How to Decoupage Flower Pots

Download Article
Download Article

Flower pots are a great way to display your favorite plants on your patio, balcony, and window sill. Instead of buying a fancy one, why not make your own using decoupage glue and pretty, patterned paper? With the right preparations, you can make it waterproof too! You can also use the pot to store craft supplies on your desk, such as pens and pencils.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Preparing the Pot

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-1.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can use any size of terra cotta pot for this. If you plan on putting a plant into your pot, it must have a drainage hole at the bottom. It would be a good idea to pick up a matching saucer for it as well. You won't be decoupaging the saucer, but you can paint the outside to match your pot.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-2.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Even if you bought your pot brand-new, it may still be covered in dust. This can prevent the paint and glue from sticking. Wipe the entire pot, inside and out, with a damp sponge, then set it out to dry.
    • If the pot has any rough edges, buff them away with some sandpaper. Be sure to wipe the pot down again when you are done. [1]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a9\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-3.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can use the spray-on kind or the brush-on kind. Let each coat dry before applying the next one. How long it takes for each coat to dry depends on the type of sealant you are using. If you plan on putting a plant into the pot, it would be best to use an oil-based sealant. If you'll be using the pot as a decoration or to hold craft supplies, you can use a water-based sealant. [2]
    • The sealant is important, especially if you'll be adding a plant. It will keep moisture from sinking into the pot and causing the paint/glue to bubble. [3]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-4.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You don't have to paint the pot at all if you don't want to, but it will give your design a nicer background. Once again, let each coat of paint dry before applying the next one. [4] Acrylic paint dries quickly, so you'll only have to wait 15 to 20 minutes between each coat. When you are done painting, let the pot dry completely.
    • You can paint the pot any color you want, but something that matches the background of your paper will work the best. [5]
    5. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Decoupaging the Pot

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-5.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Wrapping paper, scrapbooking paper, tissue paper, and napkins make great choices. Seed packets also work well. [6] If you can't find any paper that you like, cotton fabric is a great alternative. Choose something with shapes that are easy to cut out, such as birds or flowers.
    • You can use any design you want to decorate it, but something nature-themed would look the best on a flower pot.
    • How much paper you need depends on how big your pot is and how much of it you plan to cover up. You can cover your entire pot with paper, or you can add just a few designs on it. [7]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-6.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For example, if your paper has birds on it, cut the birds out, and leave the background alone. You can also carefully tear around the shapes instead. This will give you a more rustic touch. It will also make it easier to overlap the edges if you plan on covering the entire pot.
    • If you are using a seed packet, you could simply cut around the front image so that it's a square or rectangle. [8]
    • If you are tearing a napkin, outline your shapes with a clean, wet paintbrush first. This will make your tears more precise. [9]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-7.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The patch needs to be a little bigger than the first image you will be laying down. You can apply the glue using a paintbrush or a foam brush.
    • You can use any type of decoupage glue, such as Mod Podge. The finish does not matter because you will be sealing the pot later on.
    EXPERT TIP

    Claire Donovan-Blackwood

    Arts & Crafts Specialist
    Claire Donovan-Blackwood is an Arts & Crafts Specialist and CEO of Heart Handmade UK, a site dedicated to helping people live a happy, creative life. With over 13 years of experience, Claire uses art as a form of therapy and focuses on mindfulness in the making of art. She makes crafting easy and accessible for those she works with. Claire received her B.A. in Photography & Visual Imagery from The University of Huddersfield.
    Claire Donovan-Blackwood
    Arts & Crafts Specialist

    Make sure you use a glue that is not water-based. Otherwise, the glue will reactivate when you water the plant and become tacky again. Then, apply paper or fabric to the pot and smooth it out so that there are no bubbles. After it’s dry, finish the pot with a coat of varnish.

