In working through some ideas for our new outdoor space I knew I needed to update some of our terracotta pots. Some are new, some are really old & worn (which I love) so when I saw the image below (found on Gardenista) I knew I could create a cohesive look with all of our random pots.

To achieve this look all you need are a few items:
Terracotta Pots
Gold or Silver Leaf
Size (the glue to adhere the Metallic Leaf)
Spray Sealer for Metallic Leaf
All of the leafing items are all in the same section of the craft store & easy to find. Normally I wold say simply follow the instructions however you will be instantly frustrated as I was. The terracotta pots are so porous they absorb the size immediately completely undermining the instructions to wait 45 minutes for the size to become tacky. It will be dry almost immediately after brushing.
So to solve this issue, I would brush a leaf length of glue at a time & immediately adhere the leaf. Simply continue around the entire edge. Until you are complete. Just try not to brush the glue over the existing leaf as it will dull the shine.
(I would have taken step by step photos, but since there was no time to waste I had to get that leafing on that pot!)
I kept mine really haphazard fully anticipating some of it to wear off in the elements. I think that will completely add to the unexpected beauty of these, well, beauties.
After they were all gilded, I simply coated them in some of the spray sealer. Wanting to retain some of the natural patina on the worn pots, I avoided spraying the bottoms as the sealer will "clean" up the look.
I can't wait to get some plants in these!! All we need is some WARM weather. I am not a cold weather gal. Just sayin.
xo-


love these!
ReplyDeleteI love it! My favorite thing in decorating is the juxtaposition of rustic with glam... you've pulled it off beautifully here. I'm pinning this too! Little Bit from www.DecorateWithaLittleBit.com
ReplyDeleteGold leaf anything makes me melt! Great project, they're gorgeous. Oh, for your future gilding use - try Elmer's adhesive spray. It's better and easier (and cheaper!) to use than Size.
ReplyDeleteLove the unexpected hit of gold here. Really pretty. Also like your new header, nice and clean! Loved the old one too but this looks great :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great look! I can just see them full of bright geraniums!
ReplyDeleteOh these would be divine with boxwoods or moss balls.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see how you style them.
Amelia
Love this! Going to try this for sure! #goldobsessed
ReplyDeleteVery cool. I love the look of gold leaf, but for some reason, I have been scared to try it!
ReplyDeleteOh I love these. Rustic AND glam. They are going to look great with some green in them.
ReplyDeleteNow I know what to do with all my mis matched terracotta pots! Come on summer!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I love anything gold leafed. You have so many great project ideas!
ReplyDeleteThese are lovely! I adore the aged/worn look. It is a project that I will have to try.
ReplyDeleteGinger
http://www.literallyinspired.com
These are just fabulous!! Can't wait to see how you set them up in your outdoor space :)
ReplyDeletevery cute!
ReplyDeleteOh dear... now I'm really craving spring! I'm not a fan of the cold weather either! Your pots are fabulous :)
ReplyDeleteI love working with gold leaf! The mix of shine with the aged pots is perfect! Enjoying Spring Fever here in Northern California.
ReplyDeleteThese are gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteXO
Kristin
So glad I saw this picture on Pinterest-I'm working on 4 pots right now for 4 new plants! I'm stoked! great tips regarding the size as well- your "apply leaf immediately" technique is working perfectly for me! <3
ReplyDelete