How To Glitter The Inside Of An Ornament

Choosing the Right Type of Ornament

When it comes to glittering the inside of an ornament, selecting the right type of ornament is essential. Not all ornaments are suitable for this technique, so it’s important to choose ones that are specifically designed to be opened and filled. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the perfect ornament:

Material: Opt for glass or plastic ornaments, as they are easier to work with compared to other materials like ceramic or metal. Both glass and plastic ornaments have a smooth surface that allows the glitter to adhere properly.
Size and Shape: Consider the size and shape of the ornament based on your desired glittering effect. Round or spherical ornaments are the most commonly used and provide a great surface area for the glitter to spread out. However, you can also experiment with other shapes like tear-drop or icicle ornaments for a unique look.
Accessibility: Make sure the ornament has a removable top or opening that allows you to easily access the inside. This opening will also serve as the entry point for the glitter and any other decorative elements you may want to include.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, choose ornaments that align with your personal style and the overall theme or color scheme you intend to achieve. Consider if you want clear ornaments to showcase the glitter more prominently or colored ones for a vibrant sparkle.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to choose the perfect ornaments that will be ideal for glittering the inside. Remember to handle the ornaments with care to avoid any accidental cracks or breakage, ensuring a successful and visually appealing glittering process.

Preparing the Inside of the Ornament

Before you dive into the glittering process, it’s important to properly prepare the inside of the ornament to ensure the glitter adheres smoothly and evenly. Follow these steps to prepare the inside of the ornament:

Clean the Ornament: Start by cleaning the inside of the ornament using a gentle glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol. This will remove any dirt, dust, or fingerprints that might prevent the glitter from sticking properly.
Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure the inside of the ornament is completely dry. Use a lint-free cloth or let it air dry for a few minutes to ensure there is no moisture left.
Remove the Ornament Top: If your ornament has a removable top, carefully take it off to create an opening for filling the ornament with glitter. Hold onto the top, as you will need it later in the process.
Protect the Outside: To prevent any accidental spills or smudging of glitter on the outside of the ornament, cover the opening with a piece of tape or place a small piece of paper towel inside.

Once you have completed these steps, your ornament will be properly prepped and ready for the glittering process. Ensuring a clean and dry interior will provide a smooth surface for the glitter and help it adhere more effectively, resulting in a stunning and professional-looking finished ornament.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin glittering the inside of your ornament, it’s essential to gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything at hand will ensure a smooth and uninterrupted crafting process. Here are the key supplies you’ll need:

Glitter: Choose your preferred color(s) and type of glitter. Fine glitter provides a subtle and even sparkle, while chunky glitter creates a more textured and dramatic effect. Experiment with different colors and sizes to achieve your desired look.
Ornament: Select the ornament(s) you’ve chosen for this project, making sure they meet the criteria described in the “Choosing the Right Type of Ornament” section. Have a few extras on hand in case of any mishaps.
Glue or Adhesive: To secure the glitter inside the ornament, you’ll need an adhesive. Clear-drying glue or spray adhesive works well for this purpose. Ensure it is compatible with both the glitter and the ornament material.
Paintbrush or Small Funnel: Depending on the size of the ornament opening, you’ll need a tool to help you apply the adhesive and pour the glitter inside. A small paintbrush or plastic funnel can make this process much easier and less messy.
Protective Surface: Cover your workspace with a protective layer, such as paper or a plastic tablecloth, to catch any glitter spills and make clean-up a breeze.

It’s important to have all these supplies within arm’s reach, ensuring a smooth and efficient glittering process. Having everything prepared and organized beforehand will make the crafting experience more enjoyable and help you create beautifully glittered ornaments with ease.

Applying the Glitter

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to apply the glitter to the inside of your ornament. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect shimmer:

Apply Adhesive: Using a paintbrush or a small funnel, apply a thin layer of adhesive to the inside of the ornament. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly. Be careful not to use too much adhesive as it can cause the glitter to clump or become uneven.
Add the Glitter: With the adhesive still wet, carefully pour the glitter into the ornament through the opening. Tilt and rotate the ornament to allow the glitter to coat the entire interior surface. Continue adding more glitter until you achieve the desired coverage and sparkle.
Distribute the Glitter: Gently tap the ornament against your hand or a soft surface to help distribute the glitter and fill any empty spaces. This will ensure an even and seamless finish.
Empty the Excess: Once you’re satisfied with the glitter coverage, carefully pour out any excess glitter from the ornament. You can collect the excess and return it to the glitter container for future use.

Throughout this process, remember to handle the ornament with care to avoid smudging the adhesive or causing the glitter to clump. Working in a well-lit area can also help you see any areas that may need additional glitter or touch-ups.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve a beautifully glittered interior that will catch the light and add a touch of sparkle to your ornament. The next step is to seal the glitter inside the ornament to ensure it lasts for years to come.

