Easy, Shatterproof DIY Mercury Glass Ornaments • The Rustic Elk (2024)

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These easy, shatterproof DIY mercury glass ornaments will be ready in less than 5 minutes, have the same look as real mercury glass for a fraction of the price.

I know, I know some of you are probably ready to knock me out. Christmas stuff this early? But, if you’re any kind of crafter, you probably began your Christmas crafts, long before me. These easy DIY mercury glass ornaments take less than 5 minutes to make, they’re super frugal (have you seen the price of an actual mercury glass ornament? Insanity), they’re not breakable (haha, but they’re “glass”), and a total novice can do this Christmas craft.

I love the old, vintage decor. I enjoy repurposing things, I like to give my decor that vintage, farmhouse feel. Why? Because it speaks to me, it’s simple (like our lifestyle), and it doesn’t have to break the budget. So, when I found mercury glass ornaments, I wanted them for our tree. But, I didn’t want the price tag. That kind of money on one ornament? No. I cannot justify that for something that will hang out for maybe a month and a half, two months. So, I decided to see if I could DIY my own.

I was happy to discover, there are tons of tutorials online for these. They each had their own differences, but it definitely looked like something I could tackle on my own and for way less than the cost of a real mercury glass ornament.

Most of these tutorials called for clear glass ornaments (duh). But, I have kids and a dog, so we try not to put many glass ornaments out. Even though our living room is currently carpeted, it won’t always be (and it hasn’t always been). I wanted an unbreakable option so I wouldn’t have shattered glass all over the floor and my dog running for cover with glass in his paw. So, I opted to try the unbreakable plastic ornaments instead, and I am happy to report, you can’t tell the difference.

These are incredibly easy to make, I don’t really consider myself a crafty person (although I love to DIY), but these were simple enough my two older kids (8 & 7) made one each. The only trick is to make sure the spray paint gets squirtedinsidethe ornament. As long as you have the nozzle pointed in the right direction, you’re good.

All in all, in total, I made 6 ornaments for less than $20 and I have plenty of spray paint leftover for whatever I set my mind to. I did use a 40% off coupon because the looking glass spray paint that you use for these costs alotmore than your typical spray paint (mine stickered for $11.99 the day I bought it). But, I’m sure I’ll find a million other uses for it,orI’ll turn everything we own into mercury glass… ya know because it’s cool.

I have to say, these look so much more amazing in person. It’s really very difficult to get good pictures of mirrored ornaments, just so you know. But these are amazing and I definitely plan to make more to hang on the tree this year because 1) they’re super, super easy and 2) I have all of the stuff and they look amazing.

A Note on DIY Mercury Glass Supplies

You haveto use Krylon Looking Glass Spray Paint or Rustoleum Mirror Effect spray paint for this project. Silver metallic will not work. It does cost more, but you won’t get the same results without it. I had trouble finding it, I found it at Hobby Lobby and couldn’t find it at Lowe’s or Home Depot (which is unusual). It is available on Amazon, as well.

If you’re like me, the most difficult part of this entire process will be getting the lid off of spray paint. You have to pry it off with a screwdriver (or you did mine) and I ended up just busting the lid off after cussing at it for several moments. Maybe you’ll have better luck, but my screwdriver was too small, I was being impatient, and I really didn’t want to go out to the garage to go through my husband’s tools to find the proper-sized screwdriver.

I chose to use clear shatterproof ornaments instead of glass. You can use glass if that’s your thing. I would love to, but they’d just wind up shattered on the ground before the season was over more than likely. If you have kids or pets and you try to stay away from the breakable ornaments hanging on your tree, do yourself a favor and buy the clear plastic ones. You’ll thank me later.

I did make one ornament with just the copper paint (listed below) and it’s gorgeous. So, I may do a few like that as well. It’s got a really neat rustic look to it. So, when you make these, get creative! Use extra copper, or none, or put it in first, or absolute last. Use massive amounts of vinegar spray, or don’t. They will all turn out different and unique, which is what makes them so awesome! Also note, the copper must be the foil effect, not the metallic… the results won’t be the same.

Active Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated Cost: $1/ornament

These easy DIY mercury glass ornaments take less than 5 minutes to make, are unbreakable, and look like the real thing at a fraction of the price!

