How to seal painted pots and why it's so important, by Creative Ramblings on YouTube. 2 min 49 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 49 s
- Time to do it
- 1 hour plus drying time
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 6
What you need
Steps
Wipe the pot inside and out with a damp cloth to remove dust and grit. Let it dry completely before you paint.
Paint the outside with acrylic paint in thin coats. Let each coat dry before adding the next, then leave the paint to cure.
Spray sealer inside the pot, covering the base and walls. This layer stops water soaking through the clay and cracking your paint.
Keep the drainage hole clear. Wipe away any sealer or paint that blocks it so water can still escape.
Seal the outside with two or three thin coats of spray sealer. Hold the can about 8 to 10 inches away and sweep across in steady lines.
Let the pot dry in a warm, ventilated spot for 24 to 48 hours before you fill it with soil.
Tips and common mistakes
Spray several thin coats rather than one heavy coat, which runs and dries unevenly.
Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space and wear a mask while spraying sealer.
Seal both the inside and the outside, since water seeping through bare clay is what cracks the paint.
Wash sealed pots with a soft cloth and mild soap instead of scrubbing hard.
Questions
Will sealing the inside block drainage?
No, as long as you keep the drainage hole clear. Seal the walls and base but wipe the hole clean so water still runs out.
How long should I wait before planting?
Wait at least 24 to 48 hours for the sealer to cure. Planting too soon traps fumes and softens the finish.
Can I use a brush-on sealer instead of a spray?
Yes, a brush-on sealer works fine. Apply thin coats and brush out any drips so the finish stays even.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
