Iridescent Ornaments: DIY Ideas & Where To Buy
Are you ready to transform your holiday decorations with a touch of magic and shimmer? Iridescent ornaments offer a captivating brilliance that elevates any festive display, turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones.
The allure of iridescent ornaments lies in their dynamic play of color, reflecting light and creating a mesmerizing visual effect. These ornaments, available in various shapes and sizes, add a unique dimension to Christmas trees, party decorations, and even everyday craft projects. This article explores the world of iridescent ornaments, delving into their diverse applications and guiding you through the process of creating your own shimmering masterpieces.
The market is brimming with options. You can find individual ornaments or sets, made from glass or plastic, and in a rainbow of sizes. Consider the desired aesthetic. Are you looking for a subtle, elegant shimmer or a bold, vibrant statement? Think about the overall theme of your decorations and choose ornaments that complement your existing dcor.
Iridescent ornaments are not limited to Christmas trees. Their versatility allows them to be incorporated into various projects, including:
- Party Decorations: Use them as part of centerpieces, strung across walls, or incorporated into balloon arrangements.
- Wedding Decor: Add a touch of glamour by using them as table settings, hanging them from ceilings, or creating decorative backdrops.
- Craft Projects: Incorporate them into DIY projects like wreaths, garlands, and handmade gifts.
- Home Decor: Display them in bowls, vases, or decorative trays for a touch of everyday elegance.
- Holiday Events: From Halloween cauldrons to birthday bubbles, iridescent ornaments add flair.
Creating your own iridescent ornaments is a rewarding and creative endeavor. Several methods can be employed to achieve this stunning effect, offering opportunities for personalization and customization.
One popular technique involves using clear glass or plastic ornaments and acrylic paint. Gather your favorite iridescent paint colors, along with some yarn or tulle for hanging. Remove the tops of the ornaments. Pour a small amount of the iridescent paint into the ornament. Gently swirl the ornament around to coat the entire inside thoroughly. If you have any excess paint, dump it back into the container. Place the ornament upside down in a plastic cup to let any excess liquid drip out. Allow the ornaments to dry completely. Once dry, reattach the tops and add any desired embellishments, such as glitter or decorative ribbons.
Another approach utilizes Krylon Looking Glass spray paint. This spray paint creates a mirror-like effect on glass surfaces. For this project, you'll need plain glass bulb ornaments, Krylon Looking Glass spray paint, and glitter (optional). Spray the inside of the glass bulb ornaments with the spray paint, following the manufacturer's instructions. Once the paint is dry, you can add glitter for extra sparkle. Replace the ornament tops, and your glittering creations are ready to adorn your space.
According to Instagrammer Kara Whitten, spotted iridescent Christmas ornaments that she wanted at Anthropologie, she decided to make them herself. Kara grabbed some clear ornaments and took the tops off of them. December 18th, 2020 at 6:09 pm [\u2026] squeezing paint into an iridescent globe and splattering the outside with gold paint, as shown on a kailo chic life.
When choosing the right type of ornament, you should also consider the material. Glass ornaments offer a classic, high-end look. However, they are more fragile than their plastic counterparts. Plastic ornaments are shatterproof, making them a safer option, especially for households with children or pets. Consider the durability needed based on use case and handling circumstances.
Here are a few commercially available options, sourced from a variety of retailers:
- Purchase Options:
- Iridescent Ornament Balls (Multiple Sizes): Available in sets of 18, these often include clear plastic ornaments perfect for DIY projects. Look for options that come in various sizes to provide versatility for a wide array of decorative needs.
- Shappy Iridescent Christmas Ornaments: These sets typically come with a larger quantity (e.g., 50 pieces) and are often transparent and shatterproof. They may include a variety of sizes to create a dynamic visual display.
- Funtery Clear Plastic Ornaments: These are often larger (e.g., 4 inches) and come as DIY kits, perfect for adding a touch of customization. These can often be filled with decorative items, providing added personalization.
- Jutom Iridescent Ornaments: Available in various sizes (e.g., 2-inch or 1.18-inch), these are suitable for themed decorations, such as Halloween or DIY crafts.
The versatility of these ornaments extends to the craft projects. They can serve as a basis for detailed crafts. The clear plastic spheres of these ornaments are often used for unique decorations. They can be the base of a themed display, such as a Halloween cauldron or a witchs magic pot. By using acrylic paint, glitter, and various embellishments, you can customize the ornaments.
