How to make distressed terracotta pots

Step 1
Using the mixing bowl and spoon, mix in the plaster of paris and water following the manufacturers instructions. A thin mix is good for the first coat.

Apply the plaster mixture using a paintbrush or putty knife s base layer of plaster. Leave to dry. Dispose of all leftover of plaster of paris mix in a newspaper, and rinse all equipment with clean water.

Step 2
Measure the distance from the bottom of the terracotta pot to where you want to place your letters, and mark with a pencil. Pull the rubber band around the pot to the marked line.

When happy with the placement, glue them to your marks. Leave to dry.

Step 3
Mix a second batch of plaster of paris, and brush over the letters. Use the skewers or toothpicks to go around each letter. The remaining plaster can be used for a second coat over the pot. Leave to dry.

Step 4
Once dry, sand over the pot to remove any rough areas. Remove any dust with a wide paintbrush.

Step 5
Paint two coats of primer over the pots, and leave terracotta you want to show through.

Then finish with your choice of Resene top coat. I chose Resene Half Scotch Mist for a creamy antique look.

Step 6
I decanted the Resene Jaguar test pot into a container and used the bristle brush to dry brush the paint on areas of the pot. You could also use a damp cloth to add the paint and buff with a dry cloth.

Once dry, you can sandpaper again to expose the terracotta for a more distressed look.