If Your Face Has Pores You Should Give Charcoal A Chance!

I like to switch up my skin care routine every once in a while to target specific needs, especially as seasons change. Since we’ve had a few humid days here in NY, I think it’s wise to consider some products to keep skin feeling refreshed and renewed.

Activated charcoal, also called activated carbon, is ideal for “detoxing” skin (especially oily or acne-prone skin) and drawing out bacteria and toxins (which increases the more you sweat and stew in your summer makeup–Eww!).

The carbon in the charcoal itself acts like a magnet, grabbing the impurities trapped in your pores and gradually pulling it out of your skin without drying it out. I find that products containing active ingredients like charcoal and clay might cause a minor breakout when used for the first time.

If you check out Google or YouTube, you’ll find a bevy of uses for this stuff, including water filtering, DIY teeth whitening, antidote to poisons and doctors may administer a dosage for treatment of diarrhea and alcohol poisoning/drug overdose (of course, please consult a doctor before ingesting!).

This article explains a bit more of the science, this article breaks down the most common uses, and this article gives some us some interesting history–Did you know charcoal was used as early as 3750 B.C. by ancient Egyptians and that the “father of modern medicine” himself, Hippocrotes, began using charcoal for medicinal purposes around 50 A.D.?

 

Now that you know a bit more about nature’s original detox agent, why not consider adding it to your beauty regimen?

Two products I have been enjoying are from Bioré and Freeman:

Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser

Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser (8.46 Fl. Oz.)

Average Price:  $7.99 USD

Product Claim: “Draws out and traps 2x more dirt & impurities than a basic cleanser, purifying pores to leave your face deeply cleaned and your skin tingly-smooth. Pore are twice as clean after just one use.”

Ingredients: WATER, GLYCERIN, SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE, COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE, SORBITOL, LAURETH-­‐4 CARBOXYLIC ACID, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, ACRYLATES/C10-­‐30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, METHYLPARABEN, FRAGRANCE, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, MENTHOL, POLYQUATERNIUM-­‐39, DISODIUM EDTA, PROPYLPARABEN, CHARCOAL POWDER, MANNITOL, CELLULOSE, IRON OXIDES, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE, HYDROXYPROPYL METHYLCELLULOSE

First Impression: The consistency is like a thick gel with tiny beads. The gel has a mentholated/cooling effect and the beads are very gentle, less for exfoliating and more for helping to move the product around the face. There is a slight minty, fresh fragrance but I actually like it (I don’t find it too overpowering).

I like to wet my face, take a very small amount (pea size) to create a light lather and apply it onto my skin for 1-2 minutes.

I prefer to use this face wash daily–especially on a hot day, after a workout or in the shower, as it is very refreshing and cooling.

 

 

 

Freeman Facial Polishing Mask Charcoal & Black Sugar

 

Freeman Facial Polishing Mask Charcoal & Black Sugar (6.0 Fl. Oz.)

Average Price: $4.00 USD

Product Claim: “This unique mask and scrub works double time to detox skin. First, naturally purifying Activated Charcoal helps absorb oil and impurities without over-drying. Then, Black Sugar helps exfoliate away dulling skin cells for softness and clarity. Perfect for all skin types.”

Ingredients:

Key Ingredients: 
Activated Charcoal
Sugar
Coconut Extract

Ingredient List:
Sucrose, Propylene Glycol, Carbon*, Kaolin, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract , Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Maranta Arundinacea Root Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Extract, Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract, Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Aleurites Moluccana Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), Iron Oxide (CI 177491).
*Activated Charcoal

First Impression: This mask/scrub combo pretty much matches the description. The consistency is just like a concentrated sugar scrub paste for the body (why not use on your legs, too!) that goes on fairly easily. This is not your typical cream, clay or gel mask.

I like to apply a generous amount and make sure to keep it away from the eye area. I would recommend lightly wetting the face first so the paste has something to adhere to and moving the scrub around to help the formula enter the pores. The formula has a slight fruity, clean fragrance and actually feels luxurious on the skin. You only need 5-7 minutes for the mask to dry so you could definitely do this in the morning before school or work.

Unlike the Bioré cleanser, this formula actually feels warm once I work it into my skin. It could just be heat caused by the pressure from the black sugar granules, but it feels nice and calming. The scrub is gentle enough to use 2-3 times per week, depending on the condition of your skin.

 

Check out this video for a quick lesson on the difference between absorption and adsorption. Do you remember learning about this in school?

