How To Make DIY Jadeite Ornaments
Can I say when I saw these ornaments, I was instantly obsessed. I cannot believe easy this project was, so let’s dive in to how to make DIY Jadeite ornaments.
Jadeite, with its stunning green hue and timeless appeal, has long been admired as a symbol of beauty and serenity. The popularity of jadeite ornaments continues to grow, but purchasing these pieces can be expensive.
The good news is that you can create your own DIY jadeite ornaments, adding a touch of elegance to your home decor without breaking the bank.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your very own jadeite-inspired ornaments. Get ready to unleash your creativity and bring a touch of natural beauty into your living space!
Some of our posts contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. Clicking on an affiliate link does not result in an additional charge for you, or cost you anything extra. Money earned via affiliate links helps pay to keep my site up and running. Thank you so much for shopping through our links to show your support, through the brands and products that we love.
Let’s start by saying, this was super easy, however I did learn a few things along the way that might make this a little easier for you the first go round.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To create DIY jadeite ornaments, you will need a few essential materials:
Supplies
Clear glass or Textured Plastic Ornaments: Look for round or uniquely shaped ornaments that can be easily painted and customized.
Acrylic paints: Choose a range of green shades that closely resemble the captivating color of jadeite I used Americana pistachio & Jadeite paint.
Paintbrushes: Opt for small and medium-sized brushes to ensure precision and control during painting.
Here is a breakdown of what you will need for this project, feel free to substitute brands and products as needed.
Step 2: Preparing the Ornaments
This step is important if you are using vintage ornaments.
Clean the clear ornaments thoroughly to remove any dust or residue. Ensure they are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Take your time to inspect each ornament for any imperfections, such as scratches or dents, and address them as needed.
Starting Your project
To begin your DIY jadeite ornament project, follow these steps to prepare your paint mixture for optimal coverage and a flawless finish.
Pour a small amount of paint
Start by pouring a small amount of your chosen paint color into a separate container or palette. This step allows you to control the amount of paint you’re working with and prevents waste.
Add water to thin the paint
To achieve better coverage and ensure the paint flows smoothly, add water to thin out the paint. Aim for a paint-to-water ratio of approximately 1/4 water to 3/4 paint. This ratio may vary depending on the consistency of your paint, so adjust accordingly.
Mix the paint and water thoroughly
Use a stirring stick or a small brush to thoroughly mix the paint and water together. Ensure that there are no lumps or clumps and that the mixture is smooth and consistent throughout.
Test the consistency
Before pouring the mixture into the ornament, perform a quick test. Dip a small brush into the mixture and let it flow off the brush. If it flows evenly without any clumping or excessive dripping, you have achieved the desired consistency.
Pour the thinned paint into the ornament
Carefully pour the thinned paint mixture into the ornament, taking care not to overflow or spill. Hold the ornament at an angle and rotate it gently to allow the paint to spread and cover the interior evenly. Make sure the entire surface is coated, including hard-to-reach areas.
Allow the paint to dry
Once the ornament is fully coated, set it aside in a safe place to dry. Follow the recommended drying time indicated on the paint’s packaging. Avoid touching or disturbing the ornament during the drying process to ensure a smooth finish.
By following these steps and achieving the right paint to water ratio, you can ensure optimal coverage and prevent any small spots that may appear if the paint is too thin.
With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create flawless DIY jadeite ornaments that exude beauty and elegance.
Remember, experimentation and learning from experience will help you refine your technique and achieve even better results with each project.
Enjoy the creative process and have fun bringing the captivating allure of jadeite to life in your own unique way!
Step 3: Painting the Ornaments
Once you have the paint somewhat watered down, you want to pour in into your ornament.
Pour the paint into the ornament
Carefully pour the thinned paint mixture into the ornament. Ensure that you have enough paint to cover the entire interior. Start with a light green shade to mimic the color of jadeite.
Swirl, rotate, and shake
Once the paint is inside the ornament, gently swirl it around to distribute the paint evenly. Rotate the ornament to ensure that all areas are covered.
To achieve optimal coverage, carefully shake the ornament, allowing the paint to reach the edges and corners. Be cautious not to shake too vigorously to prevent spills or splatters.
Ensure complete coverage
Thoroughly inspect the inside of the ornament to confirm that the paint has completely covered the surface. Use a gentle swirling motion or a brush to touch up any areas that may be missed.
Let the first coat dry
Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Follow the recommended drying time provided by the paint manufacturer. Patience is key to achieving a professional-looking finish.
Apply additional layers
Once the first coat is dry, you can apply additional layers of paint to enhance the depth of color. Repeat the process of swirling, rotating, and shaking, ensuring that each layer is even and fully dried before applying the next one.
Take your time for a professional finish
Be patient throughout the process to achieve a polished, high-quality result. Allow each layer of paint to dry completely before handling or adding subsequent layers. This will help prevent smudging or uneven application.