Instructions

  1. Take the tops off of your ornaments. I wasn't impressed with their look, so we will fix that first. Easy, Shatterproof DIY Mercury Glass Ornaments • The Rustic Elk (4)
  2. Take the tops outside and disassemble them (pull the spring hanger out of the top itself). Place them on a piece of newspaper and give them a good squirt of vinegar. Then, spray them well with the copper spray paint, coating them evenly. I brought mine in and let them dry while I made the ornaments.
  3. Take an ornament spray 2-3 squirts of the looking glass spray paint inside. Immediately follow with 2 squirts of vinegar. Swish it around and blow the hairdryer inside while swishing to help along with the drying effect. You'll know the paint is dry when it begins to look like a mirror. They're going to look not so great, and barely covered, that's okay. Easy, Shatterproof DIY Mercury Glass Ornaments • The Rustic Elk (5)
  4. Continue by spraying 2-3 more squirts of the looking glass spray paint inside the ornament, followed by 2 squirts of vinegar. Place a paper towel on top of the ornament and begin gently shaking it. While you're shaking it, use the hairdryer on the outside of the ornament to help along the drying process. Once you have it nice and shaken up, go ahead and use the blow dryer inside while continuing to swirl the paint (you're just blowing the air into the opening).
  5. Now, spray 2 squirts of copper and a squirt of the looking glass paint inside. Spray 2 squirts of vinegar. Place the paper towel back on top and shake continuing just like the previous step. Once you have it nice and shaken up, use the blow dryer on the inside while continuing to swirl the paint around.
  6. If it isn't quite coated enough, repeat the process until it is. It only took the two sprays and the final spray with copper for mine to be complete, but you'll know when yours is finished and when it's coated the way you want it.
  7. If your tops aren't dry, go ahead and use the blow dryer to finish drying them off. Place them into the top of the ornaments and enjoy!

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Easy, Shatterproof DIY Mercury Glass Ornaments • The Rustic Elk (2024)

FAQs

How do you make glass ornaments shatterproof? ›

Place them on a piece of newspaper and give them a good squirt of vinegar. Then, spray them well with the copper spray paint, coating them evenly. I brought mine in and let them dry while I made the ornaments.

What are shatterproof ornaments made of? ›

SHATTERPROOF CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS - These ornaments are made of durable plastic to provide excellent shatterproof performance while compared with traditional glass products. Shatterproof ornaments combine the beauty and luster of real glass with the unbreakable practicality of plastic.

How do you make a mercury glass ornament? ›

The Step By Step Process I Did To Make These Ornaments:

Remove the top of the ornament and cut the ribbon or string off. Shake the Looking Glass spray paint and spray once into the ornament. Roll the spray paint all around inside the ornament. Use the hairdryer as you move the paint around until it dries.

Are vintage mercury glass ornaments safe? ›

Mercury can damage the nervous system, brain, kidneys, and developing fetuses. Over time, mercury in antique items can leak out as seals age or when the items are damaged, dropped or moved improperly.

How do you strengthen glass ornaments? ›

Options include fast-drying super glue for glass and epoxy glue for glass, which has two separate substances that you mix together immediately before use. Epoxy glue has a much longer drying time, which enables you to take a little longer with the repair.

What do you wrap breakable ornaments in? ›

General glass items and other breakables

For small, fragile items, treat them like ornaments and wrap them in tissue paper and, if desired, a layer of air-filled plastic wrap as well. Larger items can be safely wrapped in packing paper and also, for extra protection, wrapped in a layer of air-filled plastic wrap.

Do shatterproof ornaments break? ›

Historically, glass has been the preferred style for Christmas Ornaments, but Shatterproof Ornaments are just as stunning and provide the peace of mind in knowing that they won't break if dropped.

How do you stop ornaments from breaking? ›

Keep ornaments from scratching and breaking by wrapping them in tissue paper, paper towels, or fabric scraps. One benefit of making your own dividers is that you can easily customize for odd-shaped decorations, like the long one shown above.

How do you make mercury glass with vinegar? ›

THE DIY MERCURY GLASS METHOD

Spray the back of your glass item with a light coat of the Looking Glass spray paint, then immediately mist with the water/vinegar solution. Let dry for 15-20 minutes, then coat with spray paint again, immediately following with the water/vinegar solution.

How can you tell if glass is mercury glass? ›

There are many reproductions currently marketed as "mercury glass", in table form, ornaments and other objects. New "mercury glass" can be distinguished from antique silvered glass in several ways, including lack of a double wall, and solid bottoms that are different from true antique silvered glass.

Is mercury glass expensive? ›

Authentic mercury glass is kind of expensive. A vase in perfect condition might cost between $80 and $100; painted pieces can sell for $200 or more; colored, engraved, cut, and labeled pieces can fetch more than $1,000. Exposure to air causes oxidation of the silvered inner surface and makes it flake off.

Does mercury glass have real mercury in it? ›

What is Mercury Glass? Mercury glass, also known as silvered glass, contains neither mercury nor silver. It's actually clear glass, mold-blown into double-walled shapes and coated on the inside with a silvering formula, which is inserted though a small hole that is then sealed with a plug.

Does mercury glass glow? ›

The soft glow and mirror-shine patina of mercury glass adds a vintage appeal to any décor, and it is especially nice for table settings in the form or candleholders, floral containers, and chargers.

How do you make glass look rustic? ›

It's a great job for little hands that may want to help! Just take rough sandpaper and sand all over the bottle! The more your sand, the more distressed the bottle will look. I like to buy a Variety pack of Sandpaper and even switch up the different sandpaper grits I'm using!

Is mercury glass harmful? ›

For example, "mercury glass" has become popular again. New mercury glass does not contain any mercury. If these are broken, there is no additional toxicity beyond the sharp fragments of broken glass.

What makes glass unbreakable? ›

When you're looking for truly unbreakable window glass, polycarbonate panels are the “glass” that you want. These panels look just like regular window glass, but they are actually made of a combination of acrylics, polycarbonate, and other plastics.

What is the best glue for glass ornaments? ›

For most common glass repairs, Loctite Glass Glue is the go-to choice. Loctite Glass Glue is great for use with all clear, colored, stained, and tinted glass types.

How do you harden glass at home? ›

Place the glass in a heated tempering oven or kiln with tongs or a paddle. The temperature needs to be at least 600 °C (1,112 °F) in order to temper the glass, so make sure the oven is at least this hot before you put the glass in. The industry standard for tempering glass is 620 °C (1,148 °F).

How do you seal homemade ornaments? ›

To help preserve your finished dried ornaments, you can coat with a layer or two of Mod Podge or spray with a sealer. Either work well. I'd recommend coating or sealing both sides, so do one side and let it dry, and then do the second side.

What to wrap breakables in when packing? ›

Use filler like crumpled newspaper, peanuts, or other cushioning material to keep your product from moving around. Wrap fragile products individually in a minimum 3" thickness of air-cellular cushioning material, and then fill any empty spaces with loose-fill peanuts or other cushioning material.

Can shatterproof ornaments go outside? ›

Large shatterproof Christmas ornaments are perfect for large Christmas tree displays or for outdoor decorations.

Can you use shatterproof ornaments outside? ›

Assorted finishes and colors of shatterproof ornaments for safe and quick additions to indoor and outdoor decorating. Can be used on trees, wreaths, centerpieces, garlands or as individual decorations. Brighten your holiday decorations with these shatter resistant ornaments.

Are old Christmas ornaments toxic? ›

Yes, all those beautiful tree ornaments, the decorations, and even that snarl of lights you drag out of storage once a year have the potential to contain toxic substances. The most common reason: They can contain lead.

Does Mod Podge work for ornaments? ›

Yes! You can use one of these two methods for your glitter ornaments: Coat the outside of your glass balls with Mod Podge and sprinkle the glitter on (either the entire ornament or parts like we did). Mix glitter and Mod Podge and swirl around the inside of the ornament.

Can I use Mod Podge for ornaments? ›

Simply cut out your favorite photos from holiday cards and Mod Podge them onto wood ornaments. We love painting the background of the ornaments with acrylic craft paint, letting that dry, then applying a layer of Mod Podge and adhering photos to the ornaments. This would make such a great holiday gift for grandparents!

How do you seal ornaments? ›

You can paint a coat of glossy decoupage glue over the entire ornament to seal and protect it, and to give it a shiny finish. You can also spritz it with a light coat of polyurethane spray. Both methods, along with the salt acting as a natural preservative, help to extend the ornament's longevity.

How long do you leave vinegar on glass? ›

Let the vinegar soak in for at least 10 minutes. Let it soak even longer if there's significant buildup. Dip a scrub sponge into baking soda, and scrub the glass. The baking soda acts as an abrasive, while the vinegar dissolves the hard water spots and soap scum.

Does vinegar destroy glass? ›

Small Appliances. The plastic and glass surfaces on most small kitchen appliances, such as blenders, coffee makers, and toasters, are safe to clean with vinegar, but you want to avoid any rubber parts or metal that vinegar can corrode. This includes stainless steel.

What does white vinegar do to glass? ›

It's called distilled vinegar or simply white vinegar. Vinegar is a unique multi-purpose cleaning solution. Since it has an acidic composition, vinegar has a quick action in breaking down the thin film that collects on glass surfaces. It's most often combined with baking soda for different cleaning purposes.

Can you Mod Podge glass ornaments? ›

The Mod Podge Sparkle will add a thin coat of sparkle and sheen that's the perfect finishing touch for these ornaments! Lastly, add a piece of ribbon or string for hanging. What is this? I really love how simple this was and how cute my Mod Podge glass Christmas ornaments turned out!

Why does mercury does not stick to glass? ›

Mercury does not wet the glass because the cohesive force with the drops is stronger than the adhesive force between the drops and glass.

