Table centrepieces can be really pricey, but they don’t need to be. This easy project will only set you back the cost of a latte but is a really effective way to pull some colour into your tablescape. Here’s how:
You will need:
- Clean glass jars in various shapes and sizes
- Paint (I recommend 2-3 colours plus white)
- Paintbrush
- Spare jar/tub for paint
1. Soak your jars in warm soapy water to soften labels.
2. Remove labels and residue; allow jars to dry.
3. Squirt some paint into your spare container and mix with water (you don’t want it too thick or it won’t spread but too thin and you won’t get good coverage; aim for the consistency of pouring cream).
4. Pour some paint into a jar.
5. Slowly tip up the jar and rotate so that the paint covers the inside of the jar.
6. Wipe off any drips that have formed on the outer rim. Allow to dry thoroughly.
I recommend starting with a straight colour of paint, then gradually add in more white so that you get various shades of each colour. This will achieve a beautiful layered look without having to purchase many different paints.
Flowers by Lotus Flowers | Stationery by Akimbo
Ms Gingham says: Oh now I get it! You only paint the inside of the jars! That makes sense because you retain the beautiful smooth gloss of the glass on the outside! Very clever and simple too.
I am Alicia Parsons, the Atypical Type A. I live in Adelaide, South Australia in a modest townhouse with my new hubby Ryan (aka The Man). I am the owner and graphic designer behind Akimbo, which specialises in quirky invitations, announcements and greetings.
Alicia contributes regular DIY projects to Polka Dot Made. You can view her posts here.
This is genius! I would have never thought to paint the inside!! I am totally doing this. Thanks!
Glad you like it Jenny. Yep, painting the inside means you still get the smooth glassy finish on the outside.
Those are sweet 🙂
I just did this before I saw your post but I used straight color poured into a jar and left upside down overnight to drain. Question, you of course aren’t pouring water and fresh flowers into the jars, right?
Yup, I did just pop the water and fresh flowers in once it was completely dry. I used acrylic paint and didn’t have any problems but enamel paint would be a safer bet.
If you’ve already used acrylic and are concerned about the colour coming off, try coating with a layer of oil-based clear varnish.
you completely answered my question about mixing it with some water because i tried just the paint and o man did it take forever to drip down, but i will def. try this way i cleared out some new jars 😉