Creating Different Effects with Glitter

Glittering the inside of an ornament offers endless possibilities for creating unique and eye-catching effects. Here are a few ideas to help you unleash your creativity:

Single Color Elegance: For a classic and elegant look, choose a single color of fine glitter and evenly coat the inside of the ornament. This creates a subtle and sophisticated shimmer that is perfect for any occasion.
Mixed Color Magic: Mix different colors of glitter together for a vibrant and playful effect. Combine complementary colors for a harmonious blend or experiment with contrasting colors for a bold and eye-catching ornament.
Ombre Beauty: Create a stunning ombre effect by using different shades of the same color glitter. Start with a darker shade at the bottom and gradually transition to a lighter shade towards the top of the ornament.
Glamorous Gradient: Apply a base color of fine glitter and then add a layer of chunky glitter in a contrasting color on top. This will provide a visually striking texture and a touch of glamour.
Sparkling Stripes: Use painter’s tape to create stripes on the inside of the ornament. Apply adhesive and glitter to each stripe, alternating colors for a striped effect. Once the glitter is dry, remove the tape to reveal the beautiful pattern.
Festive Focal Points: Add small, decorative accents inside the ornament along with the glitter. This could include tiny beads, sequins, or even miniature figurines that match the theme or add a unique touch to your design.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to inspire you. Feel free to experiment and combine different techniques to create your own signature glittered ornament designs. Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the process of crafting personalized and stunning decorations that will bring joy and sparkle to your holiday celebrations or any special occasion.

Sealing the Glitter Inside the Ornament

After you’ve achieved the desired glitter effect on the inside of the ornament, it’s important to seal it to ensure the glitter stays in place and doesn’t shed over time. Follow these steps to seal the glitter inside the ornament:

Replace the Ornament Top: If your ornament has a removable top, carefully place it back onto the ornament. Ensure it is secure to prevent any accidental openings that may cause the glitter to spill out.
Check for Any Loose Glitter: Inspect the exterior of the ornament for any loose or excess glitter. If you notice any, gently tap or shake the ornament to remove it.
Apply a Sealant: To secure the glitter in place, apply a clear sealant over the inside of the ornament. Use a small paintbrush or a spray sealant and evenly coat the entire interior surface. This will help to minimize glitter fallout and preserve the glittered effect.
Dry Completely: Allow the sealant to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may take a few hours or overnight, depending on the product used. Avoid handling the ornament until the sealant is fully dry to prevent smudging or smearing.

By sealing the glitter inside the ornament, you’ll ensure its longevity and prevent any unwanted glitter transfer. The sealed glitter will stay in place, maintaining the vibrant and sparkly appearance of your ornament for years to come.

Once the sealant is dry, you can move on to the next step of decorating the outside of the ornament to further enhance its visual appeal.

Decorating the Outside of the Ornament

Once you have glittered the inside of your ornament, you can take the decoration a step further by embellishing the outside. This will add an extra touch of personalization and make your ornament truly unique. Here are some ideas for decorating the outside of your glittered ornament:

Ribbon or Bow: Tie a festive ribbon or bow around the top of the ornament. Choose a ribbon that complements the colors of the glitter or matches your overall decoration theme.
Personalized Tags: Attach a small personalized tag to the ornament using a decorative string or twine. You can write the recipient’s name, the year, or a special message to make it more meaningful.
Paint and Designs: Use acrylic paint to add designs, patterns, or even hand-painted details to the exterior of the ornament. This allows you to incorporate symbols, images, or motifs that are significant to you or the occasion.
Glitter accents: Apply a thin layer of glue or adhesive to specific areas on the outside of the ornament and sprinkle matching or contrasting glitter onto those spots. This will create a visually stunning contrast and enhance the overall sparkle.
Personalized Decals: Apply custom-made decals or stickers to the outside of the ornament. These can include initials, monograms, or personalized messages that reflect your own style or commemorate a special event.
Embellishments: Add decorative elements such as small beads, sequins, or charms to the ornament. Affix them with a strong adhesive, ensuring they are securely attached for long-lasting enjoyment.

The options for decorating the outside of your glittered ornament are endless. You can get as creative as you like and tailor the decoration to suit your personal taste or the occasion you are celebrating.

Remember to let any paint or glue dry completely before handling or hanging the ornament to avoid smudging or damaging the decorations. Once your ornament is fully decorated, it’s time to display it and enjoy the gorgeous glitter and personalized touches you have added!

Displaying Your Glittered Ornaments

Once you have completed the glittering and decorating process, it’s time to showcase your beautiful creations. Here are some ideas for displaying your glittered ornaments:

Christmas Tree: Hang your glittered ornaments on the branches of your Christmas tree. Arrange them evenly and strategically to create a balanced and visually appealing display.
Ornament Stand: Place individual glittered ornaments on ornament stands or mini easels. This allows you to display them on tabletops, shelves, or mantlepieces, serving as standalone decorative pieces.
Wreaths and Garlands: Incorporate your glittered ornaments into a wreath or garland display. Hang them along with other decorative elements for a festive and eye-catching arrangement.
Window Decor: String a ribbon or twine through the ornament’s top and hang it in front of a window. This allows the glitter and light to interact, creating a sparkling effect for all to see.
Centerpiece Display: Create a centerpiece display using a decorative tray, mirror, or cake stand. Arrange your glittered ornaments along with other festive elements, such as pinecones or candles, to create an elegant and festive centerpiece for your dining or coffee table.
Gift Toppers: Attach your glittered ornaments to gift boxes or bags using ribbon or twine. This adds a personalized touch and serves as an additional gift decoration.

Remember to consider the overall theme of your space or the occasion you are celebrating when selecting the display method. You can also mix and match different display options to create a dynamic and visually interesting arrangement.

Keep in mind that glittered ornaments are delicate, so handle them with care when moving or storing them. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or areas with excessive heat, as this may cause the glitter to fade or the ornaments to become damaged.

By displaying your glittered ornaments in creative and strategic ways, you’ll be able to enjoy their shimmer and beauty, spreading holiday cheer or adding a touch of sparkle to your everyday decor.