I found the perfect lantern at Ikea to use for this clay pot lighthouse. These cute yard decorations are easy to make!
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Supplies:
candle lantern
clay pots (various sizes that stack)
primer spray paint
outdoor craft paint (I used Patio Paint brand)
ruler
pencil
paint brush
E6000 glue (or similar)
Steps:
Spray the clay pots with multiple layers of primer. Add layers and allow to dry according to primer instructions. Spray them in a well ventilated area.
Stack the pots and use a pencil to mark where they overlap. Now you have the area that will show when they are stacked.
Divide the exposed area into equal sections for the painted stripes. I chose to have 2 red stripes and 2 white stripes. Use a ruler to make marks all the way around the pot, then connect the marks so that you have a guide line for painting.
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Paint the red areas, allowing to dry in between coats. Apply paint until you have even coverage.
Paint the white areas, allowing paint to dry in between coats. Apply paint until you have even coverage.
Optional: You can spray your painted lighthouse with exterior polyurethane for added protection.
Apply glue to the pots and stack them together. Apply glue to the bottom of the lantern and the top of the clay pot lighthouse base. Attach lantern. Allow glue to dry completely.
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Add a candle to the lantern and enjoy your new lighthouse!
I've been making lighthouses out of clay pots since '85 and always used the regular solar lights for the top. Recently I did see on the internet where someone bought the lanterns but was going to use a candle with it.
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If you can find the solar lanterns that fit the size of your top pot's bottom, go for it. Would love to hear how it turned out and your resource for the lanterns.
What kind of paint do you use for the lighthouse? Is it spray paint, as last time I painted a terra cotta pot with a paint brush it was all streaky. Any ideas on how to paint it so it is even and has not got the streak lines?