 

Have you tried using activated charcoal in your skin care routine? Let me know!

 

Mink: The Personal 3D Makeup Printer

 

Michelle Phan “Robot Chic” YouTube Billboard, NYC

 

If you’ve been around New York City recently, watched networks like ABC Family, or opened a copy of Allure, you may have noticed the YouTube campaign featuring the biggest beauty gurus. It’s no wonder we continue to witness the rise of beauty bloggers and vloggers; The Internet is a huge force in revolutionizing the concept of beauty and how we consume beauty products.

We buy and sell cosmetics online, review beauty products online, and watch countless makeup tutorials online. Wouldn’t it make sense to eventually create our own makeup at home with the help of the Internet and 3D printing technology? Yes!

All you fellow tech geeks out there might be familiar with TechCrunch Disrupt and some of the hype surrounding 3D printing. But what does that have to do with the beauty industry? Imagine taking the color from any image on your phone or computer and printing custom makeup at home–essentially creating your own personal Sephora (okay, maybe that’s just me being really hopeful).

I was so excited to see this article and demo spotlighting Mink, a mini 3D makeup printer created by Grace Choi, a Harvard Business School grad.

Grace Choi, Mink at TechCrunch Disrupt

Mink, The Makeup Printer

You basically use any image software to identify a specific color, copy and paste the Hex Code and send the color to print. Choi’s prototype currently produces a powder eyeshadow pigment, but she explains the printer would also be able to create lipsticks, foundations and creams.

The evaluated price point is $300.00 for the printer (no set price yet for the ink/substrates). If you’re intrigued, you can request an invite to receive further updates regarding Mink.

I wonder about the quality of the “ink” and pigment ingredients. Even though Choi mentions the ink is FDA-compliant, I would like to know the composition in comparison to other trusted brands. Also, what else could the software and printer produce?

Will this technology really drive down the cost of cosmetics and help consumers save money in the long run? I hope so!

Regardless, the emerging 3D printing technology is pretty exciting and I like to think that an at-home makeup factory could be on the horizon!

Take a moment to watch this demo and let know what you think. What type of beauty product or invention would you create?

 

 

 

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the fabulous moms out there 🙂

Only a parent can truly understand the sacrifice and support that goes into loving someone unconditionally, and a mother has the special power to show you how to be beautiful inside and out.

I make it a point to thank my mom for being amazing and to let her know that her strength and passion has paved the foundation for me and my sister to grow into confident, independent women with big dreams and ambitions. I know I should show her my appreciation more often and I hope she knows that all my hopes and accomplishments are because she first believed in me.

If you are fortunate to have your mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, or daughter please take a moment to connect and share your love with them. Celebrate them. Cherish them ❤

 

Beauty Retail: Kenig +Alcone

 

Here’s to a beautiful Friday (despite the gloomy weather)!

I got excited when I read this article on Fashionista.com about Kenig +  Alcone, a new beauty and hair store in NYC!  Yay to more beauty retail therapy 🙂

I have not been there yet, but will be checking it out very soon. The address is 538 Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave & 14th street).

The founder of the NYC beauty and costume staple, Ricky’s, has opened this ‘beauty lab’ that carries a wide variety of beauty tools, cosmetics and even hard to find hair pieces and salon products. There is an in-store salon and the website states they will be offering hair and makeup classes for all you aspiring MUAs!

There are also several “daily deals” posted on their Facebook page.

I think the concept of a one-stop beauty candy store is amazing. According to the article, they will eventually have more MUA’s available for makeup application, and they will even apply your falsies for free when you purchase eye lashes!

Has anyone checked out Kenig + Alcone? Thoughts?

 

 

Signs of Spring

It’s Spring in New York. It’s still chilly, but the sun is glowing in all its glory.

Signs of spring are popping up everywhere in fashion and beauty, which means there are so many new items to covet and try. Below are a few items on my Spring wish list!

To get you into the mood for the season, here’s a Spring To-do List from Glitter Guide:

 

 

Other things I’m loving for Spring?

A burst of sheer energy: High-performance Naturals set in Energy from Tarte ($10.00, what a steal!)

Natural Radiance: The Forever Nude Makeup Palette from BH Cosmetics (it is now on sale for $11.95!)

