Update your aged pots with this easy DIY terra cotta pot whitewash.
Do you have an old terra cotta pot that’s looking a bit dreary and dull? With a few easy steps, you can whitewash the entire surface and give it a fresh and modern look! Whitewashing is a budget-friendly way to give your terra cotta or clay pots a pop of brightness. It's a great way to provide visual appeal in your garden or on your patio.
In this easy tutorial, you’ll learn what materials you need, the right technique for whitewashing and how to style it after its completed. So, if you want to make your outdoor space look more chic and modern, try out how to whitewash a terra cotta pot in 3 easy steps.
Video Tutorial Included
Terra cotta pots are very versatile and can be used for a number of home decorations, indoor and outdoor. However, if you love that antique look and want to incorporate terra cotta pots into more of a farmhouse style, then here is a tutorial for you! Watch my video below to learn how to easily white wash a terra cotta pot.
Supplies for Terra Cotta Pot Whitewash
- Terra cotta pots - You can find these at places like Amazon, a dollar store, Walmart, a garden center, Home Depot or craft store
- Milk paint
- Water
- Bowl and spatula for mixing
- Paint brush
- 220 grit sandpaper or higher
How to Whitewash a Terra Cotta Pot
Mix Up Paint
First step, acquire terra cotta pots. These can be new terra cotta pots or old pots, just make sure they are clean. Mix up your milk paint in a container using 1 part milk paint to 2 parts tap water. This whitewash mixture is different from traditional milk paint ratios because we want it more watered down to achieve the aged look instead of equal parts water and paint.
Start by mixing 1 teaspoon of milk paint, then add 2 teaspoon water and mix with a small spatula. Make sure that most of the lumps are out so you don't end up with chunks on your flower pot.
Add Paint
The next step for these DIY terra cotta pots is to add paint. Using a paint brush, lightly add a coat of white paint using small brush strokes. Since terra cotta is a porous texture, the milk paint will sink deep into the outside of the pot. You can also paint the inside of the pot as well.
The easiest way to get a good coat is by applying lightly. You can always add a little bit of paint later on if you want the white to be brighter. Allow the entire pot to dry.
Sand Your Pot
Take 220 grit sandpaper or higher and lightly sand the pot. Scratch lines should not be visible on the work surface. Add another coat of milk paint if you want the exterior to be brighter and repeat the sanding process, otherwise you can leave as is. Make sure that you don't have any prominent white spots on the exterior.
The finished product does not have to be perfect and will look more authentic if there are imperfections. This easy project is the best way to achieve aged terracotta pots.
Ways to Decorate With Your Terra Cotta Pot
Use Indoors
- Style with faux plants
- Use as part of a table centerpiece
- Fill with small decor or garland
- Use on a tiered tray or fireplace mantel
Outdoor Use
- Use for real plants on your front porch
- Style with outdoor holiday decor
And there you have the perfect pot in 3 simple steps. It's an easy way to create a terra cotta pot whitewash to achieve an antique look. These are certainly fun to use in your home decor or as plant pots for outdoors. Wanting to change up the look of your old or new pots? Try out this DIY paint look for instant gratification!
Happy Decorating!
Brooke
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