If you’re a crafter who loves rustic look items, then look no further than applying Rub n Buff to Glass Projects. This method is an inexpensive way for anyone to create beautiful aged-looking etched glass projects in their home. From mason jar lanterns to simple home decor items, adding Rub n Buff can bring any ordinary project into something extraordinary! Join me as we break down this process step by step so you learn how to apply Rub n Buff with ease and confidence.

How to Apply Rub n Buff to Etched Glass Projects

I found the most adorable set of jars in the Target Dollar Spot and knew exactly what I wanted to do with them. So I busted out my Rub N Buff and Armour Etch and got to work. But full disclosure, my first attempt did not go as planned. Not totally what I envisioned, but… it was ok. Let me teach you all the inside tips and tricks on how to apply rub n buff to etched glass projects! Also, to never give up when crafting.

 So I tried again. “Never give up on your dreams,” kept running through my head, thanks to my 8th grade PE teacher, Mrs. Jones. And man, was she right. Attempt 2 on my 2nd jar in the set, turned out exactly as I had envisioned. And if I am being totally honest, I love both. The pair compliments each other so well. 

The alternating looks with the snowflake stencils and the gold leaf addition just take the jars from simple to swanky, elegant home decor. And the best part is I could complete these both in less than an hour. So if you want to see how to create your own DIY Decor to add a new touch of glamor to your home, then follow along as I show you how. Mistakes and all. 

What If I don’t have a Cricut?

To my crafting friends without a Cricut, you can still get this look. Using stickers and other stencils is an option to get this look. But I love my Cricut so much, I would highly encourage you to get one. Christmas is just around the corner. Maybe you can ask Santa for one! And then you can ask if he will give you the gift of signing up for my Cricut Academy, too. It is full of tips and tricks, step-by-step tutorials, and 6 months’ worth of free content on great crafts with your Cricut machine. Come be a CC girl (or guy) with me!

SUPPLIES NEEDED TO APPLY RUB N BUFF TO ETCHED GLASS:

• Etched White Jars from Target Dollar Spot
• Images cut from Design Space
• Stencil Vinyl 
• Transfer Tape
• Rub N Buff – antique gold, gold leaf, or silver leaf
• Etching Cream 
• Foam brush
• Latex gloves
• Pin Pen 
• Blue Painter’s Tape
• Cricut 
• Cricut Mat (unless you have Smart Vinyl that doesn’t require a mat because it is thicker)
• Puppy Pads

STEPS:

How to Apply Rub n Buff to Etched Glass Projects

Print

Materials

• Etched White Jars from Target Dollar Spot
• Images cut from Design Space
• Stencil Vinyl 
• Transfer Tape
• Rub N Buff - antique gold, gold leaf, or silver leaf
• Etching Cream 

Tools

• Foam brush
• Latex gloves
• Pin Pen 
• Blue Painter’s Tape
• Cricut 
• Cricut Mat (unless you have Smart Vinyl that doesn't require a mat because it is thicker)
• Puppy Pads

Instructions

1. Determine your desired design from Design Space on your Cricut machine. Size and shape for your specific jar. Tip* This can be used on any jar, so the exact measurements are up to you.  

2 - Have your Cricut machine cut your design out. Begin weeding your image with your weeding tool. Be patient as you prep your design. Tip* If you don’t have a Cricut, that is just fine. You can use stencils, stickers, or a dabber to add some fun designs instead. Just be creative with your etching cream. 

3 - Add your vinyl stencil to the transfer tape using your flat edge tool. Make sure it adheres completely.

4 - Add your transfer tape to your jar, to attach your stencil with ease. Tip* Save your transfer tape as it can be used again and again. 

5 - Make any weeding adjustments if needed. Use your fingers to smooth down entirely to the jar. 

6 -  Repeat as you add all around your jar, covering completely, and pushing down as hard as you can. Tip* If you have a bubble in your stencil attached, use a straight pin to release the air and rub it out.

7 - Use some blue painter’s tape to help ensure your etching cream does not go anywhere it is not supposed to as you apply. 

8 - Grab your Armour Etch and some gloves because you don’t want to get this on your skin. Use a foam brush, apply a good amount to it, and dab it on your jar in the open stenciled areas. Glob it all over. Tip* Do not do this craft with children. The etching cream is messy and not a fan of your skin. 

9 - Set aside your jar to sit for 10 minutes.

10 - Take your jar and clean off your etching cream. Dry off with a rag. Remove your painter's tape and stencils on your jar. 

11 - You can stop here and be happy. It is so dang cute as is. But if you want more, then let’s keep going. 

12 - Grab your Rub n Buff, any color you prefer. To ensure the bottom layer of your white Target jar stays clean, use painter’s tape to protect that area. 

13 - Apply your latex gloves again. Grab your Gold Leaf Rub n Buff along with a dry paper towel. Begin rubbing a tiny bit on your gloved finger, in a circular motion, all over your glass. 

14 - Once covered, lightly and quickly, begin removing the Rub N Buff to get the look you want. This look will cover the etched areas along with spots of the glass, leaving it gorgeous. Tip* If you don’t want certain areas to have it, rub a little harder to get it to come off. A q tip with rubbing alcohol can help remove it as well. 

15 - Buff as you go, adding more color if desired. Use a damp paper towel to help with some more stubborn areas, if needed. 

16 - Carefully remove the painter's tape on the bottom of the jar. 

17 - Design your beautiful new jar with some gorgeous red berry picks to elevate that Christmas DIY home decor. 

 

Armour Etch is one of those crafting supplies that seems a bit pricey when buying it at first, but I am a firm believer in having it in your craft supply, for sure. I have made so many adorable projects with this one bottle, and I have loved every single one of them.

This simple craft turned out perfect for a new addition to my Christmas and Winter decor. It would be a great gift as well. The best thing about this is that you can do it for all seasons, styles, and decor. Change out that stencil, change out the jar size, make it a dish, etc. Talk about customizable and inspirational.

Love this craft and want to learn more about ALL the things possible with your Cricut machine. I’d love to teach you. Join me today!

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