How to Make a Wine Barrel Water Fountain Out of Terra Cotta Pots

A wooden wine barrel exudes the essence of historical wine-making practices. Throughout history, winemakers have aged their wines in these classic containers. DIY enthusiasts and other creative types have found many ways to reclaim and reuse old wine barrels. Half barrels, for example, make unique vessels for outdoor fountains. When unable to find a wine barrel to make a fountain, transform a large terra cotta pot instead. With a little paint, a terracotta pot can look just like a half wine barrel.

Bricks
Submersible pond pump
Plumber's putty
Silicon caulk
Paint
Paintbrushes
Sealer
Rocks
Fountain head

Instructions

- 1
  Wash any detritus from the pot. Allow the pot to dry.
- 2
  Set the pot on three or four bricks to elevate it slightly. Thread the submersible pump power cord through the drain hole. Plug the drain hole around the cord. Stuff the hole with a wad of plumber’s putty. Extrude a bead of silicone around the plumber’s putty and around the cord to seal the seams.
- 3
  Paint the pot to mimic the look of a wine barrel using outdoor water-based paint. Include vertical, brown planks and horizontal black bands.
- 4
  Wait for the paint and caulk to dry. Paint the pot inside and out with a clear waterproofing sealer intended for outdoor use. Allow the sealer to dry.
- 5
  Fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of rocks. Place a submersible pond pump on top of the rock. Connect the water outlet tube to a rigid fountain head. Use a fountain head tall enough to extend past the intended water line. Add more rocks if necessary to elevate or stabilize the fountain head.
- 6
  Fill the pot with water and plug in the pump to start the fountain.

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