Being the busy little procrastinator I am, it took me a few months to procure some paint and mugs that I liked, but I finally gave it a go today! Here I am to share my thoughts on my first attempt and some tips on what worked and what didn't!
First off I'd like to say, I now want to hydro-dip anything that will stand still long enough. Hell, I might even throw the dog in there if he gets feisty. It takes a little finesse, but what a cool effect!
I chose plain, square-bottom white coffee mugs that were $1.99 each from Walmart, and some cheap nail polish in matching colors. I also picked up a few fine point paint markers in matching colors in case I wanted to add little details or wording when they were done. I actually really like the end result, with the exception of the fact that I would like to learn how to control the placement a bit better in upcoming projects.
Things that I learned during this crafty experiment:
- Nail polish on water dries exceptionally fast - so work quickly!
- Nail polishes with glitter in them do NOT work well and ends up with a very blotchy/muddy appearance when dried, which is sad, cause I totally wanted glittery mugs! I am now determined to find a way!
- Rolling the mug from side to side in a long pan works best to cover the entire mug with color.
Wanna start dippin'?! You will need:
- Whatever you would like to hydro-dip. Hydro-dipping can be done on a variety of materials, including glass, which allows you to decorate mugs, bowls, plates, vases, mirrors, frames...the sky is the limit!
- A few colors of nail polish - avoiding glittery formulas.
- A large plastic container (Your container should fit whatever you will be dipping)
- Foil or wax paper to dry your creation on!
To Do:
- Fill the container 2/3 full with luke-warm water
- Apply 2-3 drops of eah nail polish on top of the water randomly, dripping colors over one another and using a toothpick to drag, swirl and alter the nail polish however you like. Work quickly!!
- Slowly dip your chosen object into the water, rolling it to cover all sides with nail polish evenly. If you are dipping a piece that will not be used for food - like these mugs - you may completely immerse the piece for full coverage.
- Lift out of the water carefully and place on foil or wax paper to cure fully (I left mine for 24 hours).
- Revel in your amazingly gorgeous finished project, you crafty little thing!
Have you tried hydro-dipping? Share your experience! What did you dip? How did it turn out? What are your tips and tricks for perfect dipping?
