How to Tint Bottles and Jars

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Using any glass bottle or jar, you can create gorgeous tinted containers that will look delightful sitting in front of a sunny window, sheltering a glowing candle or holding a bushel of flowers. All you need are some ready-to-recycle jars and bottles, food coloring and basic supplies.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Preparation

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  1. It helps to have an idea for how you’d like to use the bottles or jars when choosing them. For example, are you looking to create a fancy vase or do you just want a decorative jar on display?
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    Soak the glass jar or bottle in warm soapy water to remove the label and then wash the bottle or jar inside and out.
    • Rinse with clean water and dry. You may want to allow the jar/bottle to air dry especially if you are working with a narrow bottle. Don’t start your project until the bottle/jar is completely dry.
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  3. You'll need several bottles of food coloring as you will need to immerse the glass in plenty of coloring in order to obtain a more vibrant tint. Check "Things You'll Need" below for the remaining items needed to complete this project. [1]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    You will need quick access to water and a place to pour out the solution. Cover the area with newspaper in order to avoid staining the work surface or countertops with food coloring.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Tinting the Glass Bottles and Jars

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    The exact amount will vary depending on the size of the jar or bottle you're tinting.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    This may require more than one bottle of food coloring.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    Make sure the food coloring is well absorbed into the entire solution. [2]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    Cover the entire bottle or jar sides and base before returning the color back to the measuring cup. [3]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Tint Bottles and Jars
    Stand the jar or bottle upside down on top of the plate. Wait several minutes for the bottle or jar to drain before standing it upright. [4]
  6. You want the color to return to the bottom of the bottle or jar before you solidify the color.
  7. Place the set jar or bottle in the oven on the bottom rack at 170ºF/77ºC (or the lowest possible temperature) and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the bottle or jar is dry and transparent. [5]
  8. Use hot pads to remove the gummy substance that congregates along the top of the glass.
  9. Place on display. The jars are particularly striking when a candle is lit inside them (a bottle is usually a bit too narrow).
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    When I place the pieces in the oven, the solution runs down the sides, causing streaks. How do I prevent this?
    Community Answer
    You are supposed to tip it upside-down after coating it with paint (step five) until it drains. Then stand it upright for a while until all the remaining paint has settled at the bottom of the jar. The streaking will not be a problem then.
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    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 19
  • Question
    Is there an easier way than using watered down PVA glue?
    Community Answer
    Glass paint works.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 17
  • Question
    Can I use acrylic color instead of food color?
    Community Answer
    Acrylic is a water-based color medium. While it will blend very well into the mod podge, it doesn't actually "stain" as much as the food dye. It also might melt or dissolve when washed.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Tips

      • For darker colored bottles, repeat the process after you’ve baked the jar or bottle once it’s cooled.
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      • The color will come off of the bottle or jar if soaked in hot soapy water, so keep that in mind during use.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Glass bottles and/or jars
      • Soapy water and cleaning cloth
      • Mod Podge
      • Food coloring
      • Pourable measuring cup (for mixing and pouring the solution into the jars or bottles)
      • Paper plate and aluminum foil (used as a draining station for the bottle/jar)

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      References

      1. ↑ https://handsonaswegrow.com/holidays-seasons/holidays/mothers-day/
      2. ↑ https://handsonaswegrow.com/how-to-tint-mason-jars/
      3. ↑ https://www.momtastic.com/diy/168908-diy-tinted-mason-jars-in-rainbow/
      4. ↑ https://www.momtastic.com/diy/168908-diy-tinted-mason-jars-in-rainbow/
      5. ↑ https://handsonaswegrow.com/how-to-tint-mason-jars/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Tinted bottles and jars can make a great decorative addition to your home. To make one, you’ll need a clean jar, food coloring, and Mod Podge. First, pour 3 parts Mod Podge and 1 part water into a measuring cup. Add the food coloring you want until you get a deep color. Pour a small amount into your jar or bottle, then swirl it around so it covers the sides. Then, pour out the excess solution and allow your jar to set for 1 hour. Once it’s set, bake your bottle or jar in the oven at the lowest temperature for 20 minutes. To learn how to make your jars into candle holders, read on!

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