Hello, fellow crafters and art enthusiasts! If you’ve been painting for a while, you probably have a stash of brushes that have seen better days. Whether they’re caked with paint or just past their prime, don’t toss them out just yet!
Today, Misty Leonard of MD Leonard Designs is transforming these forgotten tools into dazzling art pieces using Pop of Color Paint, glitter, and UV resin. Let’s dive into this fun and eco-friendly project!
Turn Old Paint Brushes into Art
Artists often end up with brushes that are no longer usable for painting. Instead of discarding them, why not upcycle these tools into something beautiful and unique? This project not only gives new life to old brushes but also adds a personal touch to your art space or makes for a thoughtful gift.
Tips for Best Results
- Even Resin Application: Use the silicone brush to apply the resin evenly to avoid lumps or bubbles.
- Curing: Ensure each layer is fully cured before adding the next to maintain clarity and strength.
- Creative Expression: Combine different glitter colors and sizes to match your aesthetic vision.
Upcycling is not just about being eco-friendly; it’s about innovation and creativity. By repurposing old paintbrushes, you have the opportunity to transform them into something beautiful and unique, breathing new life into what would otherwise be discarded.
Creative Display and Gift Ideas
- Artistic Decor: Display your transformed brushes in a vase or mount them on a canvas for a unique wall piece.
- Personalized Gifts: Present them to artist friends or family members as a symbol of creativity and renewal.
- Studio Flair: Add them to your art studio for a pop of color and inspiration.
Other Creative Upcycling Ideas
1. Wall Art Masterpieces
Transform your old brushes into stunning wall decorations. Gather several brushes, paint the handles in vibrant colors or patterns, and mount them on a canvas or wooden board.
Arrange the brushes in a fan shape or create a more abstract design. This project turns your forgotten tools into a bold statement piece that’s sure to spark conversation.
2. Decorative Plant Markers
Add a whimsical touch to your garden with paintbrush plant markers. Paint the handles in bright colors, and use a permanent marker to write the names of your plants on the brush heads. Insert them into the soil for a charming and functional addition to your garden.
3. Unique Jewelry Pieces
For a truly unique accessory, consider turning parts of your old brushes into jewelry. The handles can be cut and shaped into beads or pendants, painted in your favorite shades, and strung onto necklaces or bracelets.
Benefits of Upcycling
- Reduce Waste: By giving old items a new purpose, you’re helping to reduce environmental waste.
- Personal Touch: Upcycled items add a unique flair to your home or make thoughtful, personalized gifts.
- Creative Outlet: Upcycling offers endless opportunities to express creativity and experiment with new techniques.
With a little creativity and the right materials, your old paintbrushes can become beautiful pieces of art, functional decor, or unique accessories. So dig out those forgotten brushes and start your upcycling adventure today.
Glitter Paint Brush Supply List
- Old paint brushes, they don't need to be clean
- Pop of Color Paint (Misty used Bordeaux, Holli Bear, Coastline, Blue Poppy, Coral Reef, and Pink Cashmere
- Coordinating glitter One fine and one Chunky (Misty used Sparkling Waters, Bella Ray, Mellow Sunrise, Toasted Chestnut, Through the Clouds, and Kaleidoscope
- Protective gloves
- Filter mask
- Silicone mat
- UV Resin
- UV Lamp
- Paint brush
- Medicine cups
- Silicone brush
Step By Step Instructions
- Begin by cleaning your old paintbrush as best you can, removing any loose bristles or debris. This ensures a smooth surface for painting and resin application.
- Select two of your favorite Pop of Color Paint shades and give your brushes a makeover. Working on half of your bristles at at time, apply a couple of coats for vibrant coverage, one on each side. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. Feel free to experiment with patterns or gradients for a more artistic touch.
- Once the paint is dry, use a silicone brush to coat one half of the bristles with a thin layer of UV resin. While the resin is still tacky, sprinkle fine glitter over the brush, ensuring even coverage. Cure under a UV lamp for a couple of minutes to set the resin.
- Repeat the same process with the other half of the brush.
- Repeat the resin application process, this time adding chunky glitter over the fine glitter. This layering creates a multidimensional sparkle effect. Again, cure under the UV lamp.
- You can leave your brushes as is. Or --- for a smooth, glossy finish, apply a final coat of UV resin over the glitter. Use the UV lamp to cure, sealing in all the sparkle and providing a durable finish.
- You could also paint your brush handles and add a decal or two once the handles dry.
The Finishing Touches
A big thanks to Misty for showing us how to make these fun and fabulous glitter paint brushes! If you loved learning from her and want to see more of her creations, you can find all her links here.
This project is a fantastic way to recycle and reimagine old brushes, turning them into a testament of creativity. So gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and let those unused paintbrushes shine with a new purpose! Happy crafting!
Pop of Color Shock Paints are sold exclusively at Counter Culture DIY. So now you have even more reasons to stop by!
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