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DIY Chinese New Year Decor Idea

Inspired by Chinese New Year and the use of a red and gold theme, we created this simple yet elegant DIY decor idea using large glass jars, some translucent red paint and lovely gold leaf sheets.

Chinese new year mason jar decor idea with twinkling lights.

DIY Chinese New Year Decorations

As this was the first time we added the gold leaf accent to any of our projects, we were actually not sure how it would come together. It took a bit of experimenting before we got a handle on the technique but we love the final result! It’s a clever way of adding glimmer and elegance without a lot of cost.

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Close up of the Chinese new year mason jar with twinkle lights.

Now that the jars are finished, I can see them also being used for Christmas, Valentines or for anyone that loves having a pop of red in their home decor!

Materials Needed

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Chinese new year decor idea using a glass jar, paint brushes, glue and gold leaf.

Instructions for Making this Chinese New Year Decoration:

Preparing the Glass Jars

Thoroughly wash jars with soap and hot water and let them dry completely before using. Additionally, use rubbing alcohol and a clean paper towel to wipe away any prints or smudges.

With the lid removed, place the jar upside down on a protected surface. Apply an even coat of stained glass aerosol spray paint to the surface following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Leave paint to dry fully and then apply a second coat of spray paint. Continue until the desired amount of coverage is achieved. 

Red spray painted glass jar.

Applying the Gold Leaf

Next, apply the gold leaf to only the rim of the jar. 

Working small sections at a time, use a paint brush to brush on a thin layer of glue on the jar rim. 

Using a paint brush to add glue to the rim of a painted mason jar.

Gently press a sheet of gold leaf over the rim of the jar and break away the excess gold leaf. 

Continue working around the rim until it’s fully covered. 

Removing excess gold leaf from the rim of the mason jar.

Insert a set of pretty twinkle lights inside the jar to complete this Chinese New Year decoration. Style the jars with other red and gold decorations such as red votive candle holders, gold sequins and metallic gold stackable boxes to complete the look. To stay in the know on our latest crafts, special offers and freebie, be sure to join our mailing list

Chinese new year mason jar decor idea with twinkle lights next to red candle holders.

More Glass Jar Crafting Ideas

Aside from Chinese New Year decorations, we have plenty of other DIY holiday decor ideas. Here are just a few other posts you can find on the blog:

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Chinese new year mason jar decor idea with text overlay.

DIY Chinese New Year Decor Idea

Jane and Sonja
Inspired by Chinese New Year, this red and gold themed decor idea is made from glass jars, translucent paint and gold leaf sheets.
5 from 2 votes

Materials
  

  • 1 Jar 1L Smooth Rounded Jar with shoulders; lid removed
  • Krylon Stained Glass Aerosol Paint in Cranberry Red
  • Imitation Gold Leaf for crafting
  • Clear drying craft glue
  • Small angled paint brush
  • Twinkle lights

Instructions
 

  • Thoroughly wash jars with soap and hot water and let them dry completely before using.
  • With the lid removed, place the jar upside down on a protected surface. Apply an even coat of stained glass aerosol spray paint to the surface following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Leave paint to dry fully and then apply a second coat of spray paint.
  • Next, apply the gold leaf to only the rim of the jar.
  • Working small sections at a time, use a paint brush to brush on a thin layer of glue on the jar rim.
  • Gently press a sheet of gold leaf over the rim of the jar and break away the excess gold leaf.
  • Continue working around the rim until it’s fully covered.
  • Insert a set of twinkle lights inside the jar.
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Tutorial Rating




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