How to Paint Faux Concrete Planters
by
Jenni Ingram
5 Materials
$35
1 Hour
Easy
A faux concrete finish is just what these boring planters needed to be versatile for all seasons and add texture to my mantel design... Here's how I did it using a saltwash technique.
When I decorate for seasons I tend to go neutral, at least at first – this spring mantle is not full of Easter decor or pastels, it’s a neutral farmhouse look that will take me easily into summer!
BEFORE -- I’ve had these plastic urns for a few years now, and always thought about painting them. I wanted the concrete look.
First I sanded the plastic pots a bit. I did this because they are shiny plastic, and while they aren’t going to get heavy use, I wanted the paint to stick. Nothing extensive, just a quick sanding around the pots.
I mixed my own favorite gray milk paint with course and fine sea salt. The consistency I got was about like peanut butter (the chunky kind). Read what kind of gray milk paint and other colors I used in my full blog post here.
I used a chip brush and just brushed it on the pots. A few places needed some more “Grit” so I sprinkled salt directly onto the wet paint and brushed it around a bit more. Don’t forget to paint the inside lip of the pots.
Once dry, I had this cool textured paint! To add a bit more interest, I took a piece of sponge dipped in a black glaze and wiped it over the entire pot. This settled in some places more than others and made this awesome finish!
Voila! A gorgeous textured concrete look!
I finished my mantel decor with some pussy willows and homemade wooden decor pieces. (Learn my tricks to how to make this arrangement in the painted planter in the blog link below this post! )
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Comments
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2 of 8 comments
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I really love this idea and will be trying it very soon. Thank you for sharing!!
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I'll definitely be doing this idea!! tfs
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
can you tell me about the 3 wood pieces to the right in front of the mirror. The are interesting.
I love this idea! I’m curious, though, why the salt doesn’t melt into the liquid paint, like It does when you’re baking/cooking?