Removing glitter from ornaments can be a tedious task because glitter tends to adhere stubbornly to surfaces and can spread easily. Whether you’re looking to restore old ornaments to a former state or simply change their look, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the job done.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before starting, it’s good to have everything you need at hand. Here’s a list of materials you might need:
- Adhesive remover (e.g., Goo Gone)
- Duct tape or masking tape
- Lint roller
- A small brush or old toothbrush
- Rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover
- Cotton balls or pads
- Gloves to protect your hands
- Paper towels or old cloth
- A plastic scraper or old credit card
2. Protect Your Work Area
Lay down some newspaper or a disposable tablecloth to catch any loose glitter. This will make cleanup easier once you’re finished.
3. Try Tape First
Often, tape can pick up a lot of the glitter. Wrap a piece of duct tape or masking tape around your fingers with the sticky side out, and gently tap all over the ornament. Replace the tape as it fills with glitter and continue until you’ve removed as much glitter as possible.
4. Use a Lint Roller
If tape doesn’t remove all the glitter, you can try a lint roller. Roll it over the ornament to pick up the remaining pieces of glitter.
5. Apply Adhesive Remover
If the ornament is sturdy and won’t be damaged by chemicals, you can apply an adhesive remover. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label. Apply the adhesive remover to a cloth or directly onto the ornament, then gently rub to loosen the glitter. If the glitter is stubborn, let the remover sit for a few minutes before rubbing gently with a brush or old toothbrush.
6. Use Rubbing Alcohol or Nail Polish Remover
If adhesive remover isn’t available or suitable for your ornament’s material, you can try rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Soak a cotton ball or pad in the liquid and gently wipe the ornament. Always test a small hidden section first to make sure the solvent won’t damage the ornament’s underlying surface.
7. Scrape Away the Glitter
If the glitter is glued on and the adhesive remover has softened it, you may be able to gently scrape away the glitter with a plastic scraper or the edge of an old credit card. Do this carefully to avoid scratching the ornament.
8. Clean and Dry the Ornament
Once the glitter is removed, clean the ornament’s surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining adhesive remover or solvent. Dry with a clean, soft cloth.
9. Dispose of the Glitter Responsibly
Glitter can be harmful to the environment as it often contains plastics. Make sure to throw it away in the trash, so it doesn’t get washed into waterways. Clean your work area thoroughly to remove any glitter that might have fallen.
10. Final Touches
If you’ve removed the glitter to revamp or repaint the ornament, make sure the surface is completely clean before you begin your new project. If the ornament is to be used as is, enjoy your newly glitter-free decoration.
Please note, always handle solvent-based products with care and in a well-ventilated area. Follow all safety precautions mentioned on product labels.
Conclusion
Removing glitter from ornaments can be a bit of a challenge but with patience and the right approach, you can achieve great results. Whether you’re refreshing old decorations or repurposing them for a different style, take your time and work with care to protect both the ornaments and your workspace.