Decoupage and Upcycle Old Clay Pots in Less than 30 minutes!
So many of us are just longing for spring when we can get outside without freezing our batookies off and enjoy the wonderful weather. We just received a healthy dose of winter here in Missouri and I take that as an opportunity to get a jump on my spring garden crafts.
This one of my most popular garden craft projects from my archives. I love it for three reasons, it’s upcycling, it’s quick and it’s also about giving. What could be better? It’s so easy to decoupage and personally, I think decoupage is so under-rated. It’s the perfect craft technique to use when you want to give something a little extra personal touch! You can use decorative napkins, tissue paper, wrapping paper or even old dictionary paper to give your pot a decorative touch.
Watch the video on youtube
In addition to basic craft supplies you will need a basket, paper shreds, small shovel, seed packets of choice.
Instead of purchasing decoupage paper, I simply used a dictionary page along with some clip art that I found at graphicsfairy.com
Always apply a generous layer of decoupage medium to both surfaces you are going to adhere. One coat of decoupage medium to the front side of what you are applying the image to along with the back side of the image. I find it helpful when I decoupage to use my fingers to smooth out any bubbles. Apply an additional layer of decoupage medium once your project is finished to give it a shine and a good seal.
Download the Decoupaged Clay Pot instruction sheet here
Decoupage a clay pot with a vintage touch:
Here are the craft materials you will need:
- 4” clay pot – or size of choice
- Decorative paper of choice (neutral color and background or use newsprint)
- Collage image(s) (a bird motif was used in this project – courtesy of Graphicsfairy.com)
- Collage Pauge Glossy
- Black acrylic paint
- Sponge brush
- Sanding block
- Scissors
- Paint the rim of the clay pot with acrylic paint. Also paint the inside. Allow to dry.
- Cut out paper from pattern. (download pattern) Apply decoupage medium to paper and clay pot. Apply paper, smoothing edges. Allow to dry.
- Cut out decorative image and decoupage onto front of clay pot. Allow to dry.
- Sand paint in random areas around the rim.
I added a bag of potting soil and seed packets to the inside of my clay planter. Then I set the planter and into a basket filled with other garden goodies, like a hand shovel and gardening gloves. Add a tag and you’re all set to give it to a friend. It’s the perfect garden gift that keeps on giving!
I’m off to London on Friday to photograph my next book and I hope to be able to take some v-logs so you can join me on my journey.