Here’s a simple and creative DIY recipe for making alcohol ink bottle lights—a gorgeous craft project that combines upcycled bottles, vibrant alcohol ink, and LED fairy lights to make glowing, colorful decorations.
✨ Alcohol Ink Bottle Lights – DIY Recipe
🧪 Materials Needed:
-
Empty clear glass bottles or jars (wine bottles, mason jars, etc.)
-
Alcohol inks (in various colors; available at craft stores or online)
-
Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) (optional, for blending and cleanup)
-
Protective gloves and work surface covering (alcohol ink stains!)
-
Cotton swabs or droppers (for applying ink)
-
Battery-operated LED fairy lights (cool white or warm white work well)
-
Clear sealant spray (optional) for long-term protection
🎨 Instructions:
Step 1: Clean the Bottles
-
Wash the bottles thoroughly and remove any labels or residue.
-
Dry completely before applying ink.
Step 2: Apply Alcohol Ink
-
Wear gloves and protect your surface.
-
Drip alcohol ink directly onto the outside of the bottle (or inside, if you want a more diffused effect).
-
Allow the ink to drip and flow organically. You can tilt the bottle for artistic streaks or use isopropyl alcohol to dilute or blend colors.
-
Optional: Use a straw or canned air to blow the ink for a more marbled effect.
Step 3: Let It Dry
-
Set the bottles aside to dry for several hours. Alcohol ink dries quickly, but thicker applications may need longer.
-
Once dry, you can spray with a clear sealant if you want to make them more durable (especially if placed outdoors or handled often).
Step 4: Insert Fairy Lights
-
Carefully insert the LED fairy lights into the bottle. Make sure they are battery-operated (safer than plug-in).
-
If your lights are on wire, you can twist and shape them for even distribution inside the bottle.
Step 5: Display!
-
Turn on the lights, place the bottles on a shelf, porch, or as a centerpiece, and enjoy the glowing color show.
💡 Tips:
-
Try using different shaped bottles for visual variety.
-
Add embellishments like twine, charms, or paint to the bottle necks.
-
You can also use frosted glass spray for a soft, diffused glow.