If you decide to create a ribbon handle, you'll need to drill holes in to the terra-cotta. Wearing safety goggles, drill two holes, one on each side of the pot, about 1/2 inch from the edge of the rim. As you drill, use light pressure to prevent the pot from cracking. Dust away powder.

Use brush to cover the entire pot with black paint and allow to dry, apply second coat if necessary, allow to dry once more. After the paint has dried, attach ribbon, cut along the edge forming a needle.

Insert ribbon into the first hole; bring enough through to tie a large knot at the end.

Repeat the process on the other side of the pot. Adjust ribbon as needed. On larger, heavier pots ribbon is only ornamental. If unsure about using the ribbon as a handle, carry from the bottom.

Next use tissue paint to "fake fill" the bottom of the pot - this is important if you don't plan to fill the entire pot with candy.

Fill with paper to desired height and add chocolate coins.

Happy St. Patrick's Day.