The DIY projects provide an outlet for creative expression. Consider the desired aesthetic when selecting colors and embellishments. If you're aiming for a classic look, stick with traditional colors like gold, silver, and white. For a more contemporary feel, experiment with bold colors and geometric patterns. If you're feeling inspired by nature, use earth tones and organic textures. The options are practically endless.
When considering different sizes, think about how you intend to use the ornaments. Smaller ornaments are great for filling gaps on a tree or incorporating into garlands, while larger ones make a bolder statement. Using a variety of sizes creates visual interest and depth within your arrangements. In general, sets often include a range of sizes to provide flexibility in decoration.
Consider the safety aspects of the ornaments. When selecting ornaments for households with children or pets, shatterproof plastic ornaments are a good option. Glass ornaments can be fragile and present a hazard if broken. Ensure that any embellishments or decorative elements are securely attached to prevent choking hazards. When creating DIY ornaments, use non-toxic paints and glues, especially if children are involved.
Table: DIY Iridescent Ornament Project Ideas
| Project Idea | Materials Needed | Instructions | Tips and Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iridescent Marble Ornaments | Clear plastic ornaments, iridescent acrylic paint, swirling tools (toothpicks, skewers), protective surface | 1. Remove ornament tops. 2. Pour a small amount of iridescent paint into the ornament. 3. Gently swirl the paint around, creating a marbled effect. 4. Let the excess paint drip out. 5. Allow to dry. 6. Replace ornament tops. | Experiment with different color combinations. Use a protective surface to prevent paint spills. Allow sufficient drying time. |
| Iridescent Gold Splatter Painted Ornaments | Clear glass or plastic ornaments, gold acrylic paint, iridescent acrylic paint, spray bottle (optional), protective surface | 1. Remove ornament tops. 2. Pour iridescent paint inside. 3. Swirl to coat. 4. Allow excess to drip out. 5. Add gold paint, then gently splatter the ornament with gold paint. 6. Allow the ornament to dry completely. 7. Reattach the top. | Vary the splatter density for different looks. Use a spray bottle for a finer splatter effect. Protect your work surface. |
| Glitter Iridescent Ornaments | Clear glass or plastic ornaments, Krylon Looking Glass spray paint, glitter, glue (optional), protective surface | 1. Remove ornament tops. 2. Spray the inside of the ornament with Looking Glass spray paint. 3. Let the paint dry. 4. Apply glitter (optional): either apply glue and dip in glitter or mix glitter with the spray paint for a shimmer finish. 5. Allow the ornament to dry completely. 6. Replace the top. | Use a well-ventilated area. Use various glitter sizes and colors for additional aesthetic. |
The cost of iridescent ornaments can vary widely, depending on factors such as the material, size, brand, and where you purchase them. Sets with multiple pieces often provide a more economical option than buying individual ornaments. If you're crafting your own ornaments, the cost primarily involves the materials, such as clear ornaments, paint, and embellishments. In general, plastic ornaments tend to be more affordable than glass ones.
The availability of iridescent ornaments is high, especially around the holiday season. Retailers that commonly sell these ornaments include department stores, craft stores, online marketplaces, and specialty shops. Shopping online often provides the broadest selection and competitive pricing. Plan ahead, especially if you're looking for specific styles or large quantities. Additionally, local craft fairs and markets might offer unique, handcrafted options.
The ongoing trend focuses on personalization. The increasing emphasis on DIY projects and customization further boosts the popularity of iridescent ornaments. These ornaments enable individuals to tailor their decorations to their unique tastes and preferences. As the public interest in crafts and holiday decor grows, the demand for iridescent ornaments is likely to remain strong, ensuring the shimmering beauty will continue to light up the holidays and beyond.
The longevity of the ornaments can be assured by the proper care and storage techniques. For glass ornaments, handle them with care to prevent breakage. After the holiday season, carefully pack the ornaments in their original boxes or in padded storage containers. Protect them from extreme temperatures and humidity, as these conditions can damage the paint or the integrity of the materials. For plastic ornaments, storing them in a cool, dry place is usually sufficient. Following these simple steps will ensure that your iridescent ornaments remain beautiful for many seasons.
