Glass bottle painting is not only fun and simple but can also be low to no cost to create! With glass bottles being one of the top-selling (upcycled) items in my booth, I want to share how easy it is to create a unique look to get your glass bottles selling quickly!
In this post, you will find a step-by-step prep & paint process with tips to create durable long-lasting finishes on your glass projects.
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You can choose any glassware for this project
In my area, many older bottles are overstocked in thrift stores and antique malls, even though they are priced reasonably. I had a few vintage glass bottles for sale in my booth for only a few dollars and after several months, they didn’t sell. I decided to pull them out of my booth and home for a makeover.
After I tried the simple technique I will show you today, THEY SOLD! After they have a fresh look & are staged nicely, they sell {on average} within a week!
I recommend using “Google Image Search” or any app where you can research the value or rarity of the item before altering any vintage item.
I have applied this technique to empty jars, bottles, pitchers, and vases. The sky is the limit regarding all the different upcycle glassware ideas.
Supplies & materials for this glass bottle project
- Glass bottle
- Rubbing alcohol & lint-free cloth
- Primer (Gesso or Slick Stick) * I now use Bonding Boss by Dixie Belle
- Paint (chalk paint, mineral paint, enamel or acrylic)
- Ink pad & stamps (I used IOD products)
- Colored wax/Antique wax ( used DIY dark wax)
- Paintbrush
- Wax brush & a lint-free cloth
- Top Coat Sealer (Gator Hide by Dixie Belle or Spray Sealer)
- Embellishments of your choice (greenery, dried flowers, ribbons, charms, jute string, etc)
My next post will have photos with some of my past glass items that have sold &
13 transformation techniques for any type of glassware.
How to prepare glass for painting
You want your paint to adhere properly to your glass piece. Both cleaning and priming glass are important steps when creating a durable finish. Skipping this process will cause the paint not to adhere, peel, or chip. (Ask me how I know this, lol)
- Choose your glass piece
- Clean the glass piece with hot water & soap (remove label)
- Wipe the glass with a lint-free cloth & rubbing alcohol
- Apply a thin coat of primer allowing it to dry according to the brands’ instructions. After the first coat dries apply the next.
- While the primer is drying you can decide how you want your ink designs to go on your piece.
Steps for glass bottle painting
- Gather the materials & tools you will need to decorate your bottle.
- Apply two thin coats of paint (separately) and allow them to dry according to the brands’ instructions.
You can do a “wet distress” before the paint dries if you choose OR you can use fine grit (220) sandpaper after it dries to create texture & age - Apply ink stamps
- It’s time to age the paint by adding antique wax allowing it to sit on for a few minutes before wiping it back. You can apply clear wax first, to have better control of the darker wax.
- Apply two thin coats of sealer according to the brands’ instructions. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly ensuring you have complete coverage. I recommend using a water-repellent top coat that will offer greater protection, like Gator Hide from Dixie Belle.
- When your piece has fully dried it is ready to embellish & add a price tag!
Apply two coats of sealer/top coat according to the manufacturer’s instructions and allow your bottle to dry thoroughly. Weather & humidity may lengthen drying time.
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DIY Transfers – Create & Apply to Your Projects!
Thank you for joining me today! I hope you enjoyed this post & that it inspires you to transform a few glass bottles or jars.
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Shop This Post and My Favorite Products
- HP INKJET Printer (my HP model is no longer made but this is similar) – Basic, easy to use
- Reynold’s Freezer Paper – (for DIY transfers)
- Waterslide Decal Paper (for inkjet printer DIY transfer)
- No Spray Waterslide Decals – white matte – (for inkjet or laser) DIY Transfers
- Iron-On Transfers for light fabric (for inkjet printer) DIY Transfers
- Mod Podge (32 oz. matte)
- Gesso Surface Prep Medium (16-oz white)
- Wax & Chalkpaint Brush
“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.” Some links are affiliate links which I earn a small commission from at no extra cost to you
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