Today, I have a fun project that most anyone can do utilizing a sort of “gold mine” if you will. Have you ever been to a garage sale or seen those dreaded collections of thrift store glass vases and dishes? They are aching to pawn off that cheap glassware left over from a wedding or a recent bouquet. We’ve all been there, right?
Let me show you how to create some gorgeous decor and make use of those unwanteds by using paint. Here is what I chose on my latest thrift store run only spending around $5 for the entire lot. (You can even find some for free at garage sales too.) To start, I picked a collection of varying sizes and different designs – that will help make this project unique. Don’t be afraid to grab bowls, candy dishes, and even plates to mix it up.
First, give each piece a good cleaning with hot soapy water and let dry completely. The, once dry, you will need isopropyl rubbing alcohol and a couple cotton balls to wipe down any surface you want to paint. This gives the glass a prepped surface to start.
NEXT STEPS
It should only take a minute or two for that to dry and then you’re ready to paint! One of my new-found loves is Rust-Oleum’s new collection of matte finish spray paints. For this project, I choose the Robin’s Egg Blue. Isn’t it pretty?
Last, start by holding the can upright and level with your glass. Begin to spray before you hit the glass, and continue past – this will prevent an uneven coat.
When spraying, pretend you’re working like a clock, and you want to hit every hour. I’m saying this because you want every angle to get the same even coating and by overlapping slightly and turning yourself every angle will give you an nice even finish.
Here is my set after only one coat…
You can even spray the inside if you like, but I don’t feel it is necessary. Also, let the first coat dry for about an hour or so, depending on your temperature and humidity. Give it a second coat and let cure for about 4 hours or overnight for best results. In addition, you can clean these, if need be, with warm soapy water and a gentle touch. They should last for a while and can be touched up if chipped or let it ride as time-worn distressing.
THE REVEAL
When you’re done, you will have an awesome coordinating set that you can use to display collections, floral arrangements, and even hosting a party.
Isn’t that soft color absolutely beautiful? Not bad for some cast-off glassware – a gold mine of unwanted decor.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this DIY project, and please feel free to ask any questions. Happy thrift store glass hunting!
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In addition, more thrifted makeovers like this thrift store glass DIY:
Just love what you do with everyone’s ‘junk’! Really shows your creativity AND what we all could do instead of just buy buy buy. Be blessed and continue to show us what we can do.
Thank you so much, Dina! I tell me kids that even if I were monetarily rich, I would still be doing what I’m doing. It’s too much fun and makes sense! 😀
left a message on your guest blog – i cannot see a link to show me what you did with the thrift store glass……
Thank you, Gwen, did the links in the post not work?
Oh I love Field Trips and just got back from checking you out on Best Laminate. I report back that Larissa Girl – you just showed us how to make our own vintage Milk Glass! Most people think of it in white only but it came colored too. Check it out and you will see how similar particularly the textured pieces are of the vintage Milk Glass – you just never cease to amaze me! https://www.google.ca/search?q=colored+milk+glass&rls=com.microsoft:en-US:IE-Address&rlz=1I7ACGW_enCA408CA408&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0CCoQ7AlqFQoTCPvcnNaBgccCFYg5PgodrdUHgQ&biw=1366&bih=597
Yes! Milk glass is one of my favorites in all colors – so versatile and easy to style. Thanks for the fun read!
So cute! Now I have to rethink the box of junk I was about to donate ! Did you mix your own paint color? I really love the softness of the aqua.
Thanks, Karen! Yes, there’s so much we can do with what we already have, isn’t there? The details on the paint I used and the process are over on my guest post at Best Laminate. If you click the link, you can see it all there. 😉
Am curious…how do you clean the vases once the flowers have wilted? Is this paint okay to soap and rinse?
I have just soaked them in a soapy sink and cleaned with a soft cloth. The paint has held well. And in a worst case scenario, it doesn’t take much to spray it again. 😉 Hope that helps!
So pretty Larissa! I love that they all match 🙂
Thank you, Susan! There just has to be a use for all that glassware, right? 😀
These are gorgeous. I am saving this tip for a future project!
Awesome to hear!
LOVE this idea….I’ve been spray painting so many things in my home as my garden is now all black and white….all black containers and white flowers (plus black ornaments) This has saved me hundreds of dollars and helped me in re-using items…plus I love my black and white look (I’m very Leanne Ford inspired these days)
I wish more people would be inventive instead of tossing stuff out..to help out the environment..Thanks for this!!
That sounds classically beautiful! You are most welcome, Lesley. 😀
These are amazing!! Now I know what to do with all the vases I have accumulated.
Awesome to hear! Thank you so much. 😀 Have fun!
What a nice idea. They are so pretty. I buy vases at a local thrift store and take flowers to people. I’ll do this.
Aww…you’re a blessing, Nan!
I had NO idea this could be done Larissa…thank you SO much! I’ve been keeping an eye out for milk glass for a friend’s granddaughter wedding… now our selection has exploded exponentially due to your creativity! Gracias dear lady!
How fun!! I’m so glad to hear it. Events can cost much if we buy all new. Upcycling is the BEST!