Applying glitter to painted wood is a straightforward process that involves using an adhesive and then sealing the glitter in place.
To apply glitter to painted wood, you first need to apply an adhesive and then add the glitter before the adhesive dries.
When adding glitter to wood, the goal is to ensure the glitter adheres securely and doesn't flake off easily. This requires both a durable adhesive and a method to seal in the glitter after application. Using an adhesive like paint, glue, or a spray allows the glitter to stick, and applying it while the adhesive is still wet is crucial for successful bonding.
Step-by-Step Application Methods
The reference suggests using paint, glue, or a spray-on adhesive. The key step across all methods is to apply the adhesive layer first, and then add the glitter before it has a chance to dry or cure.
Here are a few common methods based on the suggested adhesives:
Method 1: Using Paint
If you want to add glitter directly to a painted finish, you can incorporate it while the paint is still wet.
- Apply a fresh coat of the desired paint color to the wood surface.
- While the paint is still wet, generously sprinkle or pour glitter over the painted area.
- Allow the paint and glitter to dry completely.
Method 2: Using Glue
Craft glue, like PVA glue or decoupage medium, is an effective adhesive for glitter.
- Apply a layer of liquid glue evenly onto the painted wood surface where you want the glitter. A brush or roller can be used depending on the area size.
- Immediately after applying the glue, sprinkle or pour glitter over the wet adhesive.
- Allow the glue and glitter to dry completely.
Method 3: Using Spray Adhesive
Spray adhesive offers a quick way to cover larger areas with glitter.
- Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated and protect surrounding areas from overspray.
- Hold the spray adhesive can the recommended distance from the painted wood surface and apply an even layer.
- Quickly, before the spray adhesive dries (it often becomes tacky very fast), sprinkle or pour glitter over the coated area.
- Allow the adhesive and glitter to dry completely.
Note: With all methods, you can apply multiple layers of glitter or adhesive and glitter to achieve your desired level of sparkle, as you can make your project as glittery as you like.
Sealing Your Glitter
As mentioned in the reference, you want to seal in the glitter so it won't fall off. Once the initial adhesive is completely dry, applying a sealant is essential. This prevents the glitter from shedding and adds durability to the finish.
- A clear spray sealant, a brush-on clear coat, or a decoupage medium are common choices for sealing glitter on wood.
- Apply the sealant carefully to avoid disturbing the glitter layer. Multiple thin coats are often better than one thick coat.
- Allow the sealant to dry fully according to the product instructions.
By following these steps – applying an adhesive (paint, glue, or spray) and adding glitter before it dries, then sealing – you can successfully apply glitter to painted wood, creating a durable and sparkling finish.
