Make a Chalkboard Flower Pot
Need an idea for a creative teacher's gift or just something to brighten someone special’s day? Instead of just getting a run-of-the-mill plant, create a flower pot that “says” something to the recipient and design a chalkboard flower pot (with love).
Contents
Steps
Preparing the Workspace
- Create a space for spray painting the flower pot. Cover surfaces with newspaper or a drop cloth to prevent staining. In addition, make sure the area is well ventilated (or go outdoors).
Painting the Pot
- Place the pot (without the plant inside it) on the covered surface. Option: Shake the can as instructed, then spray to coat the pot evenly with chalkboard spray paint.
- Smoothen the pot using an 80 grit sandpaper.
- Clean it using a wet rag so the dust will be removed.
- Start Spraying the pot
- If you don't have a Chalk spray paint, you can purchase chalk paint readily available in a hardware shop.
- Allow the first coat of paint to dry. This can take up to 24 hours depending on humidity levels.
- Consider adding a second coat. You will want this paint to be especially durable as your recipient will be writing on it (and erasing) often.
- Add flourishes to the pot if desired. If you're going to paint a special message or add a painted border along the top of the pot, do this now.
- Messages could include "Best Sister", "Thanks, Teacher" or "Love You", etc.
Adding the Plant or Flower
- Carefully drop the flower or plant into the fully dried decorated pot.
- Make sure all of the paint has completely dried and completely finished before adding the plant. Painted leaves make it hard for the plant to photosynthesize!
- Add a ribbon and/or card holder to the plant. Finish off the gift with a decorative ribbon or some way to make it look festive. It's now ready to give to your lucky recipient.
- Write a special message on the chalkboard paint. For example, write something like “thank you for helping me to grow” if you're giving to a teacher, or "thanks for all your help with the bake sale" for a volunteer.
- Finished.
Tips
- Make sure the bottom of the pot has proper drainage, or the plant will suffer from root rot.
- Consider wrapping the plant in decorative cellophane wrap if you are giving it as a gift.
Warnings
- Find out in advance if your recipient is allergic to any plants and avoid those.
Things You'll Need
- A plant, suited to your budget
- Plant/flower pot or container – avoid any pot that is glazed or cannot be painted as it won't work
- Chalkboard spray paint
- Decorative elements such as a ribbon, a package of chalk (and also a piece of chalk that can be used to write a special message) and a card holder that can be placed in the plant’s dirt; you may also want to add a painted border at the top of the pot or a special message with paint
