DIY Frosted Glass Vase: Icy Winter Decor

Updated at: 25/03/2025

Winter's icy breath inspires a unique kind of beauty, and what better way to capture that ethereal feel than with a DIY frosted glass vase? This simple craft project transforms ordinary glass containers into stunning winter decorations, perfect for adding a touch of frosty elegance to your home. Imagine the delicate, diffused light filtering through the frosted surface, creating a captivating ambiance that perfectly complements the season's cozy atmosphere. Whether you're decorating for the holidays or simply want to add a touch of winter magic to your everyday décor, this project is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding.

Creating your own icy-inspired vase is easier than you might think, requiring only a few readily available materials and minimal crafting expertise. Ready to transform your plain glass vases into beautiful winter accents? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own DIY frosted glass vase.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Glass vases (2, one fitting inside the other)
  • Floor cleaner with shine (for vinyl floors)
  • Glitter (various colors, including coarse and fine)
  • Krylon triple thick crystal clear glaze
  • Decoupage glue
  • Napkins or snowflake punch
  • Metallic paints
  • Swarovski crystals
  • Sequins
  • LED lights
  • E6000 glue
  • Small pouncing brush
  • Candle
Safety Guidelines
  • Always work in a well-ventilated area. Frosted glass sprays contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent skin and eye irritation from the spray.
  • Ensure the glass vase is clean and dry before applying the frosted glass spray for optimal adhesion and a smooth finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vases

    • Find two glass vases, one fitting inside the other. Clean them thoroughly.
    Prepare the vases: Find two glass vases, one fitting inside the other. Clean them thoroughly.
    Prepare the Vases

  2. Prepare for Glitter Application

    • Apply a floor cleaner that provides shine (specifically for vinyl) to the inside of both vases. This creates a base for the glitter to adhere to.
    Apply floor cleaner: Apply a floor cleaner that provides shine (specifically for vinyl) to the inside of both vases. This creates a base for the glitter to adhere to.
    Prepare for Glitter Application

  3. Add Glitter to Vases

    • Pour various colors of glitter (coarse and fine) into the vases. The creator used a mix of blues, silver, and white to achieve an icy effect. Shake and rotate the vase to evenly distribute the glitter.
    Add glitter: Pour various colors of glitter (coarse and fine) into the vases. The creator used a mix of blues, silver, and white to achieve an icy effect. Shake and rotate the vase to evenly distribute the glitter.
    Add Glitter to Vases

  4. Seal with Glaze

    • Spray the inside of the vases with Krylon triple thick crystal clear glaze. Work quickly as it dries fast. Let the glaze dry.
    Spray with glaze: Spray the inside of the vases with Krylon triple thick crystal clear glaze. Work quickly as it dries fast. Let the glaze dry.
    Seal with Glaze

  5. Optional: Decoupage Inner Vase

    • Decoupage the inner vase with napkins or paper (to subdue the light from the candle/lights).
    Optional Decoupage: Decoupage the inner vase with napkins or paper (to subdue the light from the candle/lights).
    Optional: Decoupage Inner Vase

  6. Add Rim Glitter

    • Apply a small amount of triple thick to the vase's rim and then dip it in the glitter mix to create a glittery edge.
    Add Rim Glitter: Apply a small amount of triple thick to the vase's rim and then dip it in the glitter mix to create a glittery edge.
    Add Rim Glitter

  7. Add Snowflake Decorations

    • Use a snowflake punch to cut out snowflakes from coffee filters or tissue paper. Apply decoupage glue to small areas on the outer vase and adhere the snowflakes.
    Add Snowflake Decorations: Use a snowflake punch to cut out snowflakes from coffee filters or tissue paper. Apply decoupage glue to small areas on the outer vase and adhere the snowflakes.
    Add Snowflake Decorations

  8. Add Crystal and Sequin Accents

    • Use E6000 glue to attach Swarovski crystals and sequins to the center of the snowflakes for extra sparkle.
    Add Crystals and Sequins: Use E6000 glue to attach Swarovski crystals and sequins to the center of the snowflakes for extra sparkle.
    Add Crystal and Sequin Accents

  9. Assemble and Display

    • Place the inner vase inside the outer vase. Add LED lights or a candle inside for a beautiful effect.
    Assemble and Decorate: Place the inner vase inside the outer vase. Add LED lights or a candle inside for a beautiful effect.
    Assemble and Display

Read more: DIY: Create Custom Canister Labels with Silhouette Cameo

Tips

  • Practice first: Use smaller jars to practice the glitter application and decoupage techniques before working on your final vases.
  • Work quickly: The glaze dries fast, so apply it efficiently.
  • Reapply glaze: If the inside dries too quickly before adding enough glitter, spray a light coating again.
  • Don't add water: Avoid adding water to the vase, as it can loosen the glitter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Frosting

Reason: Applying the frosting solution inconsistently or too thickly in some areas leads to an uneven, patchy finish.
Solution: Reapply a thin, even coat of frosting solution to the entire vase surface, ensuring complete coverage.

2. Streaking or Cloudy Appearance

Reason: Not cleaning the vase thoroughly before applying the frosting solution or using a dirty applicator can result in streaks or a cloudy finish.
Solution: Clean the vase with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth before applying the frosting solution and use a clean applicator.

FAQs

Can I use any type of glass for this project?
While most glass types work, avoid using very thick or textured glass, as the frosting solution might not adhere evenly. Thin, smooth glass containers are ideal for best results.