Repurpose Wine Bottles with Decoupage & Clay Embellishments

Have you ever looked at an empty wine bottle and thought, “I bet this could be beautiful”? You’re not wrong—and today’s project proves it. In this charming tutorial, our friend Donna from Mason Creations etc. walks us through a step-by-step method to upcycle a plain glass wine bottle using decoupage, chalk paint, air-dry clay, and a touch of sparkle. No special experience needed—just some inspiration and a few great products!

📺 Watch the video below to follow along with Donna’s process—then scroll down for detailed instructions you can use at home.

Step-by-Step: Wine Bottle Decoupage with Ombre Paint & Clay Embellishments

Step 1: Prep the Bottle for Crafting
Start by wiping the glass bottle clean with an alcohol wipe to remove any oils or residue. Once dry, brush on a thin, even layer of Polyvine Multi Surface Lacquer (Dead Flat finish). This removes the glass shine and gives your surface some tooth—perfect for holding paint and glue securely.

Step 2: Apply a Solid Base Coat
Donna uses Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Cotton (white), applied with a sponge for heavier coverage. Let it dry for about 30 minutes, then apply a second coat. A white base will help your rice paper image pop with color.

Step 3: Tear & Place Your Rice Paper
Choose a beautiful rice paper image. Tear away the portion you want to use, employing a water brush to create soft edges. Adhere it to the bottle using Polyvine Decorators Varnish, which doubles as an adhesive and dries clear without yellowing. Smooth wrinkles using a piece of plastic sprayed with water and pressed over the image with a paper towel.

Step 4: Seal the Image
Once dry, coat the entire area with Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish (Satin Finish). This step seals the paper and prevents future paint from clinging awkwardly to the edges of the image.

Step 5: Blend with Ombre Painting
Donna creates a gradient effect using Pentart paints—a mix of yellow, gold, vintage green, and earthy brown. She uses dampened sponges (cut into quarters) to blend colors up and around the image, making it feel cohesive and natural. A final blend at the top uses a mix of white and soft colors to feather out the finish.

Step 6: Add Air-Dry Clay Embellishments
Using Das air-dry clay, press designs into silicone molds (bee, honeycomb, and decorative trim). Freeze for 20 minutes, then unmold and allow to thaw briefly so they’re flexible. Attach while still slightly soft using Aileen’s Tacky Glue, smoothing seams with a wet brush.

Step 7: Paint & Antique the Details
Paint your molded embellishments using Pentart metallics and chalk paints, including Pine Green, Black, and Gold. Add shimmer with Dixie Belle Pearlescent Glaze and antique them using glazing medium mixed with brown or black paint. Brush it on and quickly wipe it away—it’ll stay in the crevices for added depth.

Step 8: Final Coat & Wax Buffing
Give the whole bottle and embellishments another coat of Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish. For an extra smooth finish, sand lightly between coats and use Polyvine’s Varnish Brush to reduce brush strokes. Once dry, add highlights with Decor Wax in Eternal Gold and White Pearl for added shine and detail. Buff with a soft cloth.

Wrap-Up:
From a humble wine bottle to a textured, painted, and glowing keepsake—this project shows just how far creativity can go with the right tools. Huge thanks to Donna at Mason Creations etc. for her incredible instruction and eye for detail. She always makes crafting approachable and fun!

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Happy crafting!