DIY Glitter Ornaments: Add Sparkle to Your Holiday Season
Transform ordinary plastic animals into dazzling glitter ornaments! This easy and fun DIY project is perfect for adding a touch of sparkle and personality to your Christmas tree. Inspired by a quirky dream, this tutorial will guide you through creating unique and eye-catching ornaments that are sure to be a conversation starter.
The idea for these glittery creations stemmed from a rather unusual source – a dream! The specifics aren’t important, but the result was a sudden, compelling urge to search for a “sparkly glitter platypus ornament.” Unfortunately, the internet yielded no such treasure.
Realizing the world was lacking in glittery platypus ornaments, the only logical solution was to make one myself! After some brainstorming, the decision was made to embark on a crafting adventure.
The initial thoughts involved stencils or painting glitter directly onto a bulb. However, neither option seemed quite right. A trip to the craft store proved to be serendipitous, revealing a delightful selection of plastic animals – a platypus, shark, rhino, pig, octopus, and even a stegosaurus! It was a Christmas miracle!
Materials You’ll Need to Create Your Glitter Ornaments
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make your own stunning glitter ornaments:
- Plastic Animals: Visit your local toy or craft store. Look for a variety of shapes and sizes to add visual interest to your tree. Discount stores are also a great source for inexpensive plastic toys.
- Small Screw Eyelets: These will allow you to hang your ornaments. Choose a size appropriate for the size of your plastic animals.
- Electric Drill and Small Drill Bits: For creating a pilot hole for the screw eyelets. Use a range of drill bit sizes to ensure a snug fit.
- Colored Spray Paint (Primer Included): A base coat of color will enhance the glitter’s vibrancy. Opt for a paint and primer in one for better adhesion, especially on smooth plastic surfaces.
- Glitter Spray Paint: The star of the show! Choose a variety of colors to create different looks. Krylon Glitterblast is a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
- Clear Sealer Spray: This is crucial for preventing glitter fallout. Apply a generous coat to lock in the sparkle.
- String, Embroidery Floss, or Ornament Hooks: For hanging your finished ornaments. Choose a material that complements the colors of your ornaments.
- Soap and Water: For cleaning the plastic animals before painting.
- Protective Gear: Wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated area when using spray paint.
- Drop Cloth or Newspaper: To protect your work surface from paint and glitter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Glitter Ornaments
Follow these simple steps to create your own dazzling glitter ornaments:
- Clean the Plastic Animals: Remove any tags or stickers and wash the plastic animals with soap and water. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly. Dry them thoroughly before proceeding.
- Drill a Pilot Hole: Using an electric drill and a small drill bit, carefully drill a pilot hole into the back (or head, depending on the animal’s shape) of your creature. Make sure the hole is slightly smaller than the screw eyelet. Aim for the center of the piece’s weight to ensure it hangs evenly.
- Insert the Screw Eyelet: Gently screw the eyelet into the pilot hole, turning the animal onto the threads. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could crack the plastic.
- Apply the Base Coat: Hang the animal from the eyelet using monofilament or fishing line. Apply a solid base coat of colored primer or paint. This will provide a vibrant background for the glitter. Let it dry completely.
- Add the Glitter: Shake the glitter spray paint can for at least two minutes to ensure even distribution. Use short, controlled bursts to apply the glitter to the entire animal – back, front, and belly. Apply multiple light coats rather than one thick coat to prevent drips.
- Seal the Glitter: Once the glitter is dry, apply a generous coat of clear sealer spray. This will lock in the glitter and prevent it from shedding onto your Christmas tree. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Attach Hanging String or Hook: Thread string, embroidery floss, or an ornament hook through the eyelet to hang your beautiful glitter ornament on your tree!
And there you have it! Your dream of owning a glittery platypus ornament (or any other glitter-covered creature) has come true! These ornaments are a fun and festive way to add a personal touch to your holiday decorations.
This holiday season, embrace your creativity and spread some glittery cheer!
Happy Glitterdays!
Got your own awesome DIY holiday project using spray paint? Show us!
Looking for More Holiday DIY Projects and Ideas?
If you’re looking for more creative holiday projects, check out these ideas:
