Learn some quick techniques on how to update an old vase using simple craft supplies you most likely already have on hand!
One decorating trend I’m currently loving is the use of earthenware vases and planters. You can use these vases with or without plants to create decorative vignettes and to style open shelves. Many of the vase options that I’ve had my eye on are a bit pricey, so I thought it would be fun to create a similar vibe and look for less! Pictured below are some of my inspiration pieces. I’ve affiliate linked them for you below.
Inspiration photo sources top left to right: 1. Home Depot 2. Pottery Barn 3. Pottery Barn 4. Arhuas
And here are the two vases I came up with using some $3 thrift store vases and some paint, glaze, twine and hot glue!
Vase Makeover Materials Suggested:
- Vases – Ceramic, terracotta, or glass will all work.
- Paint – I used Fusion Mineral paint on the ceramic vase and acrylic craft paint on the jute-covered vase. If painting glass, you’ll want to use a primer and spray paint.
- Glaze or polyurethane
- Jute twine
- Hot glue gun and hot glue
How to Glue Jute to Glass Vase
I found this cute vase at Goodwill and liked it well enough in it’s “before” state but decided to give it a different look with some jute twine. 
The easiest way to cover glass with jute is with the help of a hot glue gun. Simply run a small bead of hot glue around the perimeter of the vase and press the jute into place. This is great activity to do while binging your favorite Netflix show!
The process goes fairly quick after you get the hang of it. At this point you can stop or you can take things one step further and pain the vase to create a two-toned effect. 
I used painter’s tape to create a cleaner edge and then painted the upper portion of the vase using white acrylic craft paint.
The jute is difficult to cover so two coats of paint may be needed. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before recoating. You could also use spray paint if desired.
How to Create a Textured Paint Finish on a Vase
When looking for second hand vases to transform, I always look for vases with interesting shapes first. Vase colors and patterns can be transformed. If the vase is embossed or has raised lettering, I typically skip over it unless I think I can work with it. I loved the shape and size of this vase and knew it would look great with a fresh coat of paint!
I used Fusion Mineral paint in two different shades and added a texturizing powder to my darker shade of paint to give a more rustic feel to the surface. You could also use a flat acrylic paint and some sanded grout to achieve a similar finish. Don’t be fearful to experiment and try different mediums on your vase!
Next, I used an antiquing glaze on the top and bottom of the vase.
A sponge brush helps control the amount of glaze on the vase. You can use a makeup sponge as well. I sealed the vase with a coat of clear glaze.
And here is the AFTER!
I find it so fun and rewarding to breathe new life into old decor, and if you’re reading this then I’m guessing you do too! I hope you feel inspired to spruce up an old vase of your own.
Hi, This is just the inspiration I need. I actually saw a vase on Saturday and looked at it twice but passed it up because I couldn’t wrap my head around how I was going to make it work. Love what you did with your vases and thanks for sharing the process.
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! It’s always fun to spruce up an old find.