A DIY Faux Stone Planter That Easily Passes As The Real Thing

If you're looking to jazz up your outdoor spaces, making your own DIY faux stone planter is a fulfilling and relatively simple way to do so. To transform basic planters into pieces that look like they were carved out of real stone (minus the price tag), all you need are a few basic supplies. For the stucco patch method, you'll need terracotta or plastic pots, ready mix stucco patch, peat moss or dirt, neutral-colored paint (like beige or gray), paint brushes, and a medium- to low-grit sanding sponge. The peat moss gives your faux stone pot a nice weathered look, while the paint creates that nice stone finish. For the textured spray paint option, you'll need plastic or terra-cotta pots, primer, and — of course — textured spray paint.

These faux stone planters bring a touch of timeless sophistication to your patio and-or garden, and the best part is that they're easy to create and maintain — making them both practical and visually appealing additions to your outdoor oasis.

The first technique involves using stucco patch to mimic the look of concrete. It's a little bit more labor-intensive, but completely worth it. Begin by applying a thin layer of stucco patch to the exterior of your planter using a brush. The goal is to create a textured, stone-like surface while keeping the original shape of the planter. Stucco patch can be a bit tricky to work with because it dries rather quickly. However, it also allows you to apply multiple layers for added texture in a fraction of the time.

Once the stucco patch is dry, it's time to add your color. Apply the paint to the surface of the planter and — while it's still wet — rub some dirt or peat moss on it. This creates a natural, weathered appearance. Make sure to cover the top edge of the planter, too. To age the planter and give it more dimension, lightly sand over the painted surface using a medium- to low-grit sanding block or sponge. This step will reveal the underlying stucco patch and enhance the texture, which gives your planter that authentic, stone-like finish. The end result is an impressive faux stone planter that can withstand the elements.

This is a much easier version that has a similar effect. The textured spray paint gives your planters the appearance of real stone, while the primer provides a solid foundation that ensures the spray paint won't chip off. To begin, apply a coat of primer to your pots to prepare the surface for painting. Using a primer is also important when working with terracotta-colored planters, because it helps give your planter a more realistic stone finish. Once the primer has dried, apply the textured spray paint. Make sure that you choose textured spray paint that resembles natural stones, like beige, gray, or brown.

If you want it to look more authentic, consider using a mix of colors. This adds depth and variation to the faux stone finish. Feel free to experiment with different layering and-or blending techniques to get the faux stone look you're searching for. Don't be afraid to unleash your creativity and try different colors and techniques to achieve unique, faux-natural designs.