The Perfect Boho Thrifted Faux Terracotta Vases

Morgan Nelson
by Morgan Nelson
4 Materials
$20
1 Hour
Easy
UPGRADE YOUR OLD AND THRIFTED VASES TO AN EARTHY BOHO LOOK

Got old, dated, or ugly vases? I have a solution for you! These faux terracotta vases look so great in your space and allow you to reuse something you’re not using anymore!


If you’re interested in DIY Fall decor, be sure to check out this Fall DIY Wheat Wreath and these DIY Scrap Wood Lanterns.

SUPPLIES


  • Thrifted/outdated vases
  • Sample size paints in a range of terracotta + cream colors
  • Baking Soda
  • Paint Brushes


GATHER MATERIALS


Honestly, once you have everything together, there really is nothing to it! I have this 5lb bag of baking soda but you really DONT need anything this large for this project. The sample paints were pretty easy to grab at The Home Depot and the brushes were cheap throw away brushes from Ikea.

MIX


The ratio is up to you! If you do less baking soda, the paint will just be a little gritty. If you want a thick, clay look, you will have to add more. Mix thoroughly to make sure there aren’t any clumps of baking soda.

APPLY


Paint vases with the thick paint! Keep in mind that the paint will dry slightly darker. I applied multiple layers, one to get the vase covered, and 1-2 more to create texture.

Apply the paint in the direction that you desire to see streaks. They will be visible once the paint dries.
Also remember that, sometimes, the inside rim of the vase can be visible, so be sure to paint a bit into the opening.

IF I WERE TO DO IT AGAIN


If I were to do it again, I would’ve sprayed a self-etching primer or I would have tried to rough up the glass surface with sanding. I fear that the paint is barely hanging on to the glass and that it will chip. At least I’ve got leftover paint to touch it up.

Check out this texture!

FINISH


To finish it off, I applied a clear matte polyurethane. This is because of what I said above, I fear it’s going to chip. This is to help prevent that. Even if I had properly prepped the surface, I would have still applied the clear matte polyurethane.


Once the faux terracotta vases are sealed, group them in your home with some dried and bleached plants for the perfect boho look!

Morgan Nelson
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  1 question
  • Inetia Inetia on May 20, 2022

    Do you think clearifying the glass with 99% alcohol after washing, then coating with modpodge before painting might help the paint adhere?


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