Paper Mosaic Planters

Materials:

various colors of art paper
scissors
planters (made of metal, wood, terra-cotta, etc.)
decoupage or craft glue
lumber paint (or another color of choice) mixed with glaze
sponge brush
acrylic sealer
spray sealer

Steps:

1. Cut the art paper into one-inch squares. An easy technique is to cut the paper into strips first, then cut into smaller pieces.
   
   
2. Get a planter with a color you like because the color will become the background.
   
   
3. Apply glue to a small portion of the outside of the planter. Begin applying the paper squares in the mosaic pattern you've chosen (figure A). Be sure to leave a space or "grout line" between each piece of paper (figure B).
   
   
4. After the pattern is completed, seal the papers down with another layer of glue. Let dry.
   
   
5. To age the mosaic, take a combination of umber paint (or other brownish tint) and clear glaze and brush on the mosaic (figure C). It will dry less brown than it goes on.
   
   
6. Let dry, then apply a clear sealant.