Create Beautifully Textured Vases With A Cornstarch Paint Hack

Vases aren't just practical vessels for holding flowers; they can also be art pieces in their own right. You don't have to spend a lot of money to get a stunning and unique vase, though. You can DIY one using a plain thrift store vase, or something like this clear glass vase. Using a clever hack of mixing cornstarch and acrylic paint, you can even give your vase the distinctive textured appearance usually associated with older artworks, creating a stunning statement piece.

There are several ways to add texture to paint, including the popular TikTok hack of upgrading vases using a mixture of baking soda and paint. Unlike the baking soda method, which will create a rustic vase perfect for displaying fall flowers, cornstarch encourages the paint to chip and cup, giving the impression the paint is aged. While the process isn't difficult, you will need a few things, including paintbrushes, cornstarch, acrylic paint, a hair dryer, a sponge, and matte varnish.

To begin creating your textured vase, first wash and dry the vase you plan to use, using dish soap to remove any dirt or residue. Then, mix 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part acrylic paint and stir well. While it is up to you what color paint to use, whites, creams, and browns all make excellent base colors for this project. You can then paint this mixture onto your vase and dry it with a blow dryer. This should cause the paint to crack and curl. 

Then, you're ready to sponge acrylic paint that has been diluted in water onto the vase. Metallic colors can work well for this. This step can then be repeated with other shades depending on the look you are hoping to achieve; using a slightly deeper shade of your previous paint wash will help to add depth. Once you've applied the paint washes, wipe off any excess with a dry sponge or a paper towel. After that, you're ready to seal the paint with your varnish. To spruce up this DIY, consider adding floral embellishments to the vase, or even painting the cracks different colors for a truly unique piece. Once everything is dry, you can find creative ways to decorate your home with your vase.