Ingredients
- 1 clear glass vase, 6 inches tall and about 4 inches wide, with an opening at least 2.5 inches across
- 1 battery-powered warm white LED puck light, 2 to 3 inches wide, with fresh batteries
- 24 clear plastic craft bubbles, 1 to 1.5 inches wide, lightweight and hollow
- 8 fluid ounces of glass frosting medium, water-based
- 2 fluid ounces of water-based acrylic paint in a color you enjoy
- 1 tablespoon of water for thinning the acrylic paint if needed
- 1 small foam brush, 1 inch wide
- 1 small detail paintbrush, about 1/4 inch wide
- 1 sheet of 220 grit sandpaper, cut into a 3 by 3 inch piece
- 1 roll of painter's tape, 3/4 inch wide
- 1 lint-free cloth, about 12 by 12 inches
- 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol for cleaning the glass
- 1 pair of nitrile or household cleaning gloves
- 1 plastic drop cloth or flattened paper grocery bag, large enough to cover your work area
- 1 shallow cardboard box, about 8 by 8 inches, for drying the vase and catching drips
- 1 pair of small scissors for cutting tape
Instructions
- Cover your table with the drop cloth and gather all materials within reach.
- Wear gloves and wash the vase with warm water and dish soap, then dry it completely.
- Dampen the cloth with 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol and wipe the outside of the vase.
- Wrap painter’s tape around the glass 1 inch above the base to mark a soft painted band.
- Lightly scuff only the lower band with the sandpaper using small, gentle circles for about 30 seconds.
- Apply the first thin coat of frosting medium to the upper outside of the vase with the foam brush.
- Let the frosting medium dry for 30 to 45 minutes, then apply a second thin coat.
- While the second coat dries, stir the acrylic paint and thin with water if needed.
- Paint the lower band with the detail brush using two light coats.
- Wait another 30 to 45 minutes, then carefully peel away the painter's tape.
- Place the LED puck light in the bottom of the dry vase, switch facing upward, and test the light.
- Arrange 12 plastic bubbles around the puck light, leaving the center mostly open.
- Add the remaining 12 bubbles in a loose second layer, turning the vase as you work.
- If needed, use a tiny dot of removable adhesive beneath any bubble that rolls too much.
- Stand back and look at the lamp from several sides and make adjustments if necessary.
- Wipe the outside gently with the lint-free cloth after final dry time.
- Switch on the light and enjoy the glow.
Notes
Keep the finished lamp away from water, curtains, and heat sources. For safety, avoid using spray frosting in a closed room, and ensure proper airflow when using rubbing alcohol.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
