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DIY alcohol ink ornaments are a simple way to give clear glass decorations a colorful, translucent finish. The ink creates a look reminiscent of tinted blown glass, with vibrant jewel tones and a subtle shine. This method takes a little practice, but coating the ornament with rubbing alcohol first helps the color spread over the curved surface.
Supplies for DIY Alcohol Ink Ornaments
Gather your materials before you begin so you can work efficiently while applying the ink:
- Alcohol inks in several colors
- Clear glass ornaments
- Rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle
- Rubber gloves
- A plastic or foil sheet to protect your work surface
Glass ornaments are fragile, so handle them carefully and work over a protected surface. Use alcohol ink and rubbing alcohol in a well-ventilated area, keep them away from flames or other heat sources, and follow the product labels.
How to Make Alcohol Ink Ornaments
1. Prepare the ornament
Remove the metal cap from the ornament. Spray the glass with rubbing alcohol, then gently rub it around the ornament so the surface is coated. Wear rubber gloves to help keep ink off your hands.
2. Apply the alcohol ink
Turn the ornament upside down over the protected work surface. Squirt ink in a circular motion across the top, using enough for it to flow down the sides and cover the glass. Excess ink will collect on the plastic or foil beneath the ornament.
Check the ornament for uncovered areas. If you see blank spots, add another squirt of ink at the top and let it run down the sides. Adding a little at a time makes it easier to see where the color needs more coverage.
3. Let it dry
Leave the ornament to dry overnight. Once it is dry, replace the cap and hang it up. Avoid handling the colored glass until it has had time to dry completely.
Try Solid and Multicolored Designs
Solid-color ornaments are a straightforward place to start and create a strong, even look. After trying a few, experiment with using different inks on one ornament. Multicolored results can vary, so apply the shades gradually and decide whether you prefer blended colors or a simpler single-color finish.
Choose a palette that suits your tree or other seasonal display. Jewel tones stand out especially well against a white tree, while a coordinated set of shades can create a more unified look. For a polished display, consider repeating the same colors across several ornaments.
Finishing Your DIY Alcohol Ink Ornaments
These DIY alcohol ink ornaments offer a way to customize clear glass baubles with rich, transparent color. Start with one shade to learn how the ink flows, then try additional colors if you want a more varied design. Let each ornament dry overnight before replacing its cap, and handle the finished glass decorations gently when hanging or storing them.
—Kara
