How to Stain Jars

Stain jars of different sizes for varied looks.

Stained glass or plastic jars make pretty decorations on their own or can be utilized to store small items or dry food. They can also be given as gifts. Such jars can be made with or without designs, such as a fish swimming in an ocean or flowers in a field. Whether or not you choose to add a design to the jar, glass paint is your best bet for easy jar staining. You can either make or buy the glass paint.

Things You'll Need

• Craft books (optional)
• Washable marker (optional)
• Cotton swab (optional)
• Puffy paint
• Commercial or homemade glass paint
• Paintbrush
• Palette

Instructions

1. Ask friends and family for any unusual-shaped plastic or glass jars they may be recycling. Thoroughly wash and dry your glass or plastic jars before staining. Look through craft books for patterns or designs you find interesting.

2. Practice designs on your jars with washable markers. You can wash these off with a cotton swab. Use puffy paint -- also called 3D paint -- to draw the outline of your chosen design on the outside of the jar. Allow all outlines to dry completely.

3. Stain your jars using glass paint. Paint between all outlines of your design. Combine liquid or white glue with a few drops of food coloring to create homemade stain. Paint over any "bubbles" that appear if you are using the homemade recipe.

4. Allow the jar to dry. Keep in mind that the homemade paint recipe is water-based and will therefore need to be kept away from sources of moisture to dry thoroughly. Display your jar as desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your stained jars as candle holders, pencil holders or flower vases.

• Make homemade puffy paint by combining two parts white glue with one part acrylic paint in a small squeeze bottle. Mix with a stick or small spoon.

References

• First Palette: Stained Glass Jars

Resources

• ArtistsHelpingChildren.org: Stained Glass Crafts For Kids