Tabletop tiki torch

Step 1
Using the masking tape, mask off around the top of the pot.

Step 2
Prime with Resene Quick Dry Waterborne Primer Undercoat. Remember to go over the edge and into the inside of the pot.

Step 3
Paint with your favourite Resene colour. I have chosen Resene Bowie to contrast with the colour of the terracotta. Once painted, remove the masking tape.

Step 4
If you can’t find the tiki torch cannisters, you can remove one from a tiki torch bamboo stake using a utility knife, and keep the bamboo for another garden project. This project also presents an opportunity to repurpose old weathered tiki torch stakes, by removing the oil cannister and making a tabletop version instead.

Step 5
Fill the cannister to three-quarters full with oil. I used citronella to help keep the mosquitoes and bugs away.

Step 6
Wash the decorative stones if required. Fill with the bottom of the terracotta pot with enough stones for the oil cannister to sit level with the top of the pot. Carefully place the cannister on the centre of the stones. The top of the cannister should be above the line of the top of the pot.

Step 7
Fill around the edges with the decorative stones. Your tabletop tiki torch is now ready to place in your garden or outdoor entertainment area.

Step 8
A close-up of the finished torch project (unlit).