How I Got That Rustic Vase

December 1, 2021

How do you feel about that rustic look or “aged old world” finish and rustic patina on pottery?

It seems that vintage, rustic pottery is the trend. Any and all that hold that rustic look are popping up all over and are readily available in American upscale home furnishing and retail stores. The best of the best resembles true found treasures. For me, one of the biggest issues of the vintage pottery is that it can be very pricey. So, I have kept my eyes peeled for a good bargain, one that will be the centerpiece of my styling. Well, then there is always the alternative of a DIY old world pottery look. There are a ton of influencers creating this look. This inspired me to create my own “aged old world” patina on a large vase.

In The Beginning

High on glaze and shine a $15.00 purchase from Home Goods became my DIY experiment.

Step 1:

After cleaning the outside of dust, I (primed) spray painted the vase using matte black spray paint. I completed this step so additional paint would adhere better.

Step 2:

Once dry, using gray paint mixed with baking soda as the base, I began applying the paint with a brush.

Step 3:

I made sure that I got the texture that I was looking for in an old-world vessel. I continued to apply paints, (in a dry brush fashion). Using a little black, a little brown, and a little coppery-red paint all mixed with baking soda. I wasn’t concerned if the paints were mixed together in spots on the vessel. Hoping it would add character.

I added baking soda to the paint for a finished-by-hand look and to achieve that timeworn antique.

Set It for the Season

Rustic vases add an element of charm and character, and I wanted this one to have more character with more “aged old world” farmhouse charm. With added red berry branches, my DIY earthenware vessel becomes a unique centerpiece set for the holiday season.

I’m loving the matte finish and timeless shape. It’s the layers that make it feel authentic and timeworn. Although not a hand-glazed earthenware vase, it has the dark color, texture & somewhat aged look that I was going for.

Alone or arranged in groups, they make the perfect styling piece for shelves, consoles and tables.  They will add some history to your space. I can’t wait to try more and different techniques on additional pots! I’ve always loved the look of ancient pots, but I don’t want to spend a million dollars on one…this is a perfect solution for a budget friendly old pot! I’m looking for a more collected look, by placing multiples together, and bringing them to life with favorite botanicals. Maybe with some foraged flora.

In different lights, my rustic looking vase takes on different tones and shades of color.

I hope I’ve inspired you to give this painting technique a try. It was a fun DIY. I wasn’t worried about messing it up… I just went for it. Remember, it’s just paint, and you can keep changing its color.

Always sharing my wild west stylin’ for my wild west livin’.