How to Repair a Clay Pot With a Belt to Tighten a Crack

Repairing the cracks in clay pots is a temporary fix that will help the pots stay together for one or more additional years. The caulk inside the cracks will also help keep the pots waterproof, so that water does not escape through the cracks. Most pots are repaired by filling the crack and applying pressure around the pot with a wire or other object. You can use a belt if you do not have the appropriate wire to hold the pot in place while the caulk dries.

Things You'll Need

• Wood shims
• Waterproof silicone caulk
• Soft cloth
• Stiff belt
• Razor blade

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Clean out the inside of the pot to remove all dirt and plant matter. Allow the pot to dry overnight.

   • 2

     Open the cracks carefully, by inserting a thin shim into the crack.

   • 3

     Fill the crack with waterproof silicone caulk. Remove the shim. Remove any excess caulk with a damp cloth.

   • 4

     Tie a belt around the circumference of the pot after filling all cracks. Tighten the belt as much as possible to fuse the crack together. Allow the caulk to dry for 24 hours.

   • 5

     Scrape off any remaining caulk from outside the cracks with a razor blade. Remove the belt.