A simple sponged finish will enhance a terracotta pot without drawing the eye away from the plant it holds

You'll need:

24 cm terracotta pot
All-purpose sealer (water-based)
1 inch bristle basecoat brush
FolkArt Acrylic Gouache paints in the following colours: Ocean Blue, Ultramarine Light, Pearl White
Sponge
Paper towel
Good quality varnish brush
Satin varnish (water-based)

Here's how:

1 Seal the pot inside and out with all-purpose sealer, and allow it to dry.

2 Using the basecoat brush, apply one or two coats of Ocean Blue to the inside and outside of the pot. Allow it to dry.

3 On your palette place some Ocean Blue, Ultramarine Light and Pearl White paint. Be generous with your portions of paint, as this helps to maintain the same colour mix for the whole project.

4 Dab your sponge into the three colours, starting with the darkest colour. Blot your sponge once onto the paper towel before applying it to the pot.

5 Dab the pot with the sponge to give the desired effect. Remember when reloading your sponge to blot it on the paper towel before applying it to the pot.

6 Let the pot dry for 24 hours. Apply two or three coats of satin varnish with the varnish brush.

Source: Making Beautiful Trims, Edges and Finishing Touches (Murdoch Books)