By following these steps and taking your time to ensure proper coverage and drying, you can create DIY jadeite ornaments with a professional-looking finish. Enjoy the creative process and marvel at the beauty of your homemade jadeite-inspired decor.
Pouring Out Excess Paint and Saving for Future Use
To avoid wastage and make the most of your paint, follow these steps for pouring out the excess paint and preserving it for future ornament projects.
Prepare a small bowl
Get a small bowl ready to collect the excess paint. This will help you easily transfer the leftover paint back into the bottle, preventing unnecessary waste.
Pour the excess paint
Carefully pour out the excess paint from the ornament into the small bowl. Take your time to ensure a steady and controlled pour, minimizing spills or splatters.
Save the paint for later use
Once the excess paint is in the bowl, you can use a small spoon or a funnel to transfer it back into the original paint bottle. This way, you can preserve the leftover paint for future projects or touch-ups on other ornaments.
Keep it sealed
Make sure to tightly seal the paint bottle after transferring the excess paint. This will prevent drying or contamination, ensuring the paint remains usable and fresh for your next DIY jadeite ornament endeavor.
By pouring out the excess paint and saving it for future use, you can make the most out of your materials and avoid unnecessary waste. This method allows you to maintain a consistent color palette across multiple ornaments while maximizing the longevity of your paint supply.
Now you’re ready to continue creating beautiful jadeite-inspired ornaments, knowing that you have the option to reuse and repurpose your paint as you progress through your crafting journey.
Dripping Out Excess Paint and Ensuring Proper Drying
To achieve optimal results, follow these steps to allow excess paint to drip out and ensure thorough drying overnight. Additionally, we’ll address the issue of thin paint and its potential effect on the final look of your DIY jadeite ornaments.
Utilize paper or plastic cups
Use small paper or plastic cups to assist with the dripping process. Place the ornament upside down in the cup, allowing any excess paint to drip out slowly. This will help avoid pooling or uneven coverage on the surface of the ornament.
Adaptation for oversized cups
If the plastic cups you have are too big for your ornaments, you can improvise by flipping the cups over and cutting small holes in them. This makeshift solution will still serve the purpose of catching excess paint as it drips out.
Ensure thorough drying overnight
After pouring out the excess paint and placing the ornament in the cup, allow it to dry completely overnight. This extended drying period ensures that the paint sets properly and any remaining moisture evaporates, resulting in a durable finish.
Addressing thin paint
If you notice that your paint is too thin during the DIY process, it may lead to small cracks or imperfections in the dried paint. Although unintended, these cracks can contribute to a vintage appearance, adding character to your jadeite ornaments.
emember that personal preferences for the final look of your ornaments may vary. Some individuals appreciate the vintage aesthetic that can be achieved with thin paint, while others prefer a smoother and more even finish. Embrace the unique qualities that arise from thin paint, as they contribute to the charm and character of your DIY jadeite ornaments.
By allowing excess paint to drip out, ensuring proper drying overnight, and embracing the vintage look that can result from thin paint, you can create stunning jadeite-inspired ornaments that possess an appealing, aged appeal.
Painting the Ornament Toppers: Hand-Painting vs. Spray Painting
When it comes to painting the ornament toppers, you have the option of hand-painting with acrylic paint or using spray paint. Let’s explore the advantages and considerations of each method.
Hand-painting with acrylic paint
Hand-painting the ornament toppers using actual chic paint can provide a personalized touch and allow for intricate designs. However, keep in mind that hand-painting may require multiple coats to achieve full coverage. This method requires patience and attention to detail.
Spray painting for efficient coverage
On the other hand, utilizing spray paint for the ornament toppers can offer a faster and easier alternative. Spray paint provides excellent coverage in a short amount of time, saving you from applying multiple coats manually. The spray application ensures a smooth and even finish, enhancing the overall appearance of the ornament topper.
Consider your preferences, time constraints, and desired level of intricacy when deciding between hand-painting and spray painting. Both methods have their advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal style and convenience.
By exploring different painting techniques for the ornament toppers, you can achieve the desired look for your DIY jadeite ornaments more efficiently and effectively.
Remember, the key to a successful DIY project lies in experimentation and finding the method that suits your needs best.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own DIY jadeite ornaments is not only a fulfilling and creative endeavor, but it also allows you to add a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your home decor.
With just a few materials and some imagination, you can craft unique and personalized pieces that capture the allure of jadeite. Remember to gather your materials, shape and sculpt the clay, bake it to perfection, and add the finishing touches with paint and varnish.
The end result will be a collection of stunning jadeite-inspired ornaments that showcase your creativity and style.
So why wait? Unleash your artistic abilities and embark on this exciting DIY project to create exquisite jadeite ornaments that will transform your living space into a haven of beauty and sophistication.
I hope you enjoyed how to make DIY Jadeite ornaments. Let me know if you make these! Be sure to check out our Pottery Barn dupe Christmas wreath.
I would love for you to follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and Facebook! You can also join our email list so you don’t miss any fun blog posts or designing spaces.