Can you decorate with mercury glass year round? ›

We love mercury glass year round,” says Ballard's Accessories Buyer Angela Atkinson. “It's a great way to add subtle sparkle anywhere in your home.” So set out your candlesticks, fill your bowls and turn on your lamps. It's time to let your mercury glass shine all season long.

When did they stop using mercury in ornaments? ›

By the late 1840s and 1850s, manufacturers of silvered glass were using a silver nitrate and glucose solution instead of the mercury amalgam.

What type of glass is worth money? ›

Some of the most collectible types & styles of antique and vintage glassware include Depression Glass, Carnival Glass, Milk Glass, Moonstone, Hobnail Glass, and Jadeite. One of the most popular styles of antique glass was a Hen on Nest, also known as Animal Dishes because of the variety of animals they come in.

Can mercury glass get wet? ›

Formation of a Meniscus

Mercury does not wet glass - the cohesive forces within the drops are stronger than the adhesive forces between the drops and glass.

Is mercury glass still popular? ›

Today, mercury glass vases, pins, candelabra, and candle holders are extremely popular with antique enthusiasts; it's also surprising that average customers adore that distinctive molten look.

What household item has mercury? ›

Mercury Containing Products Commonly Found in Homes
  • Thermometers.
  • Thermostats.
  • Button Cell Batteries.
  • Fluorescent light bulbs (tubes and CFLs)
  • Mercury switches (in automobiles and appliances)
  • Barometers.
  • Blood pressure gauges.
  • Mercury-Added Novelties.

What household item contains mercury? ›

Thermometers - typically contain about ½ gram of this silver colored liquid (non-mercury alternatives are available) Thermostats - inside the sealed glass "tilt switch" (not the newer electronic kind) Gauges - barometers, manometers, blood pressure and vacuum gauges ONLY with silver colored liquid.

What happens if mercury gets on you? ›

MERCURY EXPOSURE

If it is swallowed, like from a broken thermometer, it mostly passes through your body and very little is absorbed. If you touch it, a small amount may pass through your skin, but not usually enough to harm you.

What glass glows purple under black light? ›

If you shine a black light on them, they will glow a bright green, orange, red, purple, or yellow color. These are known as fluorescent or ultraviolet glass, or simply UV glass.

Can you turn mirror into mercury glass? ›

Here are the basics: Shake the mirror spray paint well and apply a thin coat to one side of the glass. Let the first coat dry for about a minute, then spritz lightly with the vinegar-water solution. Blot gently with a paper towel or soft cloth to remove flecks of paint to create the mottled look of mercury glass.

Is mercury glass out of style? ›

Regardless, mercury glass made a comeback around 1900 as a festive form of glassware to use around the holidays. It fell out of style over the decades, but now, mercury glass has made yet another comeback, especially among antique enthusiasts.

Do glass ornaments shatter? ›

Even on carpet, glass ornaments can easily shatter, leaving a dangerous and costly mess.

How do you store ornaments so they don't break? ›

Wrap them up in bubble wrap, tissue paper, or even cloth in order to keep them safe. Store them separately and securely. Don't let your ornaments crash into each other! Store them away from other decorations that can handle being moved about, and store them in a storage bin or box with dividers.

How can you tell if an ornament is mercury glass? ›

There are many reproductions currently marketed as "mercury glass", in table form, ornaments and other objects. New "mercury glass" can be distinguished from antique silvered glass in several ways, including lack of a double wall, and solid bottoms that are different from true antique silvered glass.

Does mercury glass fade? ›

As it began to fade from popular favor, mercury glass could be found in purely decorative objects like Christmas ornaments. Original mercury glass is now a popular antique find. Because the glass was usually not perfectly sealed, antique mercury glass can tarnish or deteriorate.

Does mercury glass have lead in it? ›

Mercury glass tree topper: 207 ppm Lead + 462 ppm Arsenic.

How do you clean old mercury glass ornaments? ›

If any dirt remains, use a mild solution made from one part ethanol (also labeled "denatured alcohol"), one part water, and just a few drops of ammonia, applying it in the same fashion. Never use commercial cleansers, which are often too strong for vintage glass.

How do you make an ornament organizer? ›

DIY Holiday Ornament Box

All you need is a plastic bin, red plastic cups, cardboard and a glue gun. Cut cardboard to fit inside the bin, glue on plastic cups, drop ornaments into cups and voila!

What is the best packaging material for your ornament? ›

Tissue paper, bubble wrap and packing paper are common materials used for this purpose. However, there are also several eco-friendly alternatives including ornament organizers and seasonal linens, as well as reusing tissue paper and bubble wrap from the year before.

Which Mod Podge works best on glass? ›

Mod Podge Gloss works great on glass!

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