
Terra cotta pots can be painted and decorated to resemble gumball machines. This simple DIY project can be done in a few steps. First, paint the pot and saucer with spray paint, acrylic paint, or regular paint. Let the paint dry, and then decorate the pot with stickers or drawings. You can also add a gold leaf look by applying spray adhesive and gold leaf. Once the decorations are complete, attach a glass bowl to the top of the pot with super glue. Fill the bowl with gumballs or candy, and your gumball machine is complete! This craft is versatile and can be used as a gift, party decoration, or fun project for kids.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | terracotta pot, saucer, glass bowl, acrylic paint, wooden ball, adhesive, yarn, duct tape, stickers, markers, candy |
| Steps | 1. Paint the pot and saucer. 2. Allow to dry. 3. Apply Modge Podge. 4. Decorate with stickers. 5. Apply another layer of Modge Podge. 6. Attach the glass bowl with adhesive. 7. Attach the wooden ball to the saucer with adhesive. 8. Allow to dry. 9. Fill with candy. |
| Tips | Use a variety of colours and sizes. Colour-coordinate the pot with a party theme. Add a gold leaf look with spray adhesive and gold leaf. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

Paint the pot with spray paint or acrylic paint
Painting your terracotta pots is a simple and fun project. You can use spray paint or acrylic paint to achieve the desired look. If you're using spray paint, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and follow the instructions on the can for the best results. Apply light, even coats to avoid dripping and allow sufficient drying time between coats.
If you prefer using acrylic paint, you can apply it with a brush or a roller. Acrylic paint is a great option if you want to get creative with colours and designs. You can mix different colours to create unique shades, and even add details with thin paintbrushes. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the pot or adding any additional decorations.
Both spray paint and acrylic paint will provide good coverage and a smooth finish to your gumball machine pot. You can choose any colour you like, from classic red to gold or even black and orange for a Halloween-themed machine. The possibilities are endless!
If you're using light colours or want an even base, consider priming your pot first. A coat of primer will help the paint adhere better and give you a smoother finish. You can find primers specifically made for terracotta pots, or you can use a general-purpose primer.
Once you've painted your pot and allowed it to dry, you can add additional decorations such as stickers or decals. You can also use Modge Podge to make it easier to reposition any stickers and give your gumball machine pot a finished look. Get creative and make your DIY gumball machine truly unique!
Uncover Your Painting's Story: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Let the paint dry
Painting terra cotta pots as gumball machines is a fun and simple project. Once you have painted your pot with your chosen colour of acrylic paint, it is important to let the paint dry. Depending on the type of paint you have used, the drying time will vary. For example, spray paint dries much faster than regular acrylic paint. You should allow the paint to dry for at least an hour, but if you can, it is best to leave it for 24 hours to ensure that the paint is completely dry. This is especially important if you are using the gumball machine as a candy dish, as you don't want the paint to come off on the candy.
While you are waiting for the paint to dry, you can start thinking about how you want to decorate your gumball machine. You can paint words on it, use stickers or decals, or even modge podge a picture onto it. If you plan to use stickers or decals, you can apply a layer of Modge Podge before adding them, as this will make it easier to reposition them if you need to. Once you have added your stickers or decals, apply another layer of Modge Podge and let it dry for about an hour.
If you want to give your gumball machine a gold leaf look, you can apply a spray adhesive to the painted pot and then add the gold leaf while the adhesive is still tacky. Allow the gold leaf to dry completely before sealing the pot with a good-quality spray sealer.
Once the paint is dry, you can start assembling your gumball machine. Attach a glass bowl to the top of the pot with super glue and set it aside to dry. You can also add a knob to the saucer with E6000 glue and let it set for 24 hours to ensure that the glue is completely dry.
By following these steps and allowing the paint to dry thoroughly, you will end up with a cute and functional gumball machine that you can fill with your favourite candy or use as a decoration.
Artistic Style: Enhancing the Subject's Message
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Decorate the pot with stickers or decals
Once you've painted your gumball machine and allowed it to dry, it's time to decorate it with stickers or decals. First, apply a coat of Modge Podge to the pot with a brush. This will make it easier to reposition your stickers or decals if needed. You can also use a spray adhesive if you prefer.
