Old faded glass Christmas ornaments, what do I do with them?

by Lu Schmidt

+15

Answered

I've saved old Christmas ornaments over the last 40 years. Originally, they were colored ornaments that reflect light. Not all that color is gone but they look pretty shabby. I don't want to just spray paint them on the outside. Is there a way to get that reflective color back to the inside? Are there other things I could do with them?

12 answers

Janet Pizaro on Aug 25, 2015
Did you go on pinterest?

Helpful Reply
- Lu Schmidt on Aug 25, 2015
  @Janet Pizaro No I didn't . I've had such wonderful results on Hometalk. Thought I'd start there.
  
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Janet Pizaro on Aug 25, 2015
I would because they give such inspiration.

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- Lu Schmidt on Aug 25, 2015
  @Janet Pizaro I did look now. Thanks for the idea. Found some paint that can be used that is like a mirror image on the underside. You put the paint inside the globe. The thing is, they are using a fresh globe; I'm still not sure what to do with the old color. Wondering if there is a way to get rid of that before adding new paint.
  
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Janet Pizaro on Aug 25, 2015
I don't think that will make a difference. Try one and see how you like it. Keep me updated.

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Pete Sakes on Aug 25, 2015
I'd try to remove the old paint with 91% rubbing alcohol. You can get it at any pharmacy, our local walmart has it too. I think it will work, it takes fingernail polish off and also if you get it on a piece of furniture it will take the varnish off so be careful when using it.

Helpful Reply
- Lu Schmidt on Aug 25, 2015
  @Mama First Thanks. I'll have to give that a try.
  
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Sharlene clair on Aug 26, 2015
http://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/seasonal-decor/fall-acorn-ornaments-9784155?se=fol_new-20150826-1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=fol_new&date=20150826

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- Lu Schmidt on Aug 26, 2015
  @Sharlene clair Clever idea. Thanks.
  
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Sharlene clair on Aug 26, 2015
http://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/seasonal-decor/fall-acorn-ornaments-9784155?se=fol_new-20150826-1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=fol_new&date=20150826

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Ann on Aug 26, 2015
I found the paint comes off with hot soapy water. I use Mod Podge to make neat decor balls for Halloween, then used book pages to make Christmas ornies. Also, spray paint them then use Elmer's glue and craft paint to crackle paint them.

Helpful Reply
- Lu Schmidt on Aug 26, 2015
  @Ann Great ideas. Love the Halloween decor ball idea. I truly do have enough ornaments for my tree, this would give me another use. I never dreamed the paint would come off with hot soapy water. I will try that before other ideas I've learned. Thank you.
  
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Dianne Fallen on Nov 12, 2015
We use to soak them in bleach overbite to remove all paint and decorate again

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Dianne Fallen on Nov 12, 2015
Sorry that is overnite

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Kerensa Zieske on Nov 13, 2015
You can wash them clear, then swirl mop & glow floor cleaner inside, let them drain and sprinkle very fine glitter on the inside. (any colors or theme your heart desires)

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Lindsay Jackson on Dec 11, 2015
you could also use the looking glass spray 'paint' (there are a couple others too but i can't think what they are called, lol, not enough coffee today) could even do a 'mercury' glass to keep that 'vintage' look to them

Helpful Reply
Amy P, Hometalk Editor on Sep 08, 2023

Oooh! So many ideas for this one. You can check out Hometalk's huge list of DIY Christmas ornament ideas for inspiration: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/ornaments/diy-christmas-ornaments-44674525

Helpful Reply
- Amy P, Hometalk Editor on Sep 08, 2023
  
  Personally, I think painting could be the way to go.
  
  These painting ideas are super easy and look so impressive: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/ornaments/easy-diy-painted-christmas-ornaments-44666296
  
  This marbled effect is really cute, for a modern look: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/ornaments/how-to-diy-marbled-christmas-ornaments-in-5-easy-steps-44536852
  
  Mercury glass is timeless and looks so high-end: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/craft/ornaments/diy-mercury-glass-ornaments-44667364
  
  How to DIY Marbled Christmas Ornaments in 5 Easy Steps
  
  Helpful

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