasonal and holiday crafting too. 

See you soon,

Kippi

As seen on Between Naps on the Porch