How to paint on glass: Fun crafting ideas for rainy days at home or to do with the kids
23 December 2020, 11:26 | Updated: 23 December 2020, 12:29
Easy tutorial for how to decorate a wine glass with stencils and markers
The chances are you have some empty glass jars or old glasses you don't use very often - why not jazz them up? It's easier than you'd think...
Looking for a fun and relaxing craft project to keep you busy during the slow days between Christmas and New Year?
Why not try letting your imagination loose on a glass, or old cleaned out jar?
Colouring in and drawing both have proven benefits for boosting well-being, and are proven mindfulness techniques.
Non-alcoholic sparkling drink brand Shloer, which is created from a blend of the finest real grape juices, asked Instagram craft experts Tea and Crafting to put together a simple tutorial to teach Heart.co.uk readers the basics, and we have some more ideas below...
Get the right kit
Decide if you want to make a permanent design, or if you want to wash it off your jar or glass at the end.
Then decide on what is easiest for you to use. Glass pens are akin to a permanent marker, while paints need more of a steady hand, and a bit more patience.
Both are easily available, and Hobbycraft stocks a huge selection, as well as special 'outliners' for if you choose to trace the outside of your design.
Wipe off
In the video they use a small alcohol wipe to remove any grease and grime from the surface so it doesn't affect the paint or ink going on to the glass.
You could also use vodka on a piece of cotton wool or old rag if you don't have any wipes to hand.
Read more: How to make a colourful memory stone snake
Be adventurous with your stencils
The video above focuses on Christmas designs, but you can really use anything as a basis for an idea.
If you enjoy colouring books, why not use a page from there to use as a template for a design.
Or print off a geometric or more adventurous pattern to colour in through the glass.
If a jar or glass isn't a big enough canvas for you, then why not use the window (perhaps check you are using wash-off ink here!)
Read more: Stacey Solomon announces she is releasing a book about crafting
Share your creations!
A hand-designed glass makes for an inexpensive and thoughtful gift (especially if it is personalised).
Similarly, post pictures of your upcycled glass on social media - you never know who you might inspire.