 

 

Lavender, Rose and Sugar Pink: Esmeralda Bubble Statement Necklace from Olive +Piper ($36.00)

Mix of translucent and lucite accents: Mini Ombre Links from BaubleBar (for a limited time, $20.00)

Earthy Statement pieces: Tortoise Monaco Collar from BaubleBar ($46.00)

Black, White and Yellow: Vintage-inspired jewelry from Catbird (prices vary)

 

The new T-shirt dress: T-Shirt + Pencil Skirt + Strappy Sandal from H&M Spring 2014, feat. Miranda Kerr (prices vary)

 

 

What are you lusting for at the moment?

 

Spring Renewal Tea

It’s officially spring (finally!) and it’s time to feel renewed.

Each morning is a chance to set the stage for the rest of the day, so I like to make sure I do at least one good thing for myself. Stretching, meditating and drinking tea make up my ideal routine. If you can’t do all three, try this tea recipe. You can sip it while you get ready and take it on the go.

Okay, I call this a tea–even though the base has no tea leaves! You can certainly add this mixture along with your favorite teas or drink alone for a simple, all-natural morning detox.

This recipe is so simple, affordable and guaranteed to rejuvenate you and put a ‘spring’ in your step.

What you will need:

• 1 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger (fresh ginger root or organic minced ginger from the market)
• Half lemon (clean lemon skin with 1 part vinegar + water mixture)
• 1 teaspoon organic honey (optional)
• 1 mint leaf (optional)

Steps:

Heat the water (on stove or microwave).

Stir in ginger and mix well.

Squeeze half a lemon (or more, according to your preference).  I like to keep the lemon peel in the tea. If you choose to use only the juice, try re-using the lemon peel to freshen your garbage can, add to a home-made cleaning spray or add to the compost for your garden!

Try some organic honey if you want to add a bit of sweetness.

The key to this tea is to drink it every morning–before you eat breakfast and even before drinking coffee or a smoothie. Sip slowly, while you medicate, watch news or catch up on emails.

Enjoy the natural flavors and let the ginger and lemon detox your system. Ginger and lemon both have energizing qualities and help boost your immune system all year long.

Tip: You can chill this tea and enjoy on warmer days. Add some mint (or mint ice cubes) for a cooling effect.

Now, take a deep breath. Exhale. Acknowledge the beautiful sunlight and get ready for an amazing day 🙂

Spotlight: Beauty & Style Apps

Too busy to fit in that long-over due haircut? Forgot to schedule that appointment to weed-wack the upper lip fuzz? It’s been a busy start to the year but don’t let crazy schedules keep you from pampering and looking fresh!

I want to spotlight a few useful beauty and style apps that can help you stay chic while you’re on-the-go:

StyleBee

Type of service: StyleBee is a team of professionally trained stylists and makeup artists who are available to come to your home, office or hotel room. Before booking, be sure to check out their tips for the best way to prepare for an appointment.

• Blowouts
• Style and Makeup
• Only Makeup
• Updos
• Updos and Makeup
• Massage (in select locations)

Coming soon:

• Eyelash extension
• Mani/Pedi

Why it’s worth a try: If you are super busy or not sure which salon to book with, why not have the professional come to you? Have a party to attend? Inquire about group rates.

Link: https://www.stylebee.com

Beautified

Type of service: Same day booking for beauty and spa appointments. The Beautified team searches for the best partnered establishments to ensure you get the service you want:

• Haircut
• Bikini Wax
• Massage
• Blowout
• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Brow Wax
• Facial
• Makeup

Why it’s worth a try: Have a last minute interview or date? Never fear being turned away at a spa or salon because you don’t have an appointment!

Link: http://www.getbeautified.com

 

Flink

Type of service: Mobile fashion source connecting you to your favorite fashion and style bloggers and helps you discover and share their style.

• Follow your favorite bloggers
• Discover new bloggers
• Engage with the fashion community
• Easily share your style inspirations on multiple social media platforms

Why it’s worth a try: Take your blog roll up a notch and start a dialogue with other fashion junkies. Learn style tips from bloggers you admire and find new bloggers to adore.

 Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id798552697

Styletag

Type of service: A curated stream of the most cutting-edge street style looks you can shop. Create your own Lookbook and follow the streams of fashion designers, models and celebs.

Why it’s worth a try: Great coverage of Fashion Week trends and simple format for sharing your inspiration. See what fashion influencers are into and buy the looks you love.

Link: http://www.style-tag.com

Have you tried these apps? What do you think about them? What apps do you use to make your day even more fabulous?

My Funny Valentine…

Ah, St. Valentine’s Day…one of my favorite holidays since childhood. All the reds and pinks and candy. Memories of making valentines for everyone in the class and exchanging candy grams with my friends.

