The Perfect Boho Thrifted Faux Terracotta Vases

UPGRADE YOUR OLD AND THRIFTED VASES TO AN EARTHY BOHO LOOK

Got old, dated, or ugly vases? I have a solution for you! These faux terracotta vases look so great in your space and allow you to reuse something you’re not using anymore!

If you’re interested in DIY Fall decor, be sure to check out this Fall DIY Wheat Wreath and these DIY Scrap Wood Lanterns.

Materials for projects. Paints, Vase, paint brush, plastic container, baking soda

SUPPLIES

Thrifted/outdated vases
Sample size paints in a range of terracotta + cream colors
Baking Soda
Paint Brushes

GATHER MATERIALS

Honestly, once you have everything together, there really is nothing to it! I have this 5lb bag of baking soda but you really DONT need anything this large for this project. The sample paints were pretty easy to grab at The Home Depot and the brushes were cheap throw away brushes from Ikea.

MIX

The ratio is up to you! If you do less baking soda, the paint will just be a little gritty. If you want a thick, clay look, you will have to add more. Mix thoroughly to make sure there aren’t any clumps of baking soda.

There is a clear plastic cup with a rust colored paint being poured into it and a brush wiping away the excess paint.

APPLY

Paint vases with the thick paint! Keep in mind that the paint will dry slightly darker. I applied multiple layers, one to get the vase covered, and 1-2 more to create texture.

A vase is being painted a rust color with a paint brush. — Apply the paint in the direction that you desire to see streaks. They will be visible once the paint dries.

A wet vase showing that the opening of the vase. The paint goes down into the opening a little. — Also remember that, sometimes, the inside rim of the vase can be visible, so be sure to paint a bit into the opening.

IF I WERE TO DO IT AGAIN

If I were to do it again, I would’ve sprayed a self-etching primer or I would have tried to rough up the glass surface with sanding. I fear that the paint is barely hanging on to the glass and that it will chip. At least I’ve got leftover paint to touch it up.

A vase fully painted being held up close to show texture. — Check out this texture!

FINISH

To finish it off, I applied a clear matte polyurethane. This is because of what I said above, I fear it’s going to chip. This is to help prevent that. Even if I had properly prepped the surface, I would have still applied the clear matte polyurethane.

Once the faux terracotta vases are sealed, group them in your home with some dried and bleached plants for the perfect boho look!