Give Any Glass Vase A Gorgeous Antique Silver Makeover With This Easy DIY

Every thrifter knows there's one thing always in stock at the local thrift store: glass vases. Big ones, small ones, well, you get the idea. But if you're on the hunt for an antique silver vase, a glass one just won't do — or will it? With an easy DIY, you can turn thrifted glass bottles and vases into the antique silver vase of your dreams. All it takes is a little mirror paint.

Antique silver vases aren't exactly known for being affordable. A quick glance on eBay revealed items with a price tag anywhere from $180 to $800 and up. Thankfully, clever crafters have devised a budget-friendly way to create your own by gluing together thrifted vases, coating the inside with black mirror paint, and using silver mirror paint to create an antique effect. With thrifted vases (which cost $10 or less on average) and two cans of Rust-Oleum Specialty Mirror Effect Spray Paint, you can easily DIY a high-end vase without the cost.

DIYing a faux antique mirror effect on a thrifted glass vase is easy, but some prep is required. First, set up your work area in a ventilated space. Bring your vase over and give it a good clean. A mix of distilled white vinegar and water can remove a light coating of dust, but rubbing alcohol will take care of more stubborn grime. Let the vase dry completely. If you are gluing two vases together to create a new shape, grab your glue. Superglue, like Loctite Glass Glue, or a silicone sealant, such as GE Advanced Silicone Caulk for Window & Door, are good options. Apply and let the glue dry according to the directions. Then, apply two light coats of clear glass-friendly primer, like DIYer-loved Dixie Belle Slick Stick, letting it dry completely in between coats.

The method of creating the silver effect is straightforward, but you can customize the final look with different paint colors. To create an antique silver look, spray black mirror paint inside of the vase and let it dry, then apply silver mirror paint to the outside. Spritz on a mix of half water, half vinegar while the paint is still wet to create the texture. Blot with a paper towel. Repeat until you get the right look. 

For a lighter tone, apply the silver paint to the outside of the vase, then dab on an amber alcohol ink for depth. For even more warmth, add a golden mirror paint spray and blend it in. Add a light layer of top coat and let everything dry.