What to Paint Garden Ornaments With

Transforming your garden ornaments from drab to fab involves more than just placing them in the right spots. Adding a fresh coat of paint can revitalize them, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the best paints for garden ornaments, their benefits, and how to use them.

Before we dive into the types of paint, remember that garden ornaments are exposed to the elements. Therefore, the paint you choose should be durable, weather-resistant, and capable of withstanding temperature fluctuations and moisture.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is a popular choice for garden ornaments due to its versatility, durability, and ease of use. It's water-based, making it non-toxic and easy to clean up. Acrylic paint also dries quickly, which is a plus when you're eager to get your ornaments back in the garden.

However, acrylic paint is not as weather-resistant as other options. To extend its lifespan outdoors, consider using a sealant or varnish on top of the acrylic paint.

Spray Acrylic Paint

Spray acrylic paint offers the convenience of even coverage with minimal effort. It's perfect for large, complex, or hard-to-reach ornaments. Simply shake the can, hold it at the recommended distance, and spray away.

Spray acrylic paint is also great for creating textured effects or mimicking the look of other materials, like metal or stone.

Acrylic Craft Paint

For smaller ornaments and intricate details, acrylic craft paint is an excellent choice. It comes in a wide range of colors and can be thinned with water to create different consistencies for various techniques.

To apply acrylic craft paint, you can use brushes, sponges, or even your fingers for a more hands-on approach. Just remember to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is a decorative paint designed to give furniture and other surfaces an aged, distressed look. It's water-based, low-odor, and easy to use. Chalk paint adheres to almost any surface without the need for sanding or priming.

While chalk paint is not as weather-resistant as other options, it can be used outdoors with the application of a suitable sealant. It's perfect for creating a shabby-chic look on garden ornaments like metal chairs, wooden benches, or terracotta pots.

Chalk Paint Techniques

One of the joys of chalk paint is the ability to create unique, distressed effects. Techniques like dry brushing, layering, and waxing can transform your garden ornaments into beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces.

For example, you can create an ombré effect by blending two or more colors of chalk paint, or use a dark wax to age and protect your painted surface.

Chalk Paint Sealants

To protect your chalk paint from the elements, apply a suitable sealant. Chalk paint wax is a popular choice as it enhances the paint's matte finish and provides a layer of protection. Alternatively, you can use a clear varnish or polyurethane sealant for added durability.

Remember to apply sealants in thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next.

Spray Paint

Spray paint is a quick and easy way to update garden ornaments. It's available in a wide range of colors and finishes, from glossy to matte, and can be used on various surfaces, including metal, plastic, and wood.

Spray paint is weather-resistant and durable, making it a good choice for outdoor use. However, it's important to note that spray paint is not as eco-friendly as other options, as it often contains harmful chemicals like VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Preparing to Spray Paint

Before you start painting, prepare your workspace by laying down drop cloths or old newspapers to protect the surface. If you're painting indoors, ensure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.

Clean your ornaments thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or residue that could interfere with paint adhesion. For metal or plastic ornaments, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere better.

Spray Painting Techniques

When spray painting, hold the can at the recommended distance (usually 10-12 inches away) and apply even, sweeping motions. Start from one side and work your way across, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure even coverage.

To achieve a professional finish, apply multiple thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. This will help prevent drips and ensure even coverage.

FolkArt Outdoor Paint

FolkArt Outdoor Paint is a versatile, water-based paint designed specifically for outdoor use. It's durable, weather-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors and finishes. FolkArt Outdoor Paint adheres to various surfaces, including wood, metal, plastic, and glass.

One of the standout features of FolkArt Outdoor Paint is its ability to adhere to slick surfaces without the need for priming. This makes it an excellent choice for painting garden ornaments that are difficult to sand or prepare.

FolkArt Outdoor Paint Techniques

FolkArt Outdoor Paint can be used to create a variety of effects, from solid colors to distressed, aged looks. To create a distressed finish, apply a base color, then use a damp cloth or sandpaper to rub off the paint in desired areas, revealing the underlying color.

For a more textured effect, mix FolkArt Outdoor Paint with a medium like crackle glaze or texture paste before applying it to your surface.

FolkArt Outdoor Paint Sealants

While FolkArt Outdoor Paint is designed to withstand the elements, applying a suitable sealant can extend its lifespan. FolkArt offers a range of sealants, including a clear varnish and a protective topcoat, designed to work with their outdoor paint.

Apply sealants in thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. This will help ensure a durable, long-lasting finish.

With the right paint and a bit of creativity, you can transform your garden ornaments into stunning focal points. So, grab your brushes, dust off your ornaments, and get painting! The possibilities are endless, and your garden will thank you for the makeover.