Do you have a love-hate relationship with glitter? You love the way it enhances your DIY projects but hate the way it trails behind you long after you are done crafting. I felt the same way when I first began using glitter. Over time, I learned how to manage the greatness of glitter so that it is not intimidating. 

In today’s blog post, I provide unique tips that simplify the process of applying and cleaning glitter. Keep reading for details! 

Glitter 101: A Guide to Crafting with Glitter 

Set Up 

A successful glitter project starts on a clean and flat surface. Completely cover your workspace with a plastic table cover. Then cut a sheet of freezer paper large enough to put underneath your project. Lay it on your surface, shiny side up, and tape the four corners to the table cover. Later in this guide you will see how the freezer paper makes cleaning a breeze.  

Apply 

Glitter Paint 

Glitter paint is the most effective way to add glitter to your craft project. It can be directly applied to a surface which eliminates the need to remove excess glitter. This paint also seals the glitter, preventing it from rubbing off. Click here for my tutorial on how to make glitter paint. You can also purchase it at your favorite craft store. 

Sprinkle Glitter 

Although risky, sprinkling is still an acceptable way to apply glitter. Start by painting an even layer of glue on your project. Sprinkle just enough glitter to cover the wet glue. It is tempting, but do not blow the glitter! Allow the glue to dry and gently tap excess glitter onto the freezer paper. Repeat these steps to fill empty space or create more layers. Seal the glitter with a clear acrylic sealer. 

Glitter Paper 

Glitter paper is the easiest way to apply glitter. The tasks of painting and sprinkling are already done. Cut the amount of glitter paper you need and adhere it to your project. Glitter paper comes in handy when making letter banners and greeting cards.  

Clean 

Now for the good part…cleaning! Remove your project from the workspace. If there is a significant amount of glitter leftover, you can save it for another time. Gather the glitter to the freezer paper’s center with a dry paper towel. Fold the freezer paper in half and funnel the glitter into a small storage jar. Wipe up any remaining particles with a damp paper towel. 

Store your glitter shakers in an upright position to prevent them from spilling. Make sure the lids are tightly secured. If a lid is broken, transfer the glitter to a new container.