Do you have a collection of vintage or traditional Christmas ornaments that just don’t quite match your current holiday decor? Maybe you’ve inherited some sentimental pieces, or stumbled upon some charming thrifted ornaments, but their style feels a little outdated for your more modern or updated holiday vibe. Don't toss them out! With a little Primer and Country Chic Paint, you can easily breathe new life into these ornaments and create a look that suits your style.
Here’s how to take old, traditional ornaments and give them a fresh, modern update with just a few simple steps.
What You’ll Need:
- Old or Traditional ornaments (plastic, glass, or metal—anything goes!)
- Clear Bonding Primer (for smooth adhesion to any surface)
- Country Chic Paint
- Fine-grit sandpaper (optional, for prepping the surface)
- Paintbrushes (our Artist Brushes would be ideal for this project)
- Painter's tape (if you want to create specific shapes or lines)
- Protective gloves and a drop cloth (to keep your work area clean)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1. Prep Your Ornaments
Start by inspecting your ornaments. If they’re made of a smooth, non-porous material like plastic, glass, or metal, you’ll want to lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper to create a slightly rougher surface. This will help the primer and paint adhere better.
If your ornaments have intricate designs or a glossy finish, lightly sand them to remove any sheen. This will allow the paint to stick and give you a more even coverage.
Step 2. Apply a Primer Layer
Once your ornaments are clean and sanded (if needed), apply a coat of Clear Bonding Primer to ensure the new paint adheres well to the surface. The primer also helps seal the ornament and ensures an even finish.
Use a small paintbrush to apply a thin, even layer of primer over the entire surface of each ornament. Allow the primer to dry completely (typically about 30-60 minutes) before moving on to the next step.
Step 3. Choose Your Paint Colors
Now comes the fun part—choosing the new look for your ornaments! You can go modern, minimalist, or even add a pop of color to match your other décor.
- For a Modern Look: Choose neutral tones like Liquorice, Simplicity, or Pebble Beach. These timeless shades will give your ornaments a sleek, minimalist feel.
- For a Festive Touch: Use pops of reds like Poppy, green like Fireworks, or icy blue like Belle of the Ball.
- For a Pop of Color: Consider bright, trendy shades like Aurora, Bling Bling, or even a blush pink like Ooh La La for a more contemporary feel.
Country Chic Paint offers a wide range of beautiful colors to suit any style. Our paints are perfect for this project, as they provide great coverage and a beautiful matte finish. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing a few colors together or using painter’s tape to create clean lines or geometric patterns for a more modern design.
Step 4. Paint Your Ornaments
Once you've chosen your color, it's time to paint!
Using a small to medium-sized synthetic paintbrush, apply the first coat of Country Chic Paint to your ornaments. Be sure to cover all areas, and apply the paint evenly. Depending on the color and the type of ornament, you may need a second coat for full coverage. Let the paint dry completely between coats (about 1-2 hours).
If you’re going for a patterned look, use painter’s tape to mask off sections of the ornament before painting. For example, you can create a striped effect, a chevron pattern, or even simple half-and-half designs. Once the paint is dry, carefully peel off the tape for crisp, clean lines.
Step 5. Finishing Touches
Once the paint is dry you can add a few extra touches to really make the ornaments pop:
- For a more rustic or vintage feel, you can gently sand the edges once the paint is dry to reveal a little of the original ornament surface underneath. This gives the piece a “distressed” or “worn” look that’s perfect for farmhouse or shabby chic styles.
- Consider adding a bow, string, or even a little twine to give your ornament some extra charm.
- Go glam and sprinkle on some glitter for an extra festive look.
Why You’ll Love This Project:
Not only is this an affordable way to update your ornaments, but it’s also a creative, sustainable project that keeps your old treasures in circulation and adds a fresh twist to your holiday décor. Whether you’re working with sentimental hand-me-downs, thrifted ornaments, or old pieces you’ve grown tired of, this simple update can transform them into the perfect match for your new, modern look.
It’s also a great way to personalize your tree—maybe you want all your ornaments to match your contemporary living room, or you’re aiming for a more monochromatic palette. Whatever your style, this project is a simple and affordable way to create a cohesive, personalized holiday display.
Happy crafting!
