DOLLAR STORE BEAUTY: BEAUTIFUL ALCOHOL INK GLASSES by LUCY AKINS

DOLLAR STORE HACK: BEAUTIFUL ALCOHOL INK GLASSES 

                                                                             by LUCY AKINS

The technique of watercolor dates back to ancient times, used to decorate manuscripts, color maps, create miniature portraits, and even to study nature. Yet it is currently a hot trend in today’s design community. I’ve seen it on stationary, fabric, and many other design elements. So why not bring it to your table?

Acquiring the ‘look’ of watercolor on ceramic is easy to do, using alcohol inks. They are solid based dyes that can be used on non-porous materials, like plastic, glass, and metal. They come in an array of vibrant colors and are readily available at craft stores or online. By diluting the alcohol inks with either drugstore rubbing alcohol or specially formulated ink extenders, you create the illusion of softly blended watercolor paint.

These are not only easy to make, but also very cost effective as we transformed simple dollar store items into gorgeous high-end looking pieces.

See how you can use this method on mugs, drinking glasses, and even wine glasses.

Supplies:

• Ceramic mug, drinking glass, wine glass
• 90% alcohol (or rubbing alcohol)
• Cotton
• Paint brush
• Alcohol inks
• Sealant (we used dishwasher-safe Mod Podge)

Ceramic Mug

Directions:

Step 1: Wash and dry your mug, and then wipe thoroughly with alcohol.

Step 2: Dip brush in alcohol and brush over mug.

Step 3: Dip separate brush into alcohol ink and brush onto mug. It’s very important to work quickly, prior to the alcohol drying.

Step 4: “Spread” ink by gently blowing through a straw.

Continue spreading ink until desired effect is achieved.

Step 5: Allow ink to dry and if satisfied with the end result, apply a coat of dishwasher-safe sealant (I used Mod Podge).

Click here for more idea's using the same method...

Click here if you want to link to our Pinterest for more awesome idea's...