Next, carefully apply your chosen stickers or decals to the pot. Smooth out any air bubbles and ensure the edges are firmly adhered to the pot. If you're using stickers, you can simply peel off the backing and stick them onto the pot. If you're using decals, you may need to apply them with a wet applicator for a smooth finish.
Once your stickers or decals are in place, apply another coat of Modge Podge over the top to seal them in. Allow this to dry for about an hour. If you're using spray adhesive, follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time.
You can get creative with your sticker or decal choices. For a fun and colourful option, choose stickers in various shapes and sizes, such as stars, hearts, or even small gumballs. If you want a more elegant look, consider gold or silver decals in intricate designs. You can also find stickers or decals that spell out words or phrases, such as "Enjoy" or "Sweet Treats."
Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of stickers and decals to create a unique and personalised gumball machine. This is a great way to add your own flair to the project and make it truly one-of-a-kind.
Exploring Fresco Painting: Creating Art on Fresh Plaster
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$5.79

Attach a glass bowl to the top of the pot with super glue
Once you've painted your gumball machine and allowed it to dry, it's time to attach the glass bowl to the top of the pot with super glue. This step requires careful placement, as you want to ensure the glass bowl is centred and secure.
Begin by finding the centre of the pot. You can do this by tracing a circle on the pot with a compass or a round object that matches the size of the glass bowl's opening. Alternatively, if your pot has an even diameter, you can simply measure and mark the centre point.
Apply a generous amount of super glue to the bottom rim of the glass bowl. Carefully lower the bowl onto the centre of the pot, ensuring that the bowl is aligned with the centre mark you made earlier. Gently press the bowl down and hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond.
If you're using a clay saucer as a lid, as some gumball machine designs suggest, you can attach it to the glass bowl using super glue as well. Place a small amount of super glue in the centre of the saucer and carefully lower it onto the glass bowl, holding it in place until the glue sets.
It's important to allow the super glue to dry completely before filling your gumball machine with candy or other decorations. The drying time may vary depending on the type of super glue used, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions or allow at least a few hours for the glue to cure fully.
Transitioning Paint Colors: A Smooth Guide for Your Home
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Fill the gumball machine with candy or gumballs
Once your gumball machine is painted and dry, it's time to fill it with candy or gumballs! Choose your favourite treats to put inside—gumballs, jelly beans, M&Ms, or any colourful candy will do. You can also fill it with pom-poms or beads if you prefer. If you're making this craft with kids, let them pick their favourite treats to fill their gumball machine.
If you're using a glass bowl or ornament to create the top of your gumball machine, you can fill it with candy before gluing it to the terracotta pot. This will allow you to easily refill the machine when it's empty. Make sure to use a strong glue, such as super glue or E6000 adhesive, to attach the glass bowl or ornament to the pot.
For a fun twist, you can use different types of candy to create a themed gumball machine. For example, fill it with gummy worms and paint a spider web on the lid for Halloween. You can also colour-coordinate the candy with your party's theme. The possibilities are endless!
If you're using a clear ornament or glass bowl, the candy or treats will be visible, adding to the visual appeal of your gumball machine. You can also use a clear snap-together ornament, which has its own removable top, making it easy to refill with candy. Choose colourful treats to create a vibrant and enticing display.
Get creative and experiment with different fillings for your gumball machine. This versatile craft can be customised to suit any occasion or personal preference. Enjoy your sweet creation!
Creating a Patriotic Shirt: Painting an American Flag
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You will need a terra cotta pot, a clear ornament, pom poms or beads, paint, a black marker, duct tape, and glue.
First, paint the pot with your desired colour and let it dry. Next, draw a slot for the "candy" with a black marker. Cut an oval piece of duct tape and stick it to the pot, then write "25 cents" with the marker. Fill your ornament with pom poms or beads to represent the candy. Finally, glue the ornament to the bottom of the pot.
You can paint the pot with different colours to match a party theme or a holiday like Halloween. You can also fill the gumball machine with different types of candy or use it for non-candy items like succulents or dip at a party.











































