summer is in full swing, and yet here in the bay area i’m wearing a sweater and wool socks…go figure. but when the fog burns off and i head outside later, i might have to pick up some materials to make these adorable pots. bonnie from going home to roost has kindly included the templates for these charming labels, and the great part about this simple project is you don’t have to stop at pots! i can see these cute chalkboard labels on old jars, crates, and storage boxes. thanks for sharing, bonnie! -kate

when i first learned how to make custom colored chalkboard paint, i knew it would come in handy again.  what endless possibilities there are!  as i was strolling by the planters in my local hardware store, i couldn’t pass up their cheapest terra cotta planter, and the opportunity to doll it up- diy style.  budget friendly and finished in less than an hour, this project is an easy way to pretty up your home, patio or garden! -bonnie

CLICK HERE for the full how-to after the jump!

Materials:

- terra cotta gardening pots (unglazed)
-1 cup flat latex paint in your desired color
- 2 tbs unsanded tile grout for each cup of paint (avail. at your local hardware store)
- sponge brush
- tape
- paper
- exacto knife (or scissors)
- chalk
- label template

Instructions:

1. Download the label template and cut each shape out into rectangles that will fit onto your pot (you can increase or decrease the label size for varying pot sizes).

2. Using an exacto knife or scissors, cut the templates out from the inside to create your stencil.  Tape the stencil to your garden pot along the outside edges.

3. In a cup or bowl, mix one cup flat latex paint with 2 tbs unsanded tile grout, then stir well until all of the clumps dissolve.

4. Dip the sponge brush into your ‘chalkboard’ paint and begin painting inside you stencil using brush strokes from the outside in.  Fill in the stencil, being careful not to get paint under the edges of the paper.  Let paint dry (about 15 minutes) and apply a second coat.

5. Once the second coat is dry (another 15 minutes) remove the tape and stencil to reveal your chalkboard design!

6. Once fully cured ‘season’ your chalkboard by rubbing the entire area with a piece of chalk and wipe clean with a damp cloth.  Now you’re ready to write away!

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