  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-8.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Flip your cut paper over and paint the back with a thin coat of decoupage glue. [10] You can skip this step if you are using thin paper, such as tissue paper or napkin. This is because the glue that's already on the paper will seep through it.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-9.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use your fingers or a clean foam brush to smooth the paper down. Start from the middle and work your way outwards towards the edges.
    • If you are using a napkin, you will need to peel away the blank, back layer first. [11]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/eb\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-10.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Paint the glue on in thin layers, starting from the center of the image. Extend the glue just past the image and onto the pot. The brush will help smooth down the edges, and seal them against the pot.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a7\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a7\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-11.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can glue down just one image, or several. You can even overlap images for a collaged effect. If you choose to overlap images, it might be a good idea to let the first layer dry. This will prevent things from getting too soggy.
    • You can cover the upper rim of the pot if you want to, but don't put anything inside the pot.
    • Leave the bottom of the pot blank.
    8. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Finishing the Pot

Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2e\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-12.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Take a close look at the top and bottom of your pot. If there are any rough, uneven edges leftover from the decoupage, file them down with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a nail file. [12]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/92\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-13.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Let each coat dry before applying the next one. Also, make sure that you extend the glue just past the bottom and top edges of your pot. This will help seal the designs in further. Wait for the pot to dry completely before moving on. [13]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-14.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once more, allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next one. A water-based sealant would be best here, as an oil-based one may add a yellowish tint to your pot. [14] For something more durable, use the type of varnish meant for boats. [15]
    • This will be your last coat, so use a finish that you like: matte, satin, or glossy.
    • You only have to do this if you will be putting soil into the pot. If you'll be using the pot as decoration, you don't need this extra coat.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-15.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Overnight is best, but it would be best to check the label on your bottle of sealant. Some types of sealers have a curing time as well, which can take a few days. If you use your pot before everything has finished drying or curing, the surface may turn tacky.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-16.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you picked up a saucer for your flower pot, you can paint it as well. Only paint the outside edges, not the inside or bottom. Even with a waterproof sealer, the saucer will pick up too much water. This may sauce the finish to warp.
    • Use colors and patterns that match your decoupaged pot.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-17.jpg\/aid8783727-v4-728px-Decoupage-Flower-Pots-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you plan on putting a plant into it, line the bottom with a coffee filter, a scrap of fabric, or a piece of window screening. This will help keep the dirt from falling through the hole at the bottom. You can also use the flower pot as a pencil holder on your desk, or as a piece of decoration.
    7. Advertisement


Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I use varnish instead of polyurethane sealant?
    T. Chinsen
    Top Answerer
    The basic difference between varnish and polyurethane is that a varnish is a thicker layer than polyurethane. Both work as a sealant to a surface. The key to a successful sealant application is to get the surface clean and dry. There are online comparisons to the specific differences if you have issues with the material content of the sealant.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • You must let each layer dry and cure completely. If you don't, the finish may turn out bubbly or tacky.
        Thanks


      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      • Terra cotta pot
      • Waterproof polyurethane sealer
      • Decoupage glue (ie: Mod Podge)
      • Paintbrush or foam brush
      • Scissors
      • Patterned paper or napkins


      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Wrap Flowers
      How to
      Make a Bouquet
      How to
      Create a Spilled Flower Pot
      How to
      Make a Lei
      How to
      Press Flowers
      How to
      Make a Boutonniere
      How to
      Make Artificial Flowers
      How to
      Arrange Flowers
      How to
      Make a Flower Wall
      How to
      Preserve Fall Leaves
      How to
      Make a Flower Press
      How to
      Dye Carnations
      How to
      Make a Rose Bouquet
      How to
      Arrange Long Stem Roses
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ http://www.patriciaspots.com/howtopaintapot.htm
      2. ↑ http://www.patriciaspots.com/howtopaintapot.htm
      3. ↑ http://www.patriciaspots.com/howtopaintapot.htm
      4. ↑ http://www.patriciaspots.com/howtopaintapot.htm
      5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJonfsXWf0
      6. ↑ http://www.familycorner.com/homegarden-crafts/decoupage-clay-flower-pot.html
      7. ↑ http://www.creativehomemaking.com/holidays/flower-pot.shtml
      8. ↑ http://www.familycorner.com/homegarden-crafts/decoupage-clay-flower-pot.html
      9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJonfsXWf0
      1. ↑ http://www.familycorner.com/homegarden-crafts/decoupage-clay-flower-pot.html
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJonfsXWf0
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJonfsXWf0
      4. ↑ http://www.creativehomemaking.com/holidays/flower-pot.shtml
      5. ↑ http://www.patriciaspots.com/howtopaintapot.htm
      6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrJonfsXWf0
      7. ↑ http://town-n-country-living.com/decoupaged-flower-pots-transform-grocery-plants.html

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 63,076 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Brihanna Colton

        Feb 1

        "I'm not doing shopping with school due to having carpet burns, so I've stayed and tried decoupage. This ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement