How to paint ceramic and use spray paint for an ombre effect + a thrifted vase gets an Anthropologie-inspired makeover.
If I had a dollar for every time I said, “I found this random thing at the thrift store,” I’d have enough for a serious thrift-shopping spree. I picked up a vase last week that, to me, had a dramatic, slightly theatrical vibe—think Phantom of the Opera. My husband thought I was nuts and my Instagram Stories didn’t exactly give it rave reviews either.
Still, I knew paint could make a world of difference. I had an idea for a soft, glazed ombre finish with subtle gold accents—something that would echo expensive Anthropologie vases without the hefty price tag. After refreshing the piece with primer, layered spray paint, and a touch of metallic paint, it became one of my favorite budget makeovers.
Knock-Off Ceramic Bloom Vase Makeover
Below are the supplies and step-by-step instructions I used to transform a thrifted ceramic vase into an Anthropologie-inspired accent piece.
Supplies Used:
- Spray primer
- White gloss spray paint
- Beige gloss spray paint
- Gold metallic craft paint (or liquid gold leaf)
- Small craft brush
I already had the primer and paints on hand, which made this an inexpensive project. If you’re starting from scratch, these basic materials are affordable and available at most craft or hardware stores.
The Steps:
1. Start by applying a full coat of spray primer to the entire vase. Primer helps the paint adhere to ceramic and prevents peeling.
2. Once the primer is dry, spray the vase all over with white gloss spray paint. This creates a clean base and brightens the ceramic surface.
3. After the white layer is fully dry, invert the vase and spray the bottom third with beige gloss spray paint. Hold the can about 10–12 inches away from the surface and apply the beige lightly so that the overspray produces a soft, glazed ombre effect. Building the color gradually gives you better control and a natural transition between shades.
4. When the vase is completely dry and back upright, use a small craft brush to add gold metallic paint to the raised edges of the ceramic flowers. This highlights the details and adds a refined, editorial touch. If you want a more luxurious finish, real gold leaf would be an even richer option, but metallic craft paint gives a lovely, budget-friendly result.
The finished piece is light, fresh, and versatile. I kept the colors neutral on purpose so the vase works year-round—easy to swap between seasonal decor while still feeling polished and intentional.
The entire project, including the thrifted vase and paint, cost roughly $10. That’s a huge saving compared to similar pieces sold at higher-end stores. The vase now sits in our breakfast nook and feels like it belongs—with just enough personality to make a statement without overpowering the space.
Breakfast nook notes:
- Wall color: Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee
- Dining table: similar style available from many retailers
- Chairs: ours were thrifted; you can find similar dining chairs secondhand or from budget retailers
- Chandelier: ours was secondhand and similar styles are widely available
- Stockholm map art: a neutral, graphic print helps ground the space
- Console table and lamp: mix of thrifted and affordable finds creates a curated look
- Rug and accessories: layered textures and natural materials finish the vignette
Moral of the story: don’t dismiss items at the thrift store because of their color or finish. With a little primer, spray paint, and a delicate metallic highlight, a neglected piece can become a beautiful, budget-friendly focal point.
