Today marks an important day in my life—my birthday! And to celebrate, I decided to spruce up my ghastly-orange terracotta flower pot with a little paint and some spring flowers. This project consisted of two of my favorite things, plants and painting, so it was the perfect activity.
I chose Marigolds, mostly for their deep golden color, but also because they can withstand the summer sunshine where I live. They’re also known for keeping insects away, which I wouldn’t mind now that the mosquitoes are back.
You’ll only need a few supplies for this project, most of which you may already have around your home:
- Terracotta pot and saucer
- White paint
- Black spray paint
- Paint brush or roller
- Painter’s tape
- Flowers
- Potting soil
.
Step 1 — Prep the Flower Pot
The design of your flower pot is completely up to you! I chose to paint the main pot white, with one horizontal stripe along the rim for a classy minimalist. Using painter’s tape, I covered over the rim of the flower pot. Be sure to secure the tape to the pot by pressing along the edge. This will keep the white paint from leaking below the tape.
Step 2 — Paint the Base Color
I picked a pure white paint color, mixed into a paint sample. You can also use acrylic crafting paint, which provide a greater variety of colors for more vibrant designs. (The mini roller and tray were a set, and I highly recommend them!) After the white paint dried, I used the tape again to mark off where I wanted the horizontal black stripe along the rim.
Step 3 — Spray Paint the Design
I first made sure that all the white paint on my flower pot was concealed with tape. Then, with even strokes and sprays, I covered the rim of the pot with black paint (I painted two layers). The spray paint I chose was glossy, but once it dried into the terracotta, it took on a matte finish. When the spray paint is fully dry, carefully remove the tape from around the pot.
Step 4 — Plant the Flowers
I filled my flower pot about half way with potting soil. Next, I spread the soil to the edges of the pot to create a hole in the center. Then I placed the marigolds into the soil, while adding additional soil around the stems. Be sure the base of the stem is slightly below the soil line (which I like to keep about 1/4 inch below the pot’s rim. Spritz the soil with water, then press around the stems gently, but firmly to help set the flowers in the soil. Set your pot in an area that receives indirect light and enjoy the view!
The best thing about this fun project is the practically endless designs you can create on these pots! Have a flower pot you’ve been meaning to paint? I’d love to see your designs!
XO,
Micah
I love this, plus it would be a great use of my random almost-used-up spray paints. 😉
P.S. Have you used Marigolds etc. for mosquitoes/insects before? I’m curious how effective they are – I’m thinking on the patio table? – since we have bad mosquitoes and gnats.