How to Write on Terra Cotta

How to Write on Terra Cotta
Written By
Cynthia Measom
Cynthia Measom
Published: Jan 6, 2011
Updated: Nov 19, 2019
2 minute read

Things You'll Need:

Things You Will Need

  • Water
  • Absorbent towel
  • Medium or fine-point permanent markers
  • Terra cotta pen
  • Paper
  • Clear varnish (optional)
  • Terra cotta tiles or pots serve as a blank canvas for any seasoned or aspiring artist. The smooth, reddish-orange clay surface will allow you to easily add your name, a message or an inspiring verse to a terra cotta tile or an artistic creation fashioned from clay pots. While you can utilize different writing tools to make your mark, if you plan on placing the item outdoors, you may want to take an extra step to help preserve your original work.

    Permanent Marker

    Inspect the terra cotta object to make sure the surface is clean and dry before beginning. Wipe the item with a damp, absorbent cloth if dust or dirt are on its surface. Allow the terra cotta to dry thoroughly before proceeding.

    Decide where you want to write on the terra cotta object. Place a stencil on the item to help you achieve the look you want.

    Write the letters or words with a fine or medium-point permanent marker on the terra cotta tile or pot.

    Terra Cotta Pen

    Look at the terra cotta item and make sure it's free of dust and dirt. If not, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and allow to dry before moving on to the next step.

    Leave the lid on the terra cotta pen and shake it for approximately 30 seconds. Open the lid of the pen and press the tip gently onto a piece of paper several times to stimulate the paint flow.

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    Write on the terra cotta item just as you would with any other writing implement. Be careful not to press down too hard with the pen or the paint may run.

    Cynthia Measom

    Based in Texas, Cynthia Measom has been writing various parenting, business and finance and education articles since 2011. Her articles have appeared on websites such as The Bump and Motley Fool. Measom received a Bachelor of Arts in…

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