The Versatile Use of Terracotta Plinths for Home Decor Projects

The Versatility of Terracotta Plinths for Home Decor

Terracotta plinths have become an increasingly popular decorating element in recent years. Their natural clay material and handcrafted style lend a rustic, earthy feel that works well in all different interior design schemes. Terracotta plinths are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into home decor in a variety of creative ways.

Using Repurposed Terracotta Pots or Vases

One of the easiest ways to use terracotta plinths in home decor is to repurpose old terracotta pots or vases. Garden centers and plant nurseries often sell terracotta pots very inexpensively. You can also sometimes find them at thrift stores or yard sales. If you have an old chipped or cracked terracotta pot on hand, don't throw it out! With a little creativity, these can be given new life.

Try turning a large terracotta pot or urn on its side to use as a pedestal for displaying decor items or plants. Use a hammer to carefully break a large pot into chunky pieces, then arrange the shards on a tray or tabletop to hold keys, candles or other knickknacks. Stack different sized pots and plant a trailing vine or succulent arrangement. The possibilities are endless!

Painting or Staining Terracotta

Another way to customize the look of terracotta plinths is by painting or staining them. If you don't like the natural burnt orange terracotta color, try painting your plinths a bold shade like navy, emerald or matte black. For a more modern vibe, go for a sleek solid white. If you prefer to maintain some of the original terracotta charm, use a semi-transparent glaze or stain instead of opaque paint.

When painting terracotta, be sure to use a high quality primer meant for glossy or ceramic surfaces so the paint adheres properly. Apply thin coats of paint, allowing ample drying time between coats. Once fully cured, finish with a sealant like polyurethane to protect the painted surface. With proper prep and finishing, your painted terracotta can withstand everyday wear and tear.

Incorporating Terracotta Color and Texture

For those who love the natural look of terracotta, there are ways to work the distinctive burnt orange color and rough, textured finish into home decor without using actual clay pots. Terracotta colored and textured cushions, rugs, curtains or accent walls can introduce warmth to a space. Use natural linen, jute, sisal or cotton textiles with a matte orange dye for an authentic vibe.

Terracotta pots can also be filled with decor items like dried flowers, rattan balls, sand or pine cones rather than dirt and plants. The raw texture of the empty pots contrasts nicely with the smooth items inside. Mass several filled pots on a console table or mantel for an earthy statement. You can also find terracotta colored ceramic, wood and metal decorative bowls, vases or boxes to mix into displays.

DIY Terracotta Craft Projects

For the most unique terracotta accents, try your hand at some DIY craft projects using clay pots. Turn standard pots into hanging planters by drilling holes and threading rope through them. Cut pots into slices to make trivets or candle holders. Use layers of broken shards to create colorful mosaics or wall art.

Adhere rectangular sections cut from large terracotta pots onto plain candlesticks or table legs to add dimension. Use extra shards and clay remnants to make DIY magnets, coasters or jewelry. Let your creative juices flow and the humble terracotta pot becomes a versatile crafting material for all kinds of fun projects.

Sourcing Terracotta Plinths

Terracotta pots and plinths can be found at most nurseries, garden supply stores, hardware shops or home decor retailers. Thrift stores, garage sales and online classifieds like Facebook Marketplace are great spots to score discounts on repurposing projects. For unique artisan terracotta wares, check out imports at World Market, Pier 1 or boutique home goods shops. Big box stores like Target and Walmart also carry some more basic terracotta planters and accessories at budget-friendly prices.

Design Styles for Terracotta Home Decor

From modern to farmhouse, terracotta plinths can work in just about any interior design style. Keep things clean and contemporary by opting for unembellished cylindrical vases or rectangular pots painted white. For bohemian flair, cluster an eclectic mix of intricately detailed pots with decals and distressing. Incorporating terracotta into neutral color palettes keeps the look timeless and versatile.

In farmhouse spaces, use wire baskets, galvanized metal and raw wooden surfaces to accentuate aged terracotta finishes. Mediterranean decor calls for an abundance of terracotta paired with tile, wrought iron and curvaceous silhouettes. Regardless of your personal decorating style, terracotta's flexibility makes it easy to incorporate organically.

Get Creative with Terracotta in Your Home

Hopefully this gives you plenty of inspiration for integrating terracotta plinths into your home in a variety of ways. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and repurpose or refashion humble clay pots and vessels into beautiful decorative statements. With just a little creativity, you can come up with endless stylish possibilities for using terracotta in your unique home decor theme.

FAQs

How can I repurpose old terracotta pots?

Turn them on their side to use as pedestals, break into pieces for catchalls, stack them, or plant succulents or trailing vines in them. Get creative with terracotta pot craft projects like planters, candle holders, jewelry, coasters, mosaics, and more.

What's the best way to paint terracotta?

Use a high quality primer made for glossy surfaces so the paint adheres properly. Apply thin coats and allow ample drying time between coats. Finish with a sealant like polyurethane to protect the painted surface.

Where can I buy terracotta plinths?

Check nurseries, garden stores, hardware shops, home decor retailers, thrift stores, garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, World Market, Pier 1, Target, and Walmart.

What interior design styles work with terracotta?

Terracotta works in modern, farmhouse, bohemian, Mediterranean, and other styles. Keep it looking crisp and contemporary with white paint or lean into the earthy rustic charm.

Can I make my own DIY terracotta projects?

Absolutely! Some fun DIY ideas include hanging planters, trivets, candle holders, magnets, coasters, mosaics, jewelry, and more. Get creative repurposing terracotta shards and remnants.