This year I wanted to bring Valentine’s Day back to basics and make my own simple V-Day cards. In case you forgot, Valentine’s Day is this Friday, so you still have time to make your own sweet treats.

For some seriously adorable handmade holiday cards, check out Cherry Blossom Tree Designs!

Inspired by these handmade beauties, I will show you how you can personalize your valentines this year:

Card #1 Heart of Gold 

Card #2 S.W.A.K.

Heart of Gold

Valentines don’t have to be romantic or for your significant other. They can be given to friends and family as a token of how much you love and appreciate them. This ‘Heart of Gold’ card is for my parents, since their unconditional love comes from their hearts, which are made of gold.

What you need:

• Card stock (plain or with preferred design)
• Mod Podge (I used a glossy finish since I already had it. You can also try Mod Podge in a matte finish for paper products)
• Foam brush or regular brush
• Stiff paper to cut out heart stencil (any heart-shaped stencil you might already have)
• Scissors
• Gold glitter
• Gold paint pen

First, select the size of card stock to be used and decide if you are making a horizontal or vertical design.

Take a sheet of thick or stiff paper (I used resume paper) and cut out a heart shape that will fit comfortably on the face of the card. This will create a disposable stencil. You can try the grade school method I show below or use something like a heart shape cookie cutter to trace the stencil.

You can use the cut out heart for another card idea or other craft projects.

Line the heart stencil on the face of the card and make sure it is centered. Since I folded the paper to cut my heart stencil, I used the center fold as my guide.

You can tape the stencil paper onto your table or place weighted items on the corners to help keep paper in place.

Grab a generous amount of Mod Podge on your brush and apply an even layer of glue over the heart stencil. Try to keep the application even on the edges of the heart, otherwise the glue can bleed under the stencil and warp the shape.

Let the glue dry for about 20 seconds so it becomes tacky. Then apply your glitter over the glue. Try to apply the glitter evenly.

Let the glitter sit on the glue for another 20-30 seconds, then use your clean finger to gently press the glitter onto the glue.

Allow the glitter to adhere to the glue for 15-20 minutes (follow drying instruction listed on the bottle).

Once the glitter has rested for the necessary time, you can carefully shake off excess glitter and clean the edges with your clean finger, tissue or clean brush.

Then, realign the stencil over the heart. Try to be as exact as you can so the edges match up.

Dip your used brush into the Mod Podge and gently apply another even layer of glue over the glitter. This layer will seal the glitter and avoid fall out.

Allow the top layer of glue to dry for 15-20 minutes.

Once the top coat is dry, brush off remaining loose glitter and proceed in using the gold paint pen or marker to write the text.

*You don’t have use the same text or glitter color. Go ahead and use whatever colors and text you want!

S.W.A.K. (Sealed With A Kiss)

The ‘S.W.A.K.’ card was inspired by one of my favorite stationary and sticker sets from Lisa Frank (remember her?).

This card can be as cheeky, sexy or sentimental as you want. For my version, I will include a personal message listing a few ways kissing a certain someone is my favorite thing to do!

What you will need:

• Card stock (plain color may allow the lipstick to pop more)
• Your favorite lipsticks
• Pen or marker of your choice
• Hairspray (optional)

This card is so simple, yet so cute. The idea is to have your own kisses fill the card like love confetti. You can do a random pattern like I did, or if you have more space on your card you could do one kiss per reason/written line.

To begin, I went ahead and used a gold paint pen to write the main text (you can leave space on the inside to write a personal note).

Once the ink is dry, get to smooching!

I chose a mix of pink and red lip colors that were vibrant and matte (Sonia Kashuk & Maybelline are awesome). I wouldn’t suggest using a moisturizing lipstick or lipgloss, as the color can transfer and smudge very easily.

Apply a thick layer of lipstick to your lips, adding extra pigment to the center.

Pucker your sexy pout and plant that sucker straight onto the card. Hold and press your lips then gently rock the card side to side to capture your entire lip.

Write your message and remember to seal the envelope (and your special someone) with a kiss!

Optional: To help seal the lipstick, I applied a light mist of Moroccanoil hairspray. The hairspray acts as sealant that dries instantly. Please DO NOT use a heavy spray or gel hairspray. Only use a hairspray that has a fine fist and low alcohol content. And of course, do not allow this card or hairspray to come into contact with heat or flames!

*You do not have to use pink or red lipstick. If you have a signature color that will drive your special someone wild–use it!

