While it may be hot in Phoenix right now, Arizonans are lucky enough to be able to use their patios pretty much year-round, unlike the rest of the country that says goodbye to theirs starting in mid-fall. Here are some DIYs from design expert and TV personality Genevieve Gorder that will make your patio inviting all year long. And while most of us may not venture outside for more than five minutes right now unless it’s to relax at the pool, these DIYs might just coax you.
Sweeten the Pot
Materials Needed: Terracotta planter pots; painter’s tape; Valspar Outdoor Spray Paint, Valspar Metallic Spray Paint Valspar and/or Aspire Interior Paint
Recommended Valspar colors:
This DIY may seem so simple you’re kicking yourself for not thinking of it yourself, but by redecorating a couple of planters, you can add a new accent color to your space or give it a more earthy feeling.
With endless options, you can decide how to paint your pot in a way that best suits your aesthetic. Completely paint a planter one color, or use painter’s tape to add stripes. Another fun and unique look can be created by dipping the bottom of the planter into the paint at an angle for an interesting round design.
“For [a] shimmering indoor herb garden, treat small pots to a gorgeous coat of rose gold paint,” Gorder says.
Patio Pick Me Up
Materials Needed: Valspar Latex Porch & Floor Paint, stencil design (can be found from royaldesignstudio.com)
Recommended Colors: Find colors that match your outdoor furniture, or take inspiration from the beautiful desert landscape
“Scandinavians have been painting patterns on floors and rugs for centuries, and it’s a genius technique for outdoor decks, as well!” Gorder says.
This DIY may seem like the most difficult of the three, but “if you know how to color, this is an easy one,” Gorder says.
After finding your perfect stencil, simply color in between the lines with a stipple brush until you’re happy with the design. Afterwards you’ll have a beautiful outdoor “rug” that will not only look unique, but also be a great conversation piece when guests are over.
Sweet Seats
Materials Needed: Wooden patio chairs, painter’s tape, Valspar Duramax Paint + Primer
Recommended Colors:
This DIY is great for the Arizonan who has some great patio furniture that the sun may have taken a toll on.
Revamp your old patio chairs by giving them some new color. Simply tape off the top third of the chair with painter’s tape, and paint the bottom two thirds of the chair with your favorite color.
“Pastel hues and sun-bleached palettes look best against wood tones,” Gorder says.
What’s great about all of these DIYs is that Gorder thought about how anyone could transform their outdoor space. And while some DIYs may seem more challenging than others, all of these projects are something the first-time DIYer to the most experienced one can tackle.
Another bonus to all of these DIYs is that they require minimum preparation and time. No need to prime or seal any of these items, so after painting, just wait for it to dry and you’re project is complete!
And, of course, you don’t have to stick to Gorder’s paint recommendations, but just know that she has found that Valspar is a truly great product. “I’ve used almost every product in the home space, and when I find something or somebody that’s amazing…I cling,” she says.
And if you’re looking to combine more than just one of these DIYs, she recommends using more muted tones to tie the looks together. Some of her favorites are Transparent, Rocky Shelter, Snug as a Bug and Strawberry Parfait.
