TerraCottaClass

SAMPLE: Take a peek at Kris' awesome birdbath.

SUPPLIES:
clean & smooth terra cotta pots
white gesso
foam brushes
various Patio paints - if placing terra cotta in weather (available at
Michael’s)
or acrylic paints - if using terra cotta inside or in protected areas
black Patio paint pen
foam stamps (chunky type) small or large images

Spray sealer if filling with water for bird bath

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Plan what colors you will use for your pot and images.
2. Remove all stickers, dust and dirt scrubbing if necessary. Let pot dry completely.
3. Paint on a base coat of gesso. Let dry completely.
4. Apply a base coat of color of your choice.
5. If gluing pots together as in birdbath use strong epoxy and glue together at this time and let dry.
6. Using one color per foam brush applicator, apply paint to chunky stamps with sponge brush by dabbing paint on. Practice on paper to get the amount of paint your prefer. If you use less paint you will get a more worn look...more paint a crisp image...a lot of paint...a big blobbed image.
7. It is possible to blend the colors right on the stamp.
8. If you are using a small pot it is easier to place the pot in your lap on its side so it doesn't move. If this is not possible placing the pot/s against a sturdy object helps reduce movement.
9. Place bottom of stamp in desired place on pot and push stamp into position using both hands. If the pot is small and the image needs to curve, hold the stamp in place with one hand and press with the other.
10. Continue with any images and colors you desire.
11. To get an image to *pop* outline it with the patio paint pen.
12. Let the pot dry overnight.
13. Apply 2 or 3 coats of sealer or varnish. I prefer spray sealers.

Fun stamped terra cotta ideas:

1.Use small terra cotta saucers and create cute outdoor drink coasters, glue cork to bottom.
2.Create stamped containers by gluing wood balls, dice, beads (knobs) etc....to bottom of pot. Create the container lid by turning a saucer upside down and gluing *knob* on top.
3.Create luminaries by soaking the pot in water 24 hours and randomly drilling holes. Allow to dry. Paint and stamp as above. Place candle in pot.
4. Paint and Stamp larger terra cotta saucers and fill with bird seed. Hang with chain plant hangers. These are cute hanging in trees or sitting on fence posts,
5. Paint and stamp narrow terra cotta pots and use in kitchen for utensil holders.