Update your look: terracotta planters

The classic pot gets a New Year makeover

Terracotta planters offer a softer alternative to the clean lines and cool finishes of the modernist plant accessories that have been dominating social media of late.

If you fancy embracing the terracotta trend but are not ready to let go of your modernist sensibilities why not combine the two and give your old terracotta pots a new-year update with these creative DIY ideas.

Whimsical wording

From the whimsical to the philosophical, motivational phrases have become an increasingly popular design motif for homewares and accessories. So, why not personalise your planters with some meaningful words and stylish typography? We love this project from Nest of Posies DIY blog, which embraces the gold trend using foil lettering.

Copper leafing

Another big metallic trend that’s still going strong is the use of copper accents for homeware accessories. Its pinkish hue adds a touch of sparkle and warmth to cool, clean décor. The simple, geometric copper leaf design in this project from Woods of Bell Trees has a rustic, distressed look that is sympathetic with the organic finish of the terracotta.

Marbling

Marbling is a simple but beautifully effective technique that adds swirling colour to your pots – ensuring each design is completely unique. But terracotta can be a tricky material to work with so it’s important to use the right paint. DIY blogger Alana Jones-Mann has found acrylic to be the key. Experiment with different colour combinations, such as metallics and neons.

Prefer vintage chic to modern minimalism? Why not try your hand at the traditional French craft of decoupage? The art entails pasting paper cut-outs onto an object. Painterly florals are a popular motif as seen in this pretty découpage planter project from Place Of My Taste. The hydrangea design would make the perfect accessory for a vintage-inspired bedroom or garden room.

Dip-dyed

If découpage is a little fanciful for your tastes, keep the look clean and simple with a classic dip-dye technique. This neon dip-dyed project from Hellobee is a great idea for gifts and for adding a pop of colour to any room. For a more timeless look, opt for more muted tones or make a monochrome statement with a cluster of alternate black and white pots.  

Feeling inspired? Give it a go. Get creative and show off your creations with us on Instagram