How to Tint Bottles and Jars

Co-authored by Florisa-Leila Ramos

Last Updated: November 11, 2024 Approved

Using any glass bottle or jar, you can create gorgeous tinted containers that will look delightful sitting in front of a sunny window, sheltering a glowing candle or holding a bushel of flowers. All you need are some ready-to-recycle jars and bottles, food coloring and basic supplies.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Preparation

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It helps to have an idea for how you’d like to use the bottles or jars when choosing them. For example, are you looking to create a fancy vase or do you just want a decorative jar on display?
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Remove the jar or bottle label and wash it thoroughly. Soak the glass jar or bottle in warm soapy water to remove the label and then wash the bottle or jar inside and out.
- Rinse with clean water and dry. You may want to allow the jar/bottle to air dry especially if you are working with a narrow bottle. Don’t start your project until the bottle/jar is completely dry.
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You'll need several bottles of food coloring as you will need to immerse the glass in plenty of coloring in order to obtain a more vibrant tint. Check "Things You'll Need" below for the remaining items needed to complete this project.^{[1]
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You will need quick access to water and a place to pour out the solution. Cover the area with newspaper in order to avoid staining the work surface or countertops with food coloring.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Tinting the Glass Bottles and Jars

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The exact amount will vary depending on the size of the jar or bottle you're tinting.
This may require more than one bottle of food coloring.
Make sure the food coloring is well absorbed into the entire solution.^{[2]
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Cover the entire bottle or jar sides and base before returning the color back to the measuring cup.^{[3]
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Stand the jar or bottle upside down on top of the plate. Wait several minutes for the bottle or jar to drain before standing it upright.^{[4]
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You want the color to return to the bottom of the bottle or jar before you solidify the color.
Place the set jar or bottle in the oven on the bottom rack at 170ºF/77ºC (or the lowest possible temperature) and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the bottle or jar is dry and transparent.^{[5]
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Use hot pads to remove the gummy substance that congregates along the top of the glass.
Place on display. The jars are particularly striking when a candle is lit inside them (a bottle is usually a bit too narrow).

Community Q&A

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Question

When I place the pieces in the oven, the solution runs down the sides, causing streaks. How do I prevent this?

Community Answer

You are supposed to tip it upside-down after coating it with paint (step five) until it drains. Then stand it upright for a while until all the remaining paint has settled at the bottom of the jar. The streaking will not be a problem then.

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Question

Is there an easier way than using watered down PVA glue?

Community Answer

Glass paint works.

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Question

Can I use acrylic color instead of food color?

Community Answer

Acrylic is a water-based color medium. While it will blend very well into the mod podge, it doesn't actually "stain" as much as the food dye. It also might melt or dissolve when washed.

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Tips

For darker colored bottles, repeat the process after you’ve baked the jar or bottle once it’s cooled.

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The color will come off of the bottle or jar if soaked in hot soapy water, so keep that in mind during use.

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Things You'll Need

Glass bottles and/or jars
Soapy water and cleaning cloth
Mod Podge
Food coloring
Pourable measuring cup (for mixing and pouring the solution into the jars or bottles)
Paper plate and aluminum foil (used as a draining station for the bottle/jar)