*Before you KISS, click here: Try a homemade lip scrub to make sure your lips are smooth and hydrated!

The most important thing to do for Valentine’s Day is have fun and celebrate L.O.V.E!

DIY: Alice’s Tea Cup Candles

Alice’s Tea Cup Candles

It’s February and I am on a crafting kick, fueled by inspiration from a few special occasions coming up this month.

My recent project is transforming vintage inspired tea cups into candles. The tea cup is the ultimate dainty, feminine and whimsical accessory. Whether you choose to use it for tea time or as a decoration, who doesn’t love a cute cup and candle?

My sister gave me my first miniature Barbie tea set when I was really young, and I was stoked. The little set was legit and made me feel like such a lady. And then my fascination with tea time was born!

Below is the most similar image I could find that resembles my first tea set:

{Photo Courtesy of The Find}

What’s great about this DIY idea is that while the candle burns, it actually looks like a cup of tea and once the candle is done, you can clean out the soy wax and re-use the cup for real tea (or to hold jewelry, candies, flowers)! It’s also a fairly easy process and can be inexpensive if you shop around for the materials and are clever with items you already own.

The cute factor is sky-high and they make sweet, thoughtful gifts for a housewarming, birthday, party favors and even Valentine’s Day.

Bright Idea: As a gift, I would pair the tea cup candle with a tin of tea or tea cakes and macarons.

Another inspiration comes from my birthday a few years back, when I planned a grown-up Alice in Wonderland theme (including libations served in tea cups). I would have loved to have made tea cup candles for all my guests!

Tick Tock, Tick Tock…It’s Tea Party Time!

I purchased the main materials (soy wax, wicks and fragrance) from Michaels (approximately $15.00). I picked up a few tea cups from HomeGoods (average price $8.00 per cup and saucer) and I also recommend checking out your local thrift store or ask friends and family members if they have any tea cups they can part with to help lower cost.

I prefer soy wax as it tends to burn cleaner and longer than regular wax. I suppose you could try to repurpose chunks of left over wax or melts, but I would suggest that you stick to one fragrance or make sure the fragrances you combine will complement one another and that the colors will not clash.

Since this was my first attempt, I decided to go ahead and buy wax at the store with a 40% off one item coupon instead of ordering online. Going forward, I recommend checking online to buy these items in bulk and for a better deal. Trust me, one pound of soy wax was just enough to fill three tea cups. If you decide to do try this project with young ones, please make sure to monitor them and the stove!

What you will need:

• Tea cups of all variety (the more the merrier and a tea party you will certainly have!) *Make sure the cup can withstand a heat range of 120° to 160°.
• At least one pound of Soy candle wax (or any type of wax you prefer) *You will need to use more wax than you think.
• Waxed wicks *Make sure to measure the depth of your cups, bowls or containers and use a wick at least one inch taller.
• Fragrance/Scent (optional)
• Wax Dye (optional)

To Melt the Wax:

• Double boiler (optional) *I will show you how I used a tin can and metal milk frothing jug.
• Old saucepan with spout (optional) * If you choose to use an old pan, make sure you are okay with dedicating this for candle making only as wax can damage the sauce pan. You can probably purchase an old one at a thrift store for minimal cost.
• Candy thermometer (optional)
• Pair of tongs with rubber/silicon grip
• Heat resistant glove
• Hot glue gun and glue stick to adhere wick to bottom of cup

What I had at home instead of a double boiler or a pan I could “damage”:

• Sauce pan *This one will not come in contact with the wax
• 14.05 oz green been can (label removed)
• Ikea milk frothing jug
• Chopstick to mix melted wax and keep wick in place

How to make a Tea Cup Candle:

First, you will need to clean and dry the cup.

Use the hot glue or a temporary adhesive to allow the tab of the wick to stay in place.

Fill the saucepan about half way with water and begin to boil. Once you achieve a strong boil, you are ready.

I had to experiment with the amount of wax to place into the tin can. I learned quickly that you will need to double, if not triple the volume of wax as it will melt to about 2/3 the original volume.

I did not have a candy thermometer handy, so I used my best judgment on the status of melted wax. If you do have a candy thermometer, pay attention to the heating instructions on the soy wax. Soy wax tends to be softer so the melting point could range from 122° to 160°. The wax I purchased was microwavable, but I chose to use my stove top.

