07/26/2018
Hello Again!
Today, I thought I'd share what I've learned about making French Pots. Of course, being me, I started by doing some serious research on google where I found quite a bit of good information, including some You Tube videos, I already had an account with Graphics Fairy so I was ready to begin.
In my research, I had found several techniques - many of them are on GF. The one thing all of them had in common was Modge Podge - from there they differed in wait time, application, paper, pot preparation, etc.
I'll deal with pot prep first. First, finding the right pots can be a challenge unless you're happy with the standard issue. Lowe's had some short wide pots that worked well; I haven't yet found an urn-shaped pot but I'm still looking.
Some of the techniques were pretty involved (leaving in pond water for a period of time, using a salt bath, etc.) and some were more time consuming than I wanted. If I'd had a pond handy, I'd use that option for sure! I'm sure those more authentic techniques produce amazing results, but I ended up deciding to use a chalk paint wash in pure white. Terra Cotta absorbs and dries quickly, but if you want to redo something, you can just add more water to the process. I started with a chip brush but also used soft cloths and paper towels to get the look I wanted. I also used a paper towel to dab on a light gray around the bottom as well as adding a bit of olive green to create that algae look especially around the bottom of the rim. It's all pretty forgiving and the graphic itself willl add to the mottled look. And, if you don't like it, you can always apply a lot of water and remove much of it. Be sure to add some paint to the inside so that it doesn't look like a new pot inside and old outside.
Once I finished the pot, applying the graphic came next and here's where techniques varied from several steps to the more simple. I began by running the graphic on card stock, trimming the extra outlining (not from the inside) paper away, applying Modge Podge to both pot and graphic, applying the graphic to the pot, and waiting a day for it to dry. I did not like using the card stock - too thick - and I dispensed with applying MP to the pot; the rest remained. The other thing I will change in the future is to use cheaper paper; mine was 24lb and I think 20lb will be fine. The heavier the paper, the more work involved in rubbing it off the pot.
So, my preferred method is to be sure the graphic has good contrast in color or BW, use MP on just the graphic, be sure that it has adhered completely and is smooth without wrinkles, wait at least 24 hours, and then use a wet (not dripping) sponge to remove the outer layer of paper and wet the interior layer. Then, carefully with the flat part of your finger or sometimes thumb, rub off the paper that is still there. Don't get too physical with it because you could rub off some of the print. If a bit of the paper is still there, it can be camouflaged by the paint on your pot, but you must not leave loose bits of paper. Use a damp sponge to get rid of any remaining debris.
Once the pot is dry, the final step is to lightly spray the graphic with a clear matte sealer to keep in in tact through the rain, hose, or watering can. The add a beautiful plant and enjoy!
I love these pots! They are eye-catching additions to any garden, and they make wonderful gifts, which you can tailor to the recipient. I found a French advertisement for "Fonderie de Cuivre Plomberie" to give to my niece whose husband is a plumber.
Thanks for reading. Now go out and try one yourself!
Kathy
