Ingredients
- 1 clear plastic bowl, about 7 inches wide and 4 inches deep (the shade)
- 18 clear plastic half-sphere ornaments, about 1.5 inches wide each (the bubbles)
- 1 battery-operated LED puck light, about 3 inches wide (cool to the touch)
- 1 bottle of water-based translucent glass or multi-surface paint, 2 fluid ounces (one color)
- 1 bottle of water-based translucent glass or multi-surface paint, 2 fluid ounces (a second color)
- 1 bottle of water-based translucent glass or multi-surface paint, 2 fluid ounces (a third color, optional)
- 1 small bottle of clear water-based sealer, 2 fluid ounces (optional)
- 1 sheet of 220 grit sandpaper, about 3 by 5 inches
- 1 small foam brush, about 1 inch wide
- 1 small detail paintbrush, about 1/4 inch wide
- 1 ruler, at least 12 inches long
- 1 pencil
- 1 pair of scissors, 6 to 8 inches long
- 1 roll of painter's tape, 3/4 inch wide
- 1 sheet of wax paper, about 12 by 18 inches
- 1 drop cloth, about 24 by 36 inches (a reusable tablecloth works)
- 1 pair of nitrile or washable craft gloves (optional)
- 1 small cup of water, 8 fluid ounces (for rinsing brushes)
- 1 clean cloth, about 12 by 12 inches (for wiping the bowl)
- 1 small tray or shallow box, about 10 by 14 inches (for holding bubbles while they dry)
Instructions
- Cover your table with the drop cloth before you open the paint.
- Wash the clear bowl and all 18 half-spheres with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Dry them completely with the clean cloth.
- Use the 220 grit sandpaper to lightly scuff the outside of each half-sphere and the outside of the bowl, then wipe away the dust with the clean cloth.
- Set the 18 half-spheres on wax paper with the rounded side facing up. Paint the first thin coat using the foam brush, leaving a small clear crescent near the bottom edge.
- Let the first coat dry for 1 hour. Apply a second thin coat, changing colors across the tray in a loose rhythm.
- Allow the bubbles to dry for 4 hours. If using the optional clear sealer, brush on one very light coat and let it dry for another 1 hour.
- While the bubbles dry, place the bowl upside down on the drop cloth. Measure and mark six points around the rim with the pencil, spacing them roughly 3 inches apart.
- Arrange three rows of bubbles on the bowl before attaching them.
- Attach each bubble with a small dot of clear craft adhesive on the unpainted edge. Press it against the bowl for about 20 seconds.
- Check the arrangement for balance while the adhesive cures. Adjust as needed.
- Place the bowl in a quiet spot and let the adhesive cure for at least 12 hours.
- Turn the bowl right side up and place the battery-operated LED puck light inside the center.
- Test the glow in a dim room and adjust the light position if necessary.
- Remove any loose adhesive threads after the glue has fully cured and wipe the outside gently with a dry cloth.
Notes
This project allows for creative expression and does not require perfect symmetry, embracing the handmade character of the lamp.
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