I used a saucepan and 14.5 oz clean green bean tin can to create a double boiler effect. The double boiler essentially uses the heat from the boiling water to heat the wax in a separate container (not all waxes can or should be melted in a microwave), and this is the quickest way to melt the wax.

Once the wax begins to melt, use a disposable chopstick to stir the wax. Once the wax is completley melted in the tin can, change the heat setting to low and allow the wax to cool slightly (about 30 seconds). Once the wax has cooled you can add dye or fragrance if desired (read the instructions for each).

I used the chopstick again to mix in the fragrance into the wax. I used my tongs to grab the middle of the tin, squeezed it tight and carefully poured it into the milk frothing jug.

Moving somewhat quickly, I used the milk frothing jug to transfer the wax into the cup. Pour enough so the wax reaches about half an inch from the rim. I placed another chopstick across the cup to prop up the wick to keep it straight.

Allow cups to cool undisturbed for at least 4-6 hours before burning.

Cut the wick to about 1/4 of an inch and enjoy!

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I cannot wait to include one of these beauties as part of a tea party themed bridal shower this weekend! If you are in New York, you might be familiar with the lovely brunch spot, Alice’s Tea Cup (there are a few locations, each one a “chapter”).

This is the perfect venue to indulge in tea time and exchange your personalized tea cup candles!

{Click on the photos above for the original links}

Mod Podge & Glitter Mason Jars

What am I doing this Super Bowl weekend? Mod Podging, of course!

In particular, I am dressing mason jars in gold glitter. I love the simple, rustic look of a mason jar and I appreciate how functional they are. This type of jar has been around since the 1800s and can be used to store food, homemade sauces and preserves, used as a cup to drink from, candle holder, pen holder, money jar–the possibilities are endless.

I recommend having a few small and large jars in the pantry just in case. You can buy them or you can repurpose pasta sauce and jam jars.

For this project I purchased a few of the classic Kerr and Ball jars from Michaels. They were fairly inexpensive (about $1.49 for small clear Kerr to $2.49 for large clear Kerr jar and $15.00 for a box of six antique blue-tinted Ball jars) and the best part of shopping at Michaels is you rarely have to pay full price.

If you sign up for their email sales circular or download their free app, you will receive at least one %40 off one regular item coupon (among others) every week. Sometimes they include coupons on your receipt–so make sure to check your receipt before you file to toss it! Essentially there is no need to pay full price at Michaels.

If you do not have a Michaels or local craft/kitchen supply store, check online and you can probably find a good deal there.

Okay, so I am new to Mod Podge, the amazing water-base glue and sealant. This stuff is not Elmer’s glue, folks, although it is easy for young people to use as well. I’ve heard of it but never thought I would need it until I saw pictures of beautiful, shimmery glittered jars. I immediately bought myself some jars and a bottle of Gloss finish Mod Podge and got to work.

Now I am hooked!

I didn’t know where to start, so my sister sent me a link to this incredible Mod Podging Pro: Mod Podge Rocks Blog. This blog is filled to the brim with tips, tutorials and DIY inspiration. You can also check out Pinterest and YouTube for some great guides.

Below are some tips on how you can Mod Podge and glitter your jars (cups, bowls, picture frames or whatever you want!). These make precious center pieces and gifts, too!

Proceed with caution: This DIY project is messy, sparkly and addictive!

What You Will Need:

• 1 bottle of Gloss finish Mod Podge
• 1 medium and 1 small sponge brush (regular paint brush is optional, although it might be easier to re-use and dispose sponges)
• Glitter (I used fine gold glitter from Martha Stewart Crafts)
• Painter’s tape if you want to create lines or angles
• Any item that could use some sparkle
• Old newspaper or magazine to catch excess glitter and rest wet brushes

Whether you are adding glitter to the inside or outside of the jar, first apply a generous, even layer of the Mod Podge.  If you are adding glitter to the inside, you can pour some Mod Podge first, rotate the jar to spread it and then use the sponge brush to smooth it out.

You can also try dampening the sponge tip for a smoother application.

Once you have added the Mod Podge to the desired area, tap plenty of glitter all over and rotate or move the jar side to side to ensure glitter comes in contact with the glue. You do not need to tap off the excess glitter unless you want a very light coat.

One thing to note is a thin layer of Mod Podge can dry fairly quickly, so try to work at a faster pace if you are covering a large area in one application. Otherwise, you can glue and glitter one area first and then finish the rest at another time.

Let the glue dry, as directed in the instructions. Once the glue has dried, you can apply another top coat of Mod Podge to work as a sealant.