Nothing creates a high-end holiday look quite like the warm, earthy texture of ceramic stoneware. If you want to transform your tree this year, these DIY baking soda paint ornaments are the perfect solution. They turn inexpensive, mismatched baubles into sophisticated decor that looks like it came straight from a designer boutique.
As a mom of three, I have bins full of shiny plastic balls that have seen better days. I love Upcycled Christmas decor, but I needed a way to make those cheap plastic bulbs match my new Neutral Christmas tree theme. This project is a total “weekend reset” for your holiday collection.
In this Faux ceramic Christmas ornaments tutorial, I am going to teach you my fail-proof “Skewer Method.” Many people ask How to dry painted ornaments without smudging?, and my drying rig technique is the secret to a professional finish. Let’s grab some paint and get started!
📸 [Image-1: A stunning, high-resolution photo of the finished matte earth-toned ornaments hanging on a tree with velvet ribbon, styled in a well-lit living room.]
📝 Key Mechanics
Before we start painting, here are the essential items you need to ensure success.
- Bamboo Skewers (The secret tool!)
- Cardboard Box (To create the drying rig)
- Baking Soda (Not baking powder)
- Matte Acrylic Paint
- Clear Matte Sealer
Supplies & Equipment List
Base Decor Items:
- Old plastic ornaments (finish doesn’t matter).
- Clear fillable ornaments (for the Acrylic pour Christmas ornaments DIY variation).
Tools & Hardware:
- Acrylic craft paints (Creams, taupes, terracottas).
- Paintbrushes (Chip brushes create the best texture).
- Sandpaper (Fine grit).
- Small tea strainer (For the velvet effect).
Step 1: Prep Your Ornaments and “Drying Rig”
First, remove the metal or plastic caps from all your ornaments and set them aside. Next, take a piece of fine-grit sandpaper and lightly scuff the surface of your plastic bulbs. This rough surface helps the paint stick better so it won’t peel off later.
Now, you need to build your drying station. Take an empty cardboard box and poke holes in the top about three inches apart.
Slide an ornament onto a skewer. Test the fit by sticking the sharp end of the skewer into the holes in your box. The ornament should float above the box without touching anything.
📸 [Image-2: Close-up photo of the cardboard box “drying rig” with several unpainted ornaments standing upright on bamboo skewers.]
Step 2: Mix the “Ceramic” Paint
To get that trendy stoneware look, we need to create Textured paint for crafts using a simple kitchen ingredient. Pour one cup of acrylic paint into a disposable cup or bowl.
Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the paint. Mix it thoroughly until the baking soda is dissolved and the paint feels slightly fluffy or thick. If you want a very rough texture, add a pinch more baking soda, but don’t overdo it or it might clump.
Step 3: Apply the Base Coat
Hold the bamboo skewer and start painting your ornament. Use long, even strokes to cover the entire bulb. Because the ornament is suspended on the stick, you can paint the very bottom without getting messy fingers.
For a true “pottery” look, wait about five minutes until the paint is tacky. Then, take a dry chip brush and gently dab (stipple) the surface to create uneven texture.
📸 [Image-3: A hand holding a bamboo skewer, painting a plastic ornament with a beige baking soda paint mixture using a chip brush.]
Step 4: The Velvet Texture Hack (Optional)
If you prefer a soft, fabric look over ceramic, try DIY velvet texture ornaments. Paint the ornament with regular acrylic paint (no baking soda mixed in).
While the paint is still 100% wet, use a tea strainer to sift plain baking soda or flour over the bulb. Coat it completely until it looks like a powdered donut. Let it dry completely, then gently brush off the excess powder to reveal a soft, faux-velvet finish.
Step 5: Upgrade the Hardware
Cheap plastic caps can ruin the high-end illusion. While your bulbs are drying, take your metal or plastic caps and give them a makeover.
Squeeze a tiny amount of Rub ‘n Buff onto your finger or a cloth. Rub it onto the caps to create a stunning, aged brass finish.
📸 [Image-4: Macro shot of two ornament caps—one plain silver plastic, and one finished with gold Rub ‘n Buff to show the difference.]
Step 6: Seal and Assemble
Once the ornaments are completely dry (I wait overnight), reattach the gold caps. To protect your hard work, you need a sealer. This is a crucial Matte finish ornament hack that keeps the baking soda from flaking off in your storage bin.
Apply one thin coat of varnish. Once that dries, your Dollar Tree Christmas DIY project is ready to hang!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I keep paint from peeling off plastic ornaments?
The most important step is sanding the plastic before painting. This creates “tooth” for the paint to grab onto. Using a primer specifically for plastic can also help if you are skipping the baking soda texture.
Q: What is the ratio of paint to baking soda for texture?
A good starting point is 1 cup of acrylic paint to 1 teaspoon of baking soda. If you want a very thick, stucco-like texture, you can increase this to 1 tablespoon of baking soda, but it will dry faster.
Q: How to dry painted ornaments without smudging?
You must use a suspension system! The “Skewer Method” I detailed in Step 1 allows air to circulate around the entire bulb. Never lay wet textured ornaments on paper towels, or they will stick and ruin the finish.
Q: Can you use wall paint on ornaments?
Yes, you can use leftover latex wall paint. It is thicker than craft paint and extremely durable. However, it may take longer to dry than acrylics.
Q: How to seal DIY painted ornaments?
Always use a spray sealer or a brush-on matte varnish like Liquitex. Avoid glossy sealers, as they will ruin the realistic “ceramic” or “velvet” effect you just created.
Final Thoughts
I hope this tutorial inspires you to rescue those old decorations from the donation pile. Learning How to paint plastic ornaments to look vintage allows you to change your holiday theme every year without spending a fortune. It is amazing what a little paint and baking soda can do for Budget holiday decorating ideas.
Happy crafting, and enjoy your beautiful custom tree!
xo,
Nancy