We tried the DIY terracotta spray paint hack

(Image credit: Future)

published 17 October 2021

Upcycling decor pieces we already own is a fun and cheap way to update our homes. We just tried the terracotta spray paint hack to give a black ceramic vase a more rustic and Mediterranean look.

Low key - not to mention very satisfying - DIY projects like this can make an area of our homes feel exciting again. This one is as easy as they get - and if you don't like it, you can paint over it.

spray painting a vase — Disclaimer: it dries a lot less orange

Terracotta spray paint hack

Like most people, I'm a sucker for terracotta. The warm tones remind me of being on holiday in Italy or repotting plants in a sunny garden.

I ordered some Rust-Oleum terracotta spray paint on Amazon for just £8.99 and followed the instructions on the spray bottle. Before I started, I made sure the vase was clean and placed it on a big plastic bag out in the garden.

I sprayed several thin layers of paint in a horizontal motion, giving it a few minutes to dry before turning it over. Tip number one: make sure you keep the bottle at a 30cm distance to avoid it from getting too thick and patchy.

Once the first layer had dried, I turned it over and sprayed the back, and the bottom. At first, it looked very orange, which wasn't the vibe I was going for.

But it dries a lot more like a classic terracotta plant pot - with a similar, slightly rough texture, too. I kept turning it, spraying it and letting it dry.

But some of the dried paint on the bag transferred onto the vase. So, tip number two: try to make sure it's not resting on paint while drying.

Overall, I'm really pleased with the result. The terracotta tone works so much better with my existing decor - rusty, fall tones are my go-to.

I also think I'll be more inclined to display flowers in it. Some fresh eucalyptus would look great tumbling out of it, or perhaps some dried flowers.

The spray paint I used can also be used on furniture - read up on how to spray paint furniture so you can move on to bigger items with confidence.

I'll be displaying my terracotta vase proudly in my living room - and when anyone asks where it's from, I'll smugly tell them I upcycled it. This terracotta spray paint hack as left me keen to try some IKEA hacks this weekend.

Definitely give this one a go, we can feel a terracotta paint obsession coming on.

Millie joined Real Homes in early 2021 as a homes news writer. When she isn't writing about trends, makeovers and houseplant care, she spends her free time making tweaks to her rented flat in North London. Her next project is a very basic armchair reupholstering job to help create a cosy reading nook in her living room. She loves browsing antique centres, tending to her small front garden, and is never without some fresh flowers at home.