Inspired by Chinese New Year and the use of a red and gold theme, we created this simple yet elegant DIY decor idea using large glass jars, some translucent red paint and lovely gold leaf sheets.
DIY Chinese New Year Decorations
As this was the first time we added the gold leaf accent to any of our projects, we were actually not sure how it would come together. It took a bit of experimenting before we got a handle on the technique but we love the final result! It’s a clever way of adding glimmer and elegance without a lot of cost.
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Now that the jars are finished, I can see them also being used for Christmas, Valentines or for anyone that loves having a pop of red in their home decor!
Materials Needed
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- One Jar, 1L Smooth Rounded Jar with shoulders; lid removed
- Krylon Stained Glass Aerosol Paint in Cranberry Red
- Imitation Gold Leaf for crafting
- Clear drying craft glue
- Small angled paint brush
- Twinkle lights
Instructions for Making this Chinese New Year Decoration:
Preparing the Glass Jars
Thoroughly wash jars with soap and hot water and let them dry completely before using. Additionally, use rubbing alcohol and a clean paper towel to wipe away any prints or smudges.
With the lid removed, place the jar upside down on a protected surface. Apply an even coat of stained glass aerosol spray paint to the surface following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Leave paint to dry fully and then apply a second coat of spray paint. Continue until the desired amount of coverage is achieved.
Applying the Gold Leaf
Next, apply the gold leaf to only the rim of the jar.
Working small sections at a time, use a paint brush to brush on a thin layer of glue on the jar rim.
Gently press a sheet of gold leaf over the rim of the jar and break away the excess gold leaf.
Continue working around the rim until it’s fully covered.
Insert a set of pretty twinkle lights inside the jar to complete this Chinese New Year decoration. Style the jars with other red and gold decorations such as red votive candle holders, gold sequins and metallic gold stackable boxes to complete the look. To stay in the know on our latest crafts, special offers and freebie, be sure to join our mailing list.
More Glass Jar Crafting Ideas
Aside from Chinese New Year decorations, we have plenty of other DIY holiday decor ideas. Here are just a few other posts you can find on the blog:
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DIY Chinese New Year Decor Idea
Materials
- 1 Jar 1L Smooth Rounded Jar with shoulders; lid removed
- Krylon Stained Glass Aerosol Paint in Cranberry Red
- Imitation Gold Leaf for crafting
- Clear drying craft glue
- Small angled paint brush
- Twinkle lights
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash jars with soap and hot water and let them dry completely before using.
- With the lid removed, place the jar upside down on a protected surface. Apply an even coat of stained glass aerosol spray paint to the surface following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Leave paint to dry fully and then apply a second coat of spray paint.
- Next, apply the gold leaf to only the rim of the jar.
- Working small sections at a time, use a paint brush to brush on a thin layer of glue on the jar rim.
- Gently press a sheet of gold leaf over the rim of the jar and break away the excess gold leaf.
- Continue working around the rim until it’s fully covered.
- Insert a set of twinkle lights inside the jar.