How to Decoupage a terracotta Plant Pot

I love terracotta pots. They are so versatile and can be decorated in so many different ways, plus, they're super inexpensive and today, I'm sharing how to decoupage on terracotta pots with paper napkins and Mod Podge.

Shabby Chic Paper Napkin from Rachel Ashwell decoupaged on to a terracotta pot with Mod Podge

The method to do this is so easy and it's part of this month's Thrifty Style Team! Once you've finished reading this post be sure to head to the bottom to see all of the other projects from the team as well as links to visit their beautiful summer décor DIYs.

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Overhead view of a Shabby Chic Paper Napkin in muted tones used to Decoupage a Terracotta pot

A few weeks ago I was at Home Goods and spotted the prettiest napkins. They're part of a shabby chic collection from Rachel Ashwell and, I had to have them.

🖌️ Supplies

📝 Instructions

Collage of 4 images of paper napkin being separated so that it can be used to decoupage on terracotta pots

First, separate the napkin layers. Most paper napkins have three layers and you'll want to separate the bottom two white layers from the top decorative layer as the top layer is the only one we'll be using. Separate each layer one at a time so that the napkin doesn't tear.

Once the napkin has been separated you can cut off any decorative edge, if you choose to. I wasn't sure how the decoupage would turn out if I left it on, so, I opted to trim it away from the center of the napkin.

Collage of 4 photos of the process of adding Mod Podge and a paper napkin to a terracotta pot

This step is optional, but I chose to paint the terracotta pot white first so that the original color of the pot wouldn't so through my napkin print.

Once the paint is dry, use a sponge (foam) brush to cover the pot with Mod Podge including the top edge and approximately 1 inch down on the inside.

Next, cover the pot with the napkin pressing down as you go, a little at a time. There will be some wrinkles but I like the look and think it adds character to the pot. Once dry, apply another coat of Mod Podge over the napkin layer.

Decoupage Terracotta Pot on top of a wooden riser with a houseplant inside

Now, use it as desired! I originally made this to transplant a houseplant in to but.....

Decoupage Terracotta plant with an olive tree in it next to a vintage gold mirror

I decided to put a faux olive tree in it....for now!

Looking to paint a terracotta pot so it looks totally unique? Check out this post!

Now, here are the shares from the rest of the team

Aren't they beautiful?

12 beautiful and thrifty décor ideas  and DIYs for your summer home.

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17 Comments

  1. This is such a great project MB, and I love the pattern of the napkin!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you so much, Cindy! I'm going all Little House on the Prairie and now I want an apron with that same pattern! xo

  2. Yessss! These colors are so happy! I love a variety of pots around!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you, Amy, and I love your description of the colors being happy...they really are!

  3. Jennifer Howard says:

    Now that's a super cute idea!! I've been trying to paint big planters all day and nothing has gone right for me..now the skies opened up and we are getting a thunderstorm...I give up!!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      I am so sorry that you weren't having success with your planter painting, Jennifer. Hopefully, you got some good weather in the last few days and were able to create what you hoped for.

  4. You can’t get any cuter than this! I love the pattern you chose, MB! Pinning!!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you so much, Julie! xo

  5. Vicki and Jenn 2 Bees in a Pod says:

    OMG Mary Beth - tis is so cute. We could see these as party favors for a garden party!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      You have such great ideas! These would be pretty for a garden party...now, maybe I should have one...or, just dream about it. xo

  6. Angie @ Postcards from the Ridge says:

    Mary Beth, I adore that flower print napkin you used for the decoupaged pot. The colors and flowers are so sweet and are perfect with your decor. Pinned!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you so much, Angie! I have more of the napkins left but I hate to use them...so, I'll do my norm and just stack them on a shelf and look at them.

  7. Kristi Dominguez says:

    Such a sweet idea, Mary Beth! I have lots of extra terra cotta pots and now want to try this! Perfect for summertime. xoxo, kristi

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you so much, Kristi!

  8. Laurie @ Vinyet Etc says:

    I love this sweet project! The colours are so pretty!

    1. Mary Beth says:

      Thank you so much, Laurie! xo

  9. Mary Beth this is so pretty and I love Rachel Ashwell too! Such a lovely pattern!