Exposure to sunlight can age clay pots over time.
Clay pots can add a purely decorative touch to your home or double as containers for household objects. Pots that are stored outdoors in a shaded area and are watered frequently can show signs of aging in several weeks. Those who are less patient have a choice of techniques that create an aged look in less time.
Instructions
Using Fertilizer or Soil
1. Insert a cork into the clay pot's drainage hole. Light a candle and allow the hot wax to seal the cork on the outside of the pot. Fill the pot with water and add five times the recommended amount of fertilizer into the pot.
2. Stir and add water to the pot again as necessary. Moisten soil and smear it over the outside of the pot. Move the pot to a shaded area and wait a few weeks.
3. Drain the fertilizer and water, and remove the cork. Sanitize the pot before use.
Using Dairy Products
4. Mix pieces of moss with 2 cups of buttermilk or yogurt. Use a paintbrush or a foam brush to paint the mixture onto your pot.
5. Seal the pot in a plastic bag and store it in a cool, shaded area. Moss should begin to form after 10 days. Remove the pot from the plastic bag.
6. Place the pot in your garden or another location. Water it regularly to promote the growth of moss.
Using Wood Stain
7. Dip a sponge into wood stain and quickly coat the outside of the pot.
8. Rub in the stain and allow it to dry.
9. Use a paintbrush or foam brush to add more layers of wood stain to create an uneven, aged appearance.
Using Acrylic Paint
10. Mix two parts of glaze to one part of brown acrylic paint. Other dark acrylic paints, such as dark green or tan, can also work.
11. Stir the mixture and apply it to a sponge. Dab at the pot, circling as you paint instead of applying paint up and down.
12. Remove excess paint with a cloth. Let the paint dry, and add more layers as desired.
