Festive DIY Mod Podge Christmas Pots

Make these festive DIY mod podge Christmas pots using cocktail napkins! This easy craft is fun, and the end result is so beautiful. Fill the pots with goodies and give as gifts, or keep them for yourself!

holly napkins on terra cotta pots with mod podge

Up today is a fun project that I wasn’t actually going to share on the blog…because it’s a repeat of a craft I showed you last spring. However, about halfway through the process, I changed my mind!

I’m talking about Mod Podge and terra cotta pots. I made the pots featured here today as gifts for some friends. I love the way they turned out, and I know you like unique gift-giving ideas. The plan is to fill them with little bags of cookies or candy, so the pot becomes part of the gift. More on that later.

mod podge jar and cut out napkins

See the Spring Terra Cotta Pots

The method for making the DIY Mod Podge pots didn’t change at all from when I shared it last spring. In fact, this time around, it all went quickly, and seemed easier. The idea for these Christmas pots came about when I saw the holly napkins. I knew they would work beautifully with Mod Podge, so I paired them with the pots, and the result was a unique Christmas packaging idea that is easy and festive.

*Affiliate links included. Click HERE for my disclosure statement.

Supplies Needed

How to Make

Step 1: It’s a personal choice whether or not to paint your pots. If you like the terra cotta finish, by all means leave them unpainted.

Since the background of the napkins is white, I decided to paint the pots the same color. It’s actually a DecoArt chalk paint color called “lace.” This made it much easier to cut out the holly, because I didn’t have to be super precise. The white background of the napkins blended right in with the painted pots. Make sure to let the pots dry completely before proceeding.

painted terra cotta pots and napkins for diy mod podge craft

Step 2: Unfold several napkins and separate the layers. Most napkins are either 2-ply or 3-ply. For this project, you want the top layer only.

Step 3: Cut out designs from the napkins. Sharp scissors with a pointed end make the job much easier. Get my favorite scissors HERE.

using mod podge on white terra cotta pots

Step 4: Pour some Mod Podge into a throw-away container. Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge on a section of a pot. Carefully apply a napkin piece and gently adhere it to the layer of Mod Podge. Smooth it out with the foam brush, covering it completely with more Mod Podge. Continue around the pot until the design is complete.

Step 5: Let the pot(s) dry completely, at least an hour. When dry, finish each pot with a final layer of Mod Podge.

Waterproof Tip

These pots are not water-proof. If you fill them with potting soil and real plants, they must be prepared first. I heard from a reader who said she applied polycrylic spray to both the outside and inside of her finished pots. She planted herbs, and said the pots are holding up very well. Get Minwax Polycrylic Spray {HERE.}

painted holly appliqued terra cotta pots

I already had the paint and Mod Podge, so the pots and napkins were my only expenses. These DIY Mod Podge pots came to just under $6.00 each. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Magazine pages, tissue paper, or fabric.

Yes! To make homemade Mod Podge, make a mixture of 2 parts Elmers Glue and 1 part water. Stir well. Store in an airtight container.

Yes! Mod Podge is basically a decoupage glue. It comes in a gloss finish, matte, hard coat, and an outdoor finish. There’s antique matte, and glow-in-the-dark.

The holidays can be challenging, and a heart-felt gift like this will truly brighten someone’s day. It’s simple enough that the recipient won’t feel obligated to reciprocate, yet it’s nice enough that they will feel special. I can’t think of anything better. 

See how to fill these sweet pots with Christmas goodies!

bags of cookies in holly terra cotta pots
holly napkins on terra cotta pots with mod podge

Until next time…

subscribe car with tree printable

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20 Comments

  1. I love this! Planning for next years family gift ideas!

  2. Ann, these are so pretty. They would be a perfect little gift for kids to make.
    I always enjoy your imaginative ideas.
    Thanks also for sharing your lovely printable watercolors for the different seasons and holidays. You are so talented.
    Have a wonderful day!

  3. Hi Ann,

    Such a lovely idea but then since I’m new here, I decided to look at the spring version you mentioned and oh how pretty! I will be doing those! Thanks for the tips and sharing your wonderful ideas! Can’t wait to continue to navigate your site for many other suggestions and tips.

    Best Wishes,
    Carmen

  4. Carolyn King says:

    These pots are so pretty and Christmas. I can’t wait to make them. I ordered the pots and napkins. Thank you for your beautiful blog. I look forward to reading it everyday.

  5. These are darling!!! Even kids could do this craft. Where do you find the red and white twine? And are those your gift tags too? Love them

  6. Cecilia from Georgia says:

    These are so lovely! They will make perfect teacher gifts! Thanks

  7. Elaine Birdsong says:

    5 stars
    Ann,
    I should tell you more but I get in a hurry. Your post are so neat, clean and fun.
    I hope your holidays are special.
    Fondly,
    Elaine

    1. Ann Drake says:

      Hi Elaine…no need to tell me, but I appreciate you kind comment. I am just happy that you visit! Merry Christmas, Ann

  8. So pretty! Perfect for gifting!

  9. These little pots are the cutest ! What a lovely gift to fill with candies, cookies or even a gift card.Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

  10. Judy Bogié says:

    The perfect Christmas and/or seasonal easy gift project, Ann❣️Thank you. Hopefully you’ll enjoy your Thanksgiving ~~~Stay Well, God Bless.

  11. The napkins are so beautiful on these little pots, just adorable! Will be finding some napkins and definitely doing a few this Christmas, thank you!

  12. What a thoughtful gesture Ann !
    They really turned out lovely & I’m sure they will be received with gratitude !

  13. 5 stars
    Oh I love these! I also love your statement that they are simple enough that recipients won’t feel the need to reciprocate. Most people are not good receivers and feel they owe gift-givers when they receive a gift – so this is fantastic! I love your thoughtful and gracious spirit, Ann. It’s part of the reason I read and enjoy your blog. Thank you for who you are and all that you share with your readers. You likely don’t even recognize all that you do give.

  14. They are adorable. Thanks for sharing.

  15. This is a lovely idea and I know just who I will make them for! Thank you so much for the idea.

  16. Becky Kerwin says:

    I would love to find out where to find this water color print that you have in your last post but I cannot find it anywhere. Please help me! Thank you! It was the one with the red station wagon with the lamp sitting in front of it! Thanks again!!!

    1. Hi Becky, the print should be in Ann’s free printables. If you add your email to receive On Sutton Place emails, you will receive the password to get the free printable. There are awesome printables for every season and holiday.

  17. These are the greatest little gift ideas for anyone plus side can be kept for decoration in the future love em x