DIY Décor: The Mercury Effect

I have said many times before, and I will say it again when it comes to revamping pieces one of the first questions that I am pondering is probably, “Can I paint it?” The answer is generally a resounding, “yes,” however, it doesn’t apply to everything. 

Fortunately, when I was doing a pre-spring cleaning (I know, how crazy! Who wants to talk about spring when it’s still winter-ish … Brrr), I came across another box of extra mason jars that I used for a wedding event. Apparently, I had forgotten how marvellous mirrored paint was. Right, as you may have deducted, yes, I painted them and so much more!  

Take a look at my results below for some lovely inspiration plus a tutorial:  

Materials: 

• Glass or Mason jars to paint 
• Mirror Spray Paint (I used both Krylon “Looking Glass” and Rust Oleum’s “Mirror Effect”). 
• 1:1 vinegar to water ratio  
• Spray bottle or sponge 
• Paper towels  
• Cloth (lint-free/microfibre) 
• Newspaper work surface 

Method:  

1. On a flat surface in an open air workspace (outdoors is perfect), follow the instructions on the spray can. Then, spray the first coat of paint on your glass, one glass at a time. Most people spray the inside but I liked the way the outside looked in a craft before and I sprayed the outside for my first test. 

2. Use a filled spray bottle or a damp sponge with the 1:1 ratio of vinegar/water mixture to lightly spray over the paint, then carefully dab off the excess water and drops from the glass with a paper towel. This method depends on the effect that you desire. I used a sponge for my jars because I wanted a smoother finish, but if you aren’t as confident with having a steady hand or if you want the traditional mercury effect, then I suggest using a spray bottle, as it works quite well. 

3. Move on to your next coat of paint,  repeating steps 1-2. For the ultimate mirror effect, you may use anywhere from 3-5 coats. I used a total of 4 coats of paint with Rust-Oleum, but only 3 coats of paint with the Krylon version on the other jars. 

4. Let the paint dry completely before handling. After your glassware is dried, get fancy and use them as posh vases, stylish storage containers, brilliant homeware accents or essentially anything that doesn’t involve food (that is, if you painted the inside, obviously).  

Notes: 

The faux mercury glass effect really brings your simple pieces to life. I’ve done small projects in the past but lately, I have a deep adoration for painting glassware for interior décor and gifts. You needn’t worry, after a couple of times, you will find your rhythm and the best formulas of layering to get your preferred results. 

In the end, I was pleased with Krylon’s Looking Glass the best. It was hard to find for me but I found some on Amazon. Depending on where you are do check your local art/craft stores or department stores in the home section. 

What do you think of my mason jars